After our 20 hours on the road we arrived to Kentucky on October 4. Team Wind Chase a little weary but filled with anticipation. After a visit with Mom and Dad, a bit of unpacking, settling in the ponies and a good nights sleep, we were ready to take a drive. The Kentucky Horse Park is well known for its Rolex Course, and less known for the undeniable grand driving Hazzards. The Ponies felt good, the fall weather crisp and dry. The sun shining on our back - wow!
Dressage and Cones were scheduled on Friday. Braided and turned out in formal attire we had a very steady dressage test, and were one of the few to make time on the cones, with just 6 penalty points for my drivers errors. Ponies were super, I am finding it so much easier to rate their speed.
Marathon day started with a beautiful sunrise. We woke early and walked Hazards till the first competitor started section E. I was standing in first place by almost 20 points under our friend Sterling and his team of hackney Ponies and I wanted to remain there! My strategy was simple, stay focused, keep the ponies soft and steerable, add speed wherever possible. Our Teammate Evi would have her first shot at top stepping at an International caliber event. As backstepper, David would keep our shiny side up!
Our hardwork payed off. We had no penalties in Section A or D and kept moving along on Section E. The Hazards drove much nicer then I anticipated. It seems the bigger Hazards are easier to drive forward. I have conquered many of my hill fears too. Galloping up and down without to much worry :) Team Wind Chase pulled out the stops and had a good go!
The Kentucky Classic Awards lucheon was later in the afternoon. It was especially enjoyable since I could share my success with my Parents. We won the Intermediate Pony Team Division and also received our Year End Award from the ADS as National Intermediate Pony Team Champion. We received ribbons and 4 leather halters with award plates. I am so proud of the Ponies and thankful for wonderful Team-mates, family, friends, sponsors, and supporters. That evening we savoured the victory then started some packing to head South. I think the Kentucky winds may be turning from the North soon.
The Kentucky Classic is definitely one of the top shows of the year, terrific organizers, volunteers and sponsors. We will be back next year for the Pony National Championships! We can't wait!
See our video album from KY!