Wednesday turned out to be a pretty mellow and relaxing day. Muzz and I slept in (divine) then made our way over to the show in the afternoon, hung out, did some shopping, and eventually I had a lesson later in the afternoon. It was nice to hang out at the show and enjoy watching the other contestants, you really do learn so much just from observing other riders compete with their horses. In the evening, we had the chance to meet up with our old friends, the Rutenbeck's. They have a daughter a year younger than me...she just graduated from high school and I couldn't believe how much she had grown! crazy how time flies!! it was so good to see them and catch up!
Wednesday night, I had a little trouble sleeping. I had all sorts of emotions. not only was i crazy excited but nervous and scared all at the same time. I woke up at 5:15 in order to get to breakfast with the team at 6. We made our way over to the show, where I had a quick lesson in the morning before getting ready to show. Storm was a happy camper in my first class and quite relaxed. I had about 14 other riders (HUGE) in the ring with me and they were all super tough competitors. I was proud of storm for doing his job. We put up a fair fight but didn't make it into the top 5...I was okay with that and felt confident for my next class...I was ready to rock it.
(at this show there is no placings...they first pick your top 5, then your champion and reserve.. if you make it into top 5, you are golden)
In the afternoon, I had my 18-44 Select Rider Championship western pleasure class...I was a little nervous going in...my hand was shaking, but you couldn't tell because the huge grin on my face made up for it. I had a huge adrenaline rush but just as always, Storm took care of me. I was elated to take top 5 in that class and was beaming with the biggest smile you have ever seen (pictures coming soon)
My one goal for this show, among many others, was to get a Top 5. just one top 5 and I would be a happy girl. HOLLA!!
I made it happen with the help of my trainers, parents, friends, horse, and determination. THANK YOU TO ALL!!!
After my select rider class, I was exhausted. I was a little unsure of how I was going to make it to one more class later that evening. I took a quick nap at the hotel, had some dinner, and back to the show I went.
Storm and I were both tired, but we made our way threw the class and did well. We had a couple of mistakes, but overall I was happy with my ride (ok, that's a lie. i was a little bummed at first but got over it after realizing just how much I had accomplished)
I didn't make a top 5 but ended on a good note.
I am so grateful for this experience and the amount of time that loved ones around me have spent to make this happen. I still have a lot of work to do to become a better competitor and rider but know that it's a constant learning experience and with every show, I will only gain more knowledge & confidence. Storm was such a trooper and he brings me so much joy. He is the sweetest and such a noble steed...I really couldn't have been blessed with a better horse.
As for the rest of my vacation, I will enjoy shopping at Cherry Creek Mall with muzz tomorrow, a little pool time, hanging out at the show and finally making my way home on saturday night {yay}
I am missing my friends, a certain boy, my bed, bambi, my dogs etc A LOT
I am ready to return to the great state of utah
Good luck to the rest of the PRC team!!! So far everyone has done really well! 3 champions, a couple reserves, and everyone has made at least one if not two, top fives!!
xoxox
{L}
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