The preparation for the forthcoming season began as soon as the previous one ended. The lorry went back for maintenance work as there is nothing worse than finding out something isn’t working just before an event – prevention is much better than cure in this case! This lead to a very quiet October and November due to no wheels, then there wasn’t much to choose from in December as it seems the last two winters meant fewer activities on offer.

In terms of horse preparation, Mop spent a couple of months in the Borders as there are far more opportunities to get young horses out than there are locally. He still has some growing and filling out to do but so far he seems to have a super attitude to his work. Rod has been given the all clear to return to work which is great news as his future was looking fairly bleak in October. He will be back eventing this year along with J so I will have two advanced horses to run. I have been concentrating on building a partnership with Molly and she has matured and strengthened up a lot over the winter. Zak has enjoyed a short holiday and is as enthusiastic as ever about his work.

I have been very busy teaching as people are keen to make use of the indoor school. The diary is already filling up with clients getting set for the start of the season. With horses finding this winter’s unusual weather patterns difficult to thrive on, these sessions are focused as much on riding as feeding and horse management.

I have organised for Markus Bauer to come to the yard to do some dressage clinics on the 28th February, 20th March and 4th April. There may be some limited spaces available so if anyone is interested please get in touch as they are filling up fast.

First outing for four horses tomorrow at Les Smith’s Arena Event. Velcro breeches may be required!

27 BE points, double clear at intermediate. Placed at Newcomers BS in limited outings.

Perfect horse with untapped potential for competitive show jump rider as effortless scope at 1.20m (BE intermediate) and the ability to go much further in this discipline.

Only for sale as a horse with this much jump is wasted on an eventer!

POA

This time I have included published articles and a For Sale page.

The end of the season is fast approaching, lets hope for a less disruptive winter than last year!

Advanced ex racehorse by Deroulede out of Buckskin mare. Produced to advanced level, twice placed top 10 at 3 star and winning a Young Rider Gold medal en route. Now semi retired.

Advanced pony cross of unknown breeding. Came from Ireland as a novice in 2002. Has represented Scotland at the JRN championships and on three Home International teams at Blair Castle. Now retired to his previous owner in Ireland.

Irish Sports Horse produced to Novice level from 4 years old. Sold to pony club home 2010 and has been successful in team and individual competitions.

Irish thoroughbred produced to pre novice from three years old. Sold in 2011 as a quality all-rounder.

Ex-racehorse by Lord of Appeal. Retrained on behalf of owner to compete to novice level and win at pre novice. Sold as schoolmaster.

Stable name: Rod
Born 2000

Advanced thoroughbred by Accondy out of racing mare. Co-owned with his breeder Rhona Elliot. Produced from pre novice.

Notable results:
2010 1st Eglinton OI
2007 Arena Event Champion, Scottish Points Champion, 3rd first 1* Blair Horse Trials

Advanced Irish Sports horse by Cavalier Two For Joy out of Skyboy mare. Produced from 4 years old.

Notable results:
2010 Scottish Intermediate Champion, 7th Burgie 2*
2009 1st Scone Intermediate