Hi there.
On Wednesday we ventured off to a show that I had not been to before, called the Jays. Is not too far away either. It took just over an hour. I am starting to think how fortunate we are at Pentonville Lodge to be so close to so many centers, all of which have very good surfaces.
This one was the best surface so far, absolutely perfect for raining bad conditions. The surface had a sight gradient so the water rolled off it nicely.
When we arrived we were to early (for a change), so I phoned the secretary who was most unhelpful and said she had no clue when to arrive for my class as it was too early, honestly what nonsense ! you would think if they ran a show week in week out they could give you a clue. Anyway she said something like 40 minutes a class so it sounded like we needed to hurry up.
Its not the most glamorous place but very acceptable. I liked the way the lorry park attendant had multiple jobs, like secretary and making the food in the tiny burger bar. I felt like saying “haven’t i seen you somewhere before”.
The jumping was OK, strange short distances or very forward, OK for Sabbers, not sure about the rest. However they all jumped a double clear each, but due to the lack of entries I could only put one horse in each class.
I was 4th on Vanilla in the newcomers but they announced that as I left the arena, then later decided not to place beyond 3rd, how disappointing. Rocky and Romeo went clear/ Rocky super sharp and Romeo super spooky. I cant say I particularly enjoyed their rounds, although Romeo settled down and ended up quite nice.
They had a 13.0 to run Sabbers round although I thought it was quite strong. I mean the jump off looked huge, but nothing for her, but I was glad I was not on the others. She jumped a fantastic double clear. I would have won it as there were few clears and the lad who went clear went clear on all 3 of his, well he is a professional rider with international horses warming up for Hickstead. But he wasn’t going for speed. I made a mistake of going round the timer. I thought I had to. When I watched him he went inside it, it took seconds off my time, even though everywhere else I was quicker, sigh. So at the end I came 3rd after him, and guess what, they decided to only place to 2nd. Good Lord, I am not lucky at the moment.
So its official, I must go faster, so I am going back next week to win some classes. I did think they favoured their regulars though. I could tell there was a definite look of disappointment on the faces of the officials when I asked questions like; “as its pouring with rain would it be OK to wear my water-proofs” the secretary looked at me with a steely glare and said “we are very strict here” Lol. It was pissing down. I did laugh to myself, hat doesn’t put me off. I shall become a regular whether they like it or not !