In the Saddle: Derbyshire County Show fun
There's been a lot of groundwork practice leading up to this but no matter how foot perfect he goes at home you can't recreate the atmosphere at a show, especially such a big one.
We've been leading up from smaller local shows to prepare my yearling for this. This year I've taught him to load in a trailer, travel, bath, plait and trot up (OK, the trotting up definitely requires work still) so he's really doing well.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdMy husband and little girl wanted a break from competing so I went with my friend Claire in her gorgeous lorry. Sully hadn't ever loaded in a lorry and due to my twisty drive, we were going to have to load him out on the road. He'd never set foot on the road either - so it was all big stuff for a little lad to think about.
I needn't have worried. In typical Sully fashion he walked straight on and tucked into his haylage. I was thrilled. He traveled like a professional and was not phased by the nearly two hour trip. He even stood on the lorry whilst we went to find the ring.
I must admit in Claire's lorry I felt like a celebrity - it was beautiful and had a lounge, TV, kitchen and shower room.
Then when I got to the ring I was recognised by a few people from the British Appaloosa society which was great fun to catch up with like-minded fans of the breed.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdAs soon as we got into the ring, Sully fired up. He's no dope on a rope and was leaping about. I think he walked on two legs a few times but I'm getting very talented at holding onto him these days. He's a lively baby that's for sure.
We were placed third in the spotted class and I was very pleased. I might frame it! I love my spotty horse.