After a slow start to 2021 with the second lockdown in full swing, it now seems at last we are coming out the other side. The vaccine is being rolled out to many across the UK and I expect like me, you are all itching to get out and about with your horses again.
Almansor and I have been ticking along at home. We have been working on getting him out hacking, accompanied by my partner on his bicycle, as he struggles with his confidence outside of the arena.
In February, the beast from the east 2 plunged us into freezing temperatures and heavy snow. Almansor stayed warm and cosy on his huge bed of Bed-Down Excel.
In between lockdowns, Almansor has made an amazing come back to competition after a long recovery from multiple colic surgeries. Almansor and I have achieved some strong scores, winning more red rosettes to hang up in the tack room. We gained our qualification in November for the British Dressage Winter Regional Championships, which will hopefully take place when the lockdown is over. We had a great time at the MCI National Dressage Championships in October, catching up with friends (obeying social distancing rules).
Unfortunately, Almansor made up his own dressage moves but the judges found it very amusing!!!!
Almansor is looking forward to a slightly more laid-back life now, which means I am on the lookout for my next dancing partner!!
I am really looking forward to seeing/teaching all my lovely clients once the lockdown is over.
Looking ahead to the rest of the year, we have lots of exciting things planned, so watch this space!!!!
Laura Smith
