RSS feed http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A An RSS feed for 8pixel.net Blog engine EN <![CDATA[JANUARY]]>  

Due to Diana Henderson having a serious fall out hunting before Christmas, Beetle’s next task is a Hunter Chase with Diana’s daughter Camilla. I stepped up his canter work after qualifying him hunting, and now he’ll go to Charlie Longsdon’s over the road from us. I took him a few times to work on the gallops there with his string, then left him there the last time – new boy at school!
Before Christmas Lenny had a serious cut to his hock. It’s a very dangerous place to get such a wound, as infection to a joint can be deadly. He had a short spell in hospital, then came home for box rest. He’s been a model patient, and healed well............that is until grazing in hand he was startled, leapt, bucked and promptly fell over, opening the newly healed wound again – back to square one.
I had the most perfect day on my birthday. It went something like this...............had lie in until 7.30am, did yoga, favourite breakfast (mushroom, spinach and scrambled egg on bagel), Finn beautifully turned out when I got to the yard for an away day with the Ledbury, met some very friendly Ledbury people, jumped some big hedges, picked up one concussed field master, home and straight out to watch the premier of War Horse (only a 6 out of 10), 2 glasses of champagne, open presents, BED! BLISS!
An early season session with Pammy Hutton put us on song for some good results at two separate days of dressage (in one week – good effort!) at Solihull. Paddy and Tory feel much more like grownups now – all the hard work is beginning to pay off – we are producing something much closer to real dressage now!
We enjoyed the last ever point to point here at Heythrop with lots of runners, friends, and plenty of sampling from car boot picnics!
Paddy attended his first World Class Equine Pathway training session at Addington. We picked up a new exercise from Lizzie Murray to improve Paddy’s canter, and have plenty of homework to get on with. The jumping with Ken Clawson provided not only great focus for training at home, but also some fab exercises for my teaching. Double whammy.
To round up the month Martin has visited us to check and do some alterations to the saddles to have them in tip top shape for the season. It’s surprising how much horses and saddles can change during a year.
Event season only weeks away now..............................
]]> 2/2/2012 8:36:33 PM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=77 77 <![CDATA[DECEMBER]]>  

Cheryll’s little Rocky has a new home with Chrissie Downs in the North Cotswolds country – they both love their hunting so hopefully it’s a match made in heaven.
Millie and Dalida are getting to grips with some clear round jumping, while it’s time for those that have been on their hols to come back into work. They start with just 15 mins walking on the road, building up to nearly 2 hrs. It’s boring, but vital to strengthen their muscles and ligaments before faster and more strenuous work begins. It’s just as important to have them walking in a good outline and smartly up to the contact, as this develops the topline muscles in preparation for the school work and gives a good foundation for the season ahead.
Paddy has received a letter from British Eventing HQ informing him of his inclusion on the World Class Equine Pathway. He was very proud (and so was his mother!). As he wasn’t quite fit enough to attend the December training sessions, I went on foot to assist Yogi and checkout the format. It is great to witness coaching from a different viewpoint – it certainly gave me things to think about and practice. The message was most definitely of a disciplined approach to your training particularly in the off season.
Imogen and Adrian enjoyed a day at Olympia for their birthday’s which, were both just before Christmas. They navigated their way round town, just managing to catch the last train home.
I’ve been lucky enough to get a good few days in hunting in this month, squeezing in as many as possible over Christmas. With staff holidays to cover it’s been a bit hectic, but we’ve handled it. It’s now down to the serious stuff in preparation for next season. We’ve got a great team of horses, and hopefully we can start to reap the benefit of the work that has gone into them previously. HAPPY NEW YEAR!...................looking forward to an exciting 2012!
]]> 2/1/2012 5:01:11 PM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=74 74 <![CDATA[NOVEMBER]]> A last minute (booked the night before!) holiday to the Maldives was a welcome break at the beginning of the month. Unfortunately it rained every day! Never the less it was good to have a rest.

My good friend Cheryll has sent her little horse Rocky to me to sell, so I’ve had a couple of days hunting on him. It’s such a dream to ride something so easy that doesn’t pull. He also has the role of chief nanny to the next lot of babies – Millie and Dalida on their clear round jumping trips. So far they have been impeccably well behaved, and are learning what it’s all about. I like to start youngster’s first outings with jumping shows, as when they are a bit over excited it is hard for them to focus in a dressage arena. The jumps give them something to concentrate on. At a later stage when they are well used to a show atmosphere they do a series of dressage shows to get to grips with that phase, before the XC schooling begins in the Spring.
I’ve enjoyed some great days hunting on Finn too. Diana has either Alfie or Beetle, and armed with a pocket full of snacks and a thermos for later, we set off for a day tearing around either the Warwickshire or Heythrop countryside. It’s great to go with someone else, especially a good jockey like Diana. Unfortunately she had a tip up on our first day out, and got briefly knocked out. We laugh now how she asked the same question over and over again when she came round, but the serious side is that it’s necessary for a hat change. All hats should be changed after a fall. With Tracey (Moomin) falling out hunting and breaking her ribs too, and Imogen fracturing her fingers while we were in Holland, we are getting a bit of a reputation at the local A and E............
This time of year I can devote more time to teaching. I love to help clients, and seeing them progress week on week is very rewarding.
My other preoccupation this time of year is STRICTLY!!!! If I watch no other television all year I wouldn’t care – I just love that show! Woe betide anything / one that gets in the way of my Saturday nights..................!
]]> 11/28/2011 8:38:30 AM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=72 72 <![CDATA[OCTOBER]]> Back to back events are never easy to pull off smoothly, and require military standard organisation. A foreign 3DE straight from the National Championships meant it was “watches to 0600 hours....!” With the help of a lot of coffees and a packet of Starmix we finally got to Boekelo 16hrs later. This is the event everyone wants to go to and just to be selected to go is an achievement. The stabling is first class, and the atmosphere is one of an end of season party. It wasn’t to be our competition though. With some trouble at the first trot-up (all the travelling and stabling not being helpful for Archie), and a suspected colic episode, I wasn’t entirely happy that Archie was on top form. A blood test revealed raised enzyme levels and there would be a real risk that Archie could tie up on the XC. Utterly deflated we came home having only completed the dressage. It’s back to the drawing board and a re think as to what we can expect from Archie next season at 16yrs. All the eventers are now going to have a holiday until December, at which point they will start walking on the roads to build up their fitness for schooling in preparation for the next season.

Beetle has returned with his friend Alfie. Belonging to Diana Henderson, they are both ex-racehorses and are here for the hunting season. Finn is fit and ready too, so I’m looking forward to getting the opportunity to get out and have a bit of fun this winter. It’s what keeps me going through the miserable weather.

Millie (a 5 year old by the same sire as Paddy), and Dalida (our broodmare) have come into work and are progressing well with their training for next season. I do enjoy bringing on young horses, but it does rather feel like I’m right back at the beginning of a long road again..................and so the cycle continues.........................

]]> 11/27/2011 6:53:49 PM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=70 70 <![CDATA[SEPTEMBER]]> It was congratulations and also goodbye to Lucy at the end of last month – she is to become a mother. We wish her the best of luck with her new path.

Lenny and Tory had previously qualified for the summer dressage championships at Addington, so we made good use of the extra practise in the championship atmosphere. Lenny just about contained his nerves, and Tory did a good test for 2nd. All important mileage under their belts at this stage.
Archie and myself found ourselves on the waitlist for Blenheim this time due to massive entries from nations trying to qualify for the Olympics. We made the decision to run at Ballindenisk in Ireland instead, which had the added attraction of a CCI* for Paddy’s first 3DE. So in gale force winds off we set for a ferry crossing from Pembroke to Rosslare, instead of the nice easy 20mins down the road to Blenheim...........It turned out to be a bit of a nightmare road trip as we found there would be no crossings for horses on our booked route, and we would have to hot foot it to Holyhead to catch the Dublin crossing. We made it 2 mins too late............the next ferry would be 7hrs later, so we just waited............and waited...........we were lucky to get the boys (Archie – team leader, Paddy – boy scout, and Lenny – special needs!) out on a patch of grass for a much needed wee and short graze. They were incredibly well behaved considering the high winds and surrounding chaos at the docks. Unfortunately our wait was in vain – 20mins before departure time we were informed the captain thought it was too rough for horses to sail. All we could do was to find local stabling for a few hours, and return at 1am. We arrived at Ballindenisk, near Cork at 9am a bit bleary eyed. The team there couldn’t have been more helpful, bending over backwards to accommodate any of the competitors needs. Lenny the found the high winds and flapping stable roof a nerve racking experience, but after a few days settled down and enjoyed the extra attention the stable life brought.
Archie did a reasonable test to be midfield, but Paddy’s dressage has come on massively since the start of the season, producing a level test to put him nicely in touch. XC was one to forget for Archie and myself. After quite a delay to starting, he set off like a dose of salts, misunderstanding where to jump at the 3rd fence, a skinny box, hitting it hard and unseating me. No excuses – I should have set him up more for the fence. I wasn’t the only one to be angry at my mistake – Archie was LIVID! The next day he was seriously agitated at taking no further part in the competition. It was desperately disappointing as the course was fantastic with great going and the following days SJ track was tough which would have suited us.
Paddy made up for matters though by jumping a super round XC and pulling out all the stops for a clear under pressure in deep going for the SJ. This elevated him to 4th place – an excellent achievement in his first International 3DE.
A few days later we were at Moreton Morrell for the 5y.old’s first Novice. Both put up good dressage performances for their stage of training and both did the most fantastic double clears inside the time. Tory was 8th earning her first point, and Lenny was 2nd and thus qualified for next year’s Novice Regional Final.   Better results than we could have hoped for – I’m a very proud mother!

Their next outing was the National Breeding Championships along with Paddy who’d qualified for the 6 year old National Championships. All 3 did a good test for their current level of education, and all 3 did stunning SJ clears. Three more clears XC inside the time ended a good weekend with my potential stars finishing on their dressage scores, just outside the rosettes. It’s a great feeling to have produced these youngsters to this level, and I look forward to getting some training in this winter to progress them further.

]]> 11/26/2011 6:11:41 PM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=68 68 <![CDATA[AUGUST]]> August is always a mega, jam-packed month. This is what we got up to:-

Homme House  Lenny and Tory contested the 5y.o. qualifier. Both did reasonable tests, but Lenny was rather over excited in his showjumping and had an uncharacteristic 2 down. He obviously couldn’t wait for the XC – he thoroughly enjoyed his gallop round. He ended up 9th with Tory in 4th. It was Paddy’s day though. He jumped a fantastic double clear with a very fast XC which brought him the red rosette once again! He won a massive bottle of Perry cider!
Gatcombe  Archie turned in a very level test for a personal best in an Advanced – 33. A misunderstanding in the SJ led to a pole down which was really annoying. He was so on it XC. After negotiating the tricky angled houses early on, I knew we were in to a good round. He had one of the fastest rounds of the day to finish 8th. It was great to achieve a good result over a tough course and in very good company.
Aston le Walls  back out competing a few days later, and Paddy’s pole down in the SJ proved costly, but he showed his class XC jumping a top end difficulty course like it was something he did every day – a fabulous feeling. He ended up 9th. Tory had her 1st fence down ever in competition – my fault for allowing her to approach unbalanced. It felt a bit like having points on a clean driving licence! Lenny seems to be beginning to know what to do in the dressage and is relaxing a bit. He jumped a double clear in the PN to be 7th.
My good friend Cheryll came to mine for a holiday, bringing her horse with her. She ended up having training, taking shopping trips, and cleaning my house! Another glutton for punishment in their holiday time was Emma Wilkinson (daughter of the famous Martin!). In a rather intensive 2 days Emma was brilliant at taking on new concepts, her two lovely horses making big advances.
Solihull  with little rain and baked ground everywhere, I was uncertain about running the two 5y.o’s, but the ground staff at this event pulled out all the stops even watering the outdoor surface. Tory and Lenny performed superbly in all phases. Lenny finished on a score of 21.5  which put him in equal lead, but because of the 1 second faster he went cross country, he had to relinquish his first win. We didn’t mind though, as his 2nd place qualified him for the National Breeding Championships. Tory was 3rd to him and also qualified.

Some dressage training was next with Pammy at Talland. I always find it ups my game. To follow this up Paddy and Archie went to Hunters for a special “eventer’s dressage” day where they both practised their FEI 3DE tests. Archie did a very respectable test in good company, while Paddy was the turn up for the books – he won a large class. It’s taken a very long time for him to grasp the dressage concept, but it’s great when the hard work pays off. A session at Roland Fernyhough’s for jump training with all 4 horses rounded off the month on a good note. Bring on the 3DE’s...............

]]> 11/26/2011 4:21:47 PM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=65 65 <![CDATA[JUNE]]>  

We are all delighted Lucy has joined us in the full time role of Senior Groom. It’s a very important position in an event yard – she will become my right hand man and will take much of the responsibility of the care of the horses and assist in the smooth running of the whole operation.
After the babies successful fist outing at Berriewood, I thought a bit of dressage practice would be useful, so off we went for 6 tests at Onley. Lenny proved the star pupil on this occasion winning both his tests. He’s suddenly got what all the trotting around in a white box is about....................!
Our next event would be Great Tew – our local and one of my favourites. Not only did we have all 4 horses running on the Saturday, but we welcomed owners to stay, had 5 horses staying overnight for the competition, and of course we were staging the now “world famous” (!) owners and sponsors BBQ on the Sunday. Lenny kicked off with a bit of a tense dressage test 9i should have rode him there to take the edge off!), but jumped a stunning double clear for 9th place. Tory had the misfortune we think of being stung just before going in for her test. She bucked and kicked out all the way around the arena before the bell was rung. We carried on with the test, but something was clearly not right. Luckily Kathryn our physio was on hand, and after treating her for tightness in her groin, she seemed to jump well, so we carried on. She jumped a lovely double clear, really enjoying her XC. Moomin did a nice test, gave the show jumps plenty of air, but unfortunately went round the XC in a torrential rain storm. This didn’t help the steering from the bank to the skinny, and he sailed past it which was gutting, especially for his owners who were getting soaked waiting for their champion to jump round. That’s horses however – back to the drawing board to sort the steering.
Lots said we’d never do it............some said we were mad to try it............, but we did it because WE ARE BRITISH! Our BBQ for Owners, Sponsors and all who play a part in the yard went ahead in non-stop torrential rain. This was undoubtedly only due to Rosemary and Martin who saved the day with their gazebo which allowed us to BBQ and prepare the food alongside the lorry. A jolly, if soggy time was had by 35 plus die-hard guests.
Richard and I managed to get away for 5 days the following week. It was much needed as since Berriewood I’d been struggling with a nasty virus I just couldn’t shake off. A bit of sun was just the ticket after being drenched so many times recently.
We’ve been to our locally gallops quite a bit recently as the ground is still pretty hard. It’s great to get the fitness work into the horses without jarring up their legs, and they are all starting to look a lot tighter and fitter.
CF went to Salperton to run in the AI. We deployed a different tactic for the dressage – lunging for 1/2hr before I got on to diffuse some of the tension, and it seemed to work. He tried pretty hard in his test, but his tongue out the whole time (his favourite trick), so of course that would lose him a lot of marks. Despite this it wasn’t a bad mark, so encouraging. Show jumping was a different matter. He complete lost his mind way before he went in – nerves making him very difficult to handle and ride. He had 4 down on what was a difficult enough course to jump anyway – it needed focus and concentration, neither of which CF was in the frame of mind for producing. It’s desperately disappointing as at BSJA shows he’s produced some really good rounds in big classes. We hadn’t planned to go XC, so it was back home to get ready for the following day at Milton Keynes.
In scorching weather Lenny and Tory did their 3rd event and behaved impeccably.   Lenny only got a bit fretful once in his dressage test when a bumble bee was sure to attack him. Otherwise double clears from both again, Tory in 6th, and Lenny in 8th. They are really understanding their job now, and it’s such a delight to take them to events and watch them progress.

At the end of the month a trip to Allenshill BSJA with Paddy and CF to sharpen their jumping skills proved time well spent. Both jumped double clears in the two classes they did, C.F. impressing in an up to height Foxhunter jump-off. He CAN do it- just not seemingly at an event!

]]> 7/26/2011 8:14:09 AM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=60 60 <![CDATA[JULY]]> Still not feeling right (the virus seemed to have re appeared), we went to Purston for the PN day with Tory, Lenny and Lucy with her horse Ballie. Lenny was a bit tense and tight in his test – it’s definitely time for him to “man up” a bit in this department! He jumped a stunning show jumping clear, but for his hesitation on at the step into the water he was awarded a stop. Without this he would have been comfortably placed. Tory tried hard in her test, jumped an immaculate clear, and was surprisingly fast XC to be placed 7th.

The next day I was feeling even more ill – severe headache and sinus pain. If it hadn’t been Paddy I was riding, who is now a bit more experienced at Novice level, I don’t think I would have been able to compete. Us event riders are made of tough stuff though, so I warmed up Paddy trying to keep focussed on his performance. He warmed in well, but got tense when approaching the arena. He tends to scurry along when like this. He did settle mid way through his test though. I was disappointed with a mark of 40, but he pulled it out the bag with fantastic jumping skills, being one of only a few inside the time. He finished 9th. Another double clear. Straight home to bed for me!
The next day I felt like a zombie, and it was all I could do to drag my sorry state to the doctors in the evening (after first attempting to ride Archie – not a wise move!). Complete rest (no chance) and antibiotics were prescribed for a sinus infection. The worry was the fact I was entered for Barbury CIC*** on the Thursday with Archie, and this was only Monday!   In the end we decided to go and do the dressage on the Thursday and see how I felt, hoping that the antibiotics would work their magic by the Sunday – show jumping and XC day. Archie loved the big atmosphere, “lifting” him while he was working in. In the tighter constraints of the arena he felt a bit “creaky”. He tried hard, but didn’t get a great mark. We returned on the Sunday and he produced a cracking show jumping round – inside a tight time, but just rolling a pole when he was dazzled by the white railings and white poles of an oxer merging into one. By the time I got down to the XC start there was quite a fuss going on with riders refusing to start.  This was due to an extraordinary amount of fallers at the water, with both horse ambulances off the course simultaneously, causing a half an hour wait for their return. Eventually after restarting and another horse falling, the ground jury took the fence out. I believe this was the right decision not just for horse welfare, but as much for the sake of the public image of the sport. There were a lot of spectators on the course that had come from the county show, and were witnessing horse trials for the first time. Archie was warmed up 4 times in total, having to stop each time the course was held. Luckily the start of Barbury’s course is down the gallops which is really great to get you started and in the flow. He jumped beautifully, and was a dream through the technical combinations. He’s such a special horse and I owe him so much. Our dressage mark held us well back; otherwise he had a very respectable performance in world class company.
Upton was our next event a few days later. Tory and Lenny were entered in the 5y.o. national championship qualifier. They both did a good effort in the dressage, surprising me with their marks amongst some classy young competition. They both jumped clear show jumping, and both came inside a tight XC time clear to finish 6th and 7th. Not bad in such a hot class. We tried to allow Paddy a bit more time around the arena before entering to settle him. It seemed to work – curing his stage fright. He scored 31.5. He was really up for it in the jumping phases. He jumped a great clear show jumping, and gave me the best feeling XC yet – like I could totally trust him over the undulations and skinnies. He came in just  1 second over the optimum time, winning his first class. I felt he deserved it, as at only his third Novice he was in the lead, and I took him slowly to gain experience.
As Archie was feeling the ground a bit at Barbury we decided not to run him at Aston le Walls Advanced. Paddy went alone for the Novice. The 4am start was made worthwhile by him doing a focussed test, a fabulous show jumping round over thin flimsy poles, and the fastest time of the day XC. Again he made light work of the skinnies into and out of the water – as bold and straight as a horse twice his experience. He held the lead for a long time, eventually being pipped to the post by a 23.5 dressage – fair enough! I’ve booked some training with Pammy at Talland to see if we can sort that!
]]> 7/24/2011 7:39:00 PM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=62 62 <![CDATA[MAY]]>  

Archie is back! With he ground being so hard it was pretty much impossible to go XC schooling (other than to walk over some ditches and splash through some water), so I wondered how he’d cope at his first event for a year – Hambleden OI. Thankfully the ground was superb due to extensive watering, and following an over excited dressage test and a show jumping round squealing with delight, Arch produced the goods XC. I’d entered as a precursor to Chatsworth, which was only one week after, so we went into overdrive on his return with Archie receiving physio, massage, acupuncture and shockwave treatments, all to hopefully help him recover quickly. A charmed life eh?
Paddy ran in a Novice at Aston le Walls late on the evening before Chatsworth. Luckily it is a local event for us, and the team were very organised to turn the lorry around immediately as it arrived back to the yard. He did a good test and another double clear, just going steady across country, but learning all about owl holes, water complexes and sunken roads.
Chatsworth is a really lovely event and we stay with a fantastic host, Dee McKenna, who lives just 30 mins away. Getting the lorry on the correct trajectory for the tiny bridge into her village is critical and quite an art! It requires a few shunts across a main road on a blind bend. Even then it is a case of less than an inch either side, but no paintwork was harmed, just a little bit of perspiration from me...! Imogen has added another string to her bow – traffic control. Now you don’t get that at equine college................
Archie did an obedient test, but was feeling the firm ground. He jumped the tricky Advanced show jumping in the main arena really well with just a pole down that was my mistake – watching too many people at the bogey fence isn’t always a good idea. He went brilliantly round the XC. I feel so lucky to ride such an amazingly straightforward and intelligent horse. We will pick his events carefully to try and give him the best going. Now it just needs to rain..............a lot.
After Chatsworth we had a very busy time with four competitions back to back from Thursday through to Sunday. Weston Lawns BSJA was first with 5 horses to jump, followed by Brigstock where Moomin (our latest arrival owned by Phil and Tracy Meeking) did his first PN. He did a double clear, and ended up 8th after 5 horses tied on the same score. Paddy had a fence down in the Novice (rider over riding!) which dropped him from 8th to 19th – seriously competitive sections. I had 3 other horses to work there before driving home and repacking the lorry for dressage the following day. Four tests and C.F. to work in the competition “atmosphere” at Addington on the Saturday, then home to teach and more repacking of the lorry for our return to Brigstock on the Sunday. C.F. managed to control his nerves in the dressage (I should think so after 4 days at competitions!), and started his show jumping round well, but then jumped into a combination too big leaving himself little room to jump cleanly out. Having a rail down upset him, and two more followed. We’ve been trying different brakes for the XC, so a steady clear round was what we went for. I’m still not convinced though that we’ve found the right bit. I’m currently trawling the internet..................
The last weekend of the month was one for the babies – Lenny and Tory competing in their first BE event, along with Moomin, at Berriewood. All did us proud, each coming home with a rosette from the PN. I was particularly pleased with Tory’s XC round – focussed and accurate. She’s showing a competitive nature. The ground hasn’t softened up, so it’s a real dilemma when making entries for babies with young limbs, or older horses with older legs.   I’m hoping the weather will change and we’ll get a good amount of rain. It’ll probably be a monsoon next, with all events cancelled – are we never happy?!
]]> 6/9/2011 8:34:16 PM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=58 58 <![CDATA[APRIL]]> Paddy made the step up to Novice at Goring. He actually got a really good mark in the dressage (despite squealing and putting in a buck!), but babyness in the show jumping led to 2 poles down, in otherwise an excellent round. The XC was the most technical Novice course I’d seen in years – nearly 75% seemed to be skinnies, and every combination (and there were lots) involved a skinny. Thank goodness he’s pretty well versed in them. He did a fantastic clear and ended up just out the placings, the show jumps putting paid to a rosette at his first attempt.

To this effect I decided he needed a bit more SJ practice so we took him and 4 others to Weston Lawns BSJA. They have 2 rings running simultaneously which means we can take novices and older horses, but means a hectic time for me! All jumped well, with Lenny particularly impressing showing a love for the job.
Sapey Novice was next stop for Paddy. The show jumping practice had really done the trick – he jumped a stunning clear. The XC was again quite stiff, but educational. He managed a clear and although a little green, was very genuine. He finished 8th and gained his first point for a double clear!
Adria has joined the team from Spain. With his bright and positive disposition he keeps us all up beat and entertained, plus since he’s arrived it’s been the most glorious weather! Imogen joins us this month too. She’s gaining a lot of experience – fast. 
I’ve been feeling a bit rough for a while, and decided if I was a horse it would be time to get the vet in for a blood test. Two trips to the doctor, and plenty of blood given over, and it seems that I’ve been way over doing it. We’ve had such a busy start to the season that it’s easy to forget that my fitness is a crucial part of the operation. A lot more early nights coming up!
Georgie got on really well at Badminton. They had great weather and a lovely time, just an inattentive stop on the XC marring otherwise a great experience for her.
I managed to get to Badminton both Saturday and Sunday. Lucy and Adrian both got the opportunity to come along too. We had a lovely lunch in the Mitsubishi hospitality tent which really added to a fantastic outing. It was of course important to walk the course. It seemed largely unchanged, so I’d expect to see some differences next year. Horses did appear to finish very tired, most likely due to the high temperature.
They said I was crazy – I had entered Finn for an “all comers” race at the North Cotswold point to point. This entailed keeping him up and fit for longer, as well as hiring gallops and schooling over chase fences. The big day dawned, and when walking the course I thought what an amazing job the team had done on the ground there in such dry conditions. It really put to shame some of our event courses. Although I had worked with point to pointers in my youth, I’ve never race ridden, so I was going in to the unknown a bit. I needn’t have worried. Finn was a complete athlete – nimble, quick and clever at dodging the (many) fallers. We were first past the post, but placings were awarded on an optimum time, and we were way too fast! Anyhow, Lucy won the turn out prize so we didn’t leave empty handed.
Paddy finished the month at Withington Novice. He focussed really well in the dressage arena, and with a cracking clear was in the lead. I opted for a couple of slower routes XC as his experience didn’t extend yet to some of the asks out on a very tough course, but despite a few time faults, he still came 10th and had a very educational run. At this stage in his career it is all about learning and building his experience for the future. My slow developer is starting to show a bit of talent...............
]]> 6/6/2011 4:51:20 PM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=56 56 <![CDATA[MARCH]]>  

Beetle, Lenny and Andy have kicked of the season with the unaffiliated Intro at Aston le Walls. Lenny was quite nervous in the dressage (he couldn’t work out when the hounds would be arriving.......), but jumped a stunning double clear – so genuine. Beetle tried hard in the dressage, show jumped really well, but was inexperienced at the water (we were short of XC schooling due to the extremely wet weather) and had a stop. Understandable really. Andy felt so straight forward after two wobbly first timers, doing a beautiful test and a double clear to win. I have (unfortunately) handed the ride back to Georgie now as she prepares for the Grassroots final at Badminton. 
I had a shocking phone call on the Monday morning to say my Warwickshire hunting friend Jo Rugman, had died team chasing. She was such a great jockey, keen hunting person, and wonderful mum to her children. It’s hard to believe she’s not here anymore. A very sad time.
We had two valiant ladies stay with us for a night. Andrea and Ella have organised routes riding from John O’Groats to Lands End through the hunting countries, borrowing horses along the way. We didn’t have suitable horse power for them, but could at least give them fish and chips and a hot shower!
Paddy had his first outing of the season in a PN at Swalcliffe. His dressage has really come on not only in strength and ability, but concentration. He scored well, squealed with delight in the show jumping, and did the most smooth and classy round XC to finish 2nd. I feel he is ready for a Novice now, so on we go on the learning curve!
C.F. has returned to competition as fit and well as ever. His show jumping and dressage have really improved, but unfortunately the occasion of being back at an event after nearly 18 months went to his head. He completely lost his mind at Gatcombe, resulting in not exactly showing his connections the improvement he’d made at home. HORSES! Guaranteed to make you out to be liars!
My teaching commitments have gone mad this month. It often gets busy as people prepare for early season events. Lucy has joined us in a part time capacity and works two mornings a week in return for training. It’s great to watch the progress her and Ballie have made in, as yet, only a few lessons. Clare is leaving us to freelance at the end of the month, and so the hunt for the new super groom is on............................................
]]> 5/7/2011 3:53:07 PM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=54 54 <![CDATA[FEBRUARY]]>  

The young horses are progressing well with their dressage. Paddy is even becoming quite proficient at Novice level – very promising for the forthcoming season. I decided to combine a full day of dressage with a bit of “bling” from a different sphere by driving on to the NEC just down the road for the “Strictly come Dancing” live tour. Cheryll had bought tickets – a wonderful treat and a fantastic night for us two groupies!
Antoine has finished his month with us. I am sure he has done nothing but sleep since he’s been home...............
Lenny got the call up at the last minute to do his duty and go gateshutting with the Warwickshire. Well it just so happened that we didn’t shut so many gates as jump them! The young chap was up for the serious jumping day that it turned out to be. He really proved his scope and willingness over some decent hedges, all with ditches before or after. Never judge a book by it’s cover – he may just turn out to be a bit more than expected....................
This month I have been riding some of the young show horses at David Tatlow’s yard, as their usual jockey Lorraine, his daughter, is away in South Africa. It’s always interesting to see how other yards operate, and David’s years of experience has lead him to create a fantastic facility for breaking and training a variety of horses.
I was lucky enough to be invited by Martin to join his team at the BETA trade fair and then the awards dinner in the evening. It was really good to meet the whole together, discuss saddle preferences and trends, and to see some of the new models on the stands. The dinner was wonderful with a fantastic atmosphere. I thoroughly enjoyed myself – thank you Martin!
Rupert has gone home to Mum’s. It’s a little earlier than planned, but his knee is in good shape and Mum has an ideal set up where he can come straight out of his stable to a field full of luscious grass. When I lead him from the lorry I could just feel his happiness at being there – it really is perfect for him.
]]> 5/6/2011 9:43:33 AM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=51 51 <![CDATA[JANUARY]]> Antoine has joined us from France for 4 weeks work experience and to improve his English. He wants to join the French RAF and become a fighter pilot, so Lord knows how he ended up here! If nothing else the physical work will stand him in good stead for his basic solider training.  Considering he hasnt had much to do with horses before,he has learnt really quickly and does very smart beds for the horses!

Sam Head has made his 3rd trip to balance Archie’s feet. He’s pleased with the progress in only a few shoeings, so we hope along with meticulous management we’ll have a successful season.
I’ve managed a few days hunting this month. It’s what keeps me buzzing through the winter and really gets your blood up. It’s great for horses too. It can refresh a stale one, or give plenty of work to one that’s getting over the top.
I enjoyed a night away in London for my birthday mid-month. I had a seriously hard sports / Thai massage (the way I like it!) followed by dinner – heaven. On the Sunday I went to watch the Golden Button Ride, a hunt race over some of the Ledbury country’s most serious hedges. With some 40 odd riders going hell for leather, some may say it’s crazy, but I really do fancy a go. Finn reckons he’s up for it!
We are back out with the babies doing dressage again. It’s taken them a while to settle down - the weather not helping with gale force winds and freezing temperatures.  Conditions like this resulted in Tory completely losing her mind and all sense of self preservation whilst working in the school. She threw herself over backwards like a toddler having a tantrum in a supermarket. She did have a soft landing though – ME! I must have been knocked out because the first thing I saw was her in mid air over the school gate!
C.F. has had the all clear to continue with his training. He and Archie are currently doing a mixture of hacking, hill work, and flatwork training in the school. Hopefully they will go along to some of the outings with the babies just to work in the competition environment. Watch out for the big blue bus full of over-excited equines! Roll on Summer............................
]]> 2/7/2011 5:58:46 PM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=49 49 <![CDATA[DECEMBER]]>  

It’s been a pretty tough and frustrating month. Icy and frozen conditions have meant roadwork has been intermittent and quite risky at times. With the horses that are further on in their training programs we have managed to “tick along” using the small indoor school. It’s given us the opportunity to do some loose jumping which is fun for the horses and interesting for me to observe their natural instincts and abilities.
Two foot of snow fell on the Saturday before Christmas, which meant a great deal of carrying water, haylage and de-icing for nearly 2 weeks. With 19 horses in total to deal with it was quite a busy Christmas for Clare and myself (Luke was home for the holiday).
At times like this I wish I had a normal job! If you want to succeed professionally in the equine world you need masses of dedication, commitment and sheer hard graft – it certainly is a test of your passion...............something I look for in the interviewees we’ve seen over the holiday period. With so many horses we need someone to join the team for the upcoming season.
                                             
Between Christmas and New Year I brought Rupert back from Newmarket. The surgeon and support staff have done a magnificent job, and I hear he has been the subject of training sessions; his wound and subsequent radical operation being quite a case study. We will continue physiotherapy work with him until he hopefully will be able to be turned out in a restricted paddock in March or April.
Happy Christmas and here’s to a successful and fulfilling New Year!
]]> 2/7/2011 5:52:21 PM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=47 47 <![CDATA[NOVEMBER]]> We’ve had a new recruit to the team – Luke Downs, who has joined us as Junior Groom. Nothing is too much trouble for Luke when caring for the horses, and he’s a keen and dedicated member of staff.

                                                                 

Mark Slingsby our equine dentist has just completed his “check up” visit. It’s great to get any dentistry done this time of year, and Mark is very passionate about his work, so I know he’ll have the horse’s right in their mouths for ridden work and to make the best of their diets.
Archie has been visited by Sam Head, a specialist farrier, who has worked on tweaking the balance and loading of his feet. Horses competing at the top of the sport work towards the physical limits of their bodies, so like any other athlete, they need as much assistance as possible to keep them performing.
Lucinda Green and Karol Farnham’s Cry Freedom has returned after his lay off due to injury. He has already completed 6 weeks walking only on the road to gradually strengthen his limbs (thank you Lauren – it must have been a test at times!), and will now continue his return to fitness and training. We hope to run him in some OI’s and see how that goes before making plans for Advanced runs.
I tried to fight it, but it was no use – the ‘flu got me. To anyone else who tries to solider on – don’t. Take to your bed immediately and administer many drugs! I attempted to keep training (and even guinea pigged at Yogi Breisner’s re-training of racehorses demo), but I was finally beaten and ended up needing two courses of antibiotics for a serious lung infection. Back on the mend now though with a few “high octane” hunting days on Finn to clear out the pipes! He’s for sale to someone who appreciates a galloping and jumping machine.....................
The babies (Paddy, Tory and Lenny) have come on enormously through a concerted effort at dressage. The penny has certainly dropped for Paddy who previously struggled in this phase. We were all elated with a big improvement and more mature attitude in his final Novice test of the day at Solihull.   Disaster was to strike though, as while loading up to go home another horse lunged at him baring his teeth, and he shot backwards falling off the side of the ramp. Luckily were able to get a vet to attend to him straight away and stitch up a flap of skin to the outside of his off hind. It has healed well, but the inevitable bruising to the bone caused some calcification, and he has a bit of a bumpy leg. An X-ray confirmed this would settle in time, so he’s having a short break before starting work for the new season.
]]> 2/7/2011 5:45:44 PM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=45 45 <![CDATA[OCTOBER]]>  

The Breeding Championship’s move to the beautiful Osberton site obviously offended the Gods as there was torrential rain throughout the day. Four sets of clothes later and Gracey had completed a good dressage test, clear show jumping and had an annoying stop XC when she slipped on loose stone / mud on takeoff at the coffin. It was utterly gutting as she was in a good position and had been jumping really confidently despite the rain making it hard to see where we were going.
A short break on a beach for 6 days (bliss!) was quickly followed by getting straight back on it with a BSJA show at Onley for Grace. She jumped beautifully in probably her first time indoors, and even did a double clear in the 1.15m. Not bad for a 5 year old. This set her up well for the final event of the season for us both – Broadway Novice. She did a very smart test, a stunning clear SJ, and a good positive clear with all the straight routes for 9th. It’s amazing to think she only did her first PN at this event in the spring. The best result from this event though was Georgie who I train and keeps her horse “Andy” with us. She won her Intro Regional Final and is off to Badminton – well done Georgie – all that training on cold dark nights has paid off!
We have now settled into winter training and have had some great sessions with the young horses with Pammy Hutton and Lucinda Green. Now really is the time of year to deal with some areas of training that need attention. We are currently doing a fair amount of dressage shows, and the horses are improving all the time. We even managed an all time first – a mark of 10 for my riding! Better frame that one.........................................!
]]> 11/16/2010 6:10:48 PM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=43 43 <![CDATA[SEPTEMBER]]>  

The Burghley Young Event Horse Championships was the focus for Gracey at the beginning of the month. With extensive fitness training and management from Jane, she really looked superb. She behaved impeccably in the big ring atmosphere and despite falling down a whopper of a hole in the dressage test (afterwards to be filled with half a dustbin load of sand, it was that big!) she did a very nice test. She jumped beautifully over the show jumps, and this year there were some added cross country fences which she really enjoyed. Each phase is subjective in this competition, and only the top 10 go back in for the final judging. Unfortunately she was just outside this, but we were all pleased with her performance in a very grand location..............and of course there was the opportunity to look round the extensive shopping village!

This month we welcomed Clare Taylor as Head Groom. She has much experience in the word of eventing, and is even more of an eventing nerd than me...........now that’s saying something!
After a very frustrating season of “niggly” soundness issues with Archie, and Rupert in box rest to heal his severe injury since April, we decided to head to Rosedale’s Equine clinic in Newmarket. Rupert was seen by one of the leading surgeons in the country, and he confirmed that he would require radical surgery to his leg, or we would have to put him down. It was a very difficult decision as he will never be able to compete again, but we felt we owed it to Rupert to give him the chance, so he underwent surgery to remove a large amount of tissue from the front of his leg. He has to have a Robert Jones bandage (like a plaster cast) from elbow to hoof as part of the recovery process, but is coping with it well. We hope he can return for a well earned rest in the field in time. Archie had some diagnostic work done including an MRI scan, and along with some medication, corrective shoeing and turnout in his special tiny paddock (we call it the cell!), should be back in wok in late November.
Gracey went to Moreton Morrell Novice. She did a smart test (seems to have taken to leg yielding), but when coming to the combination in the show jumping spooked at the photographer standing next to it, and whipped round when two strides away. Very frustrating! She jumped clear otherwise, but as the time was tight anyway, gained time faults. Her clear XC put her in 10th even so. It’s always more of a challenge competing a horse that you don’t train full time at home. The regular contact and rapport that’s built day by day should never be underestimated. It’s priceless.
]]> 11/16/2010 6:07:44 PM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=41 41 <![CDATA[AUGUST]]>  

A new event in the seasons calendar – Homme House held a 5y.o. qualifier, and Paddy and Gracey both performed well with double clears. Gracey qualified for the Championships with her 4th place, and we were pleased with Paddy’s 9th in good company.
It was strange at Gatcombe (the Festival) without a ride in the main classes. It’s my favourite event of the season. Gracey went well in her BYEH class, getting into the final judging, and despite having a good go at bucking me off in the gallop, qualified for the finals at Burghley. Two ticks in the box in one week!
Paddy went to a rain soaked Aston le Walls and thoroughly enjoyed squishing about in the mud. Another double clear (he’s only had one fence down so far), and he ended up 7th. I was beaten however by my pupil Georgie, who turned in a super dressage test of 24 and finished 4th. I always enjoy my clients performing well – it’s such a buzz to see them succeed knowing all the work that has gone into achieving it.
Jane was keen for Gracey to do a Novice at Hatherliegh, home of the Wiegersma family. A 4.30am start and a 3 1/2hr drive to Devon found me at a great event despite the heavy rain. Grace did a fantastic dressage and SJ round, and unfortunately had a green and wobbly moment at a downhill ditch / skinny palisade. She completed the rest of the tough course like a pro, so we weren’t too disappointed. She got the prize for the best dressage.
Paddy went next to the 5y.o. qualifier at Highclere. Again it was a bit strange not doing the Advanced class, but as Paddy ate up the ground and pricked his ears towards the bigger fences on the cross country, he gave me the feel that it was within his capabilities in the future. He did his customary double clear and was 12th in yet another very hot class. It was testament to his safe and accurate jumping that we could complete these phases at all, as on the way to the dressage arena I turned my head to watch someone SJ and felt something go SNAP in my shoulder. By the time I got to the arenas I was in serious pain, and back at the lorry Zoe had to become team physio using ice packs and her elbow rather a lot! I was in significant pain for a few days after proving it wasn’t trivial, despite how it occurred.
Zoe is leaving us at the end of the month to go back to Ireland. We wish her well in her chosen career, and know there will be a few horses that will miss her very much....................
]]> 11/11/2010 8:26:21 PM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=39 39 <![CDATA[JULY]]>  

JULY
This month we’ve done up to 4 events a week, plus had the addition of 5 new horses, as well as having vet visits 3 times a week to deal with studwork – no time to get bored!
Early on Weston went to the new event in Wales – Glanusk. We tried new tactics for the dressage which involved very little warm-up to prevent him getting to the point of “boiling over”. This seemed to ease his tension. He ended up in 3rd place; his excellent XC round over a very stiff track putting him ahead of the pack.
Gracey went next to Shipton Moyne for the Lycetts 5y.o. qualifier. She narrowly missed qualifying, coming 6th. A busy week for Jane’s horses as Gracey was next out to Barbury for the BYEH qualifier. To my horror I discovered my boots hadn’t gone in to Jane’s lorry, the only alternative being to borrow Jane’s which are 2 sizes smaller than my feet. Bad enough to ride in, but this competition requires the rider to trot up the horse in hand- I’m now known as Geisha Jo!
The fourth event this week was Paddy’s first ever – the Lycetts 5y.o. qualifier at Buckminster. He performed way ahead of expectations finishing 5th and just missed qualifying.
Only a few days later in very wet and windy conditions he went to Upton for the same class. As he set off XC only 2 horses in the five year old section had gone clear, such was the severity of the course. Despite being very babyish and jumping to the left in several places he went clear, finishing 9th. These qualifiers are always very competitive with an extremely high standard of dressage. Paddy isn’t established in this phase as yet, so we are very pleased he has held his own. Homework for him will now include “A” frames and a pole set high on the left side of a fence like part of a cross pole to encourage him to stay central.
Paddy had a full diary this month as next he was off to Ascott under Wychwood. His attack on this competition was thwarted by his rider jumping the wrong fence into the water (I did correct it!) most likely due to lack of sleep – I’d been up until 3am with Rupert colicing.
Weston was next to his first Advanced at Aston le Walls. Yet more new tactics were employed for his dressage warm-up. This time he had a heavy night out on the tiles (!) i.e. he spent the night before in the paddock. He did a very credible test for his first time, but the next day didn’t feel at all right in the show jumping, so we didn’t go XC. The ups and downs of horses..............................
To end the month Paddy and Gracey did the BYEH qualifier at Carlton. They frustratingly ended up equal 11th, so not being called forward in the final 10 to show their gallop. This competition is subjective in every phase so really is down to the judge’s preference on the day. Great practice for dressage and show jumping – but we DO love the XC the best...........!
]]> 9/1/2010 8:51:03 AM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=37 37 <![CDATA[JUNE]]>  

JUNE
 
This month started with the disappointment of realising Archie wouldn’t make Bramham. Having missed too much fastwork and being just not quite right, we came to the decision that it just wasn’t feasible to tackle such a serious fitness test as Bramham’s hilly CCI*** course. We sent him to have a scan and hopefully after a good rest he’ll be back in action next year.
Great Tew is our local event and such a picturesque setting for our annual “Owners and Sponsors” BBQ. It’s a great opportunity to say a big thank you to everyone who supports and plays a part in the team, as well as a chance to catch up and network. We were blessed with good weather; Gracey performing a brilliant double clear in her first Novice coming in 11th, and 30 odd people ate, drank, and were very merry!
No sooner than we’d cleared up from the BBQ, than I was off to Ireland at the crack of dawn for horse shopping. Sounds glamorous, but I can assure you a whistle stop tour of 25 horses across the country is quite exhausting. Only just making the airport to return home meant some poor lady had to sit next to me on the plane resembling a dusty old cowboy, and smelling no better! The result of this expedition means we have 5 more horses of varying degrees of education to work each day – no rest for the wicked.....................
Paddy contested his first BYEH qualifier at Milton Keynes. We were very encouraged by him getting into the final judging, finishing 5th. A very creditable performance in good company. He is due to start his eventing career in July. Watch this space.........................................
]]> 9/1/2010 8:47:34 AM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=35 35 <![CDATA[MAY]]> Gracey did her first PN at the beginning of the month. She was very grown up warming in for the dressage amongst some very excitable horses in a very tight space. She did a great test, clear SJ, and got the shock of her life leaving the start box XC as I meant business from the off! It’s a tricky course to get the time and you certainly need to get going straight away as you immediately pass the lorry park. She finished 3rd and really came on for the experience.

I did the annual trip to eventing “Mecca” – Badminton. It’s been quite frustrating walking the course the last few years as I really should have been riding, but things just haven’t gone that way. I just hope that I get to go next year, and that all the walking of the hallowed turf will stand me in good stead.......!
The morning after Badminton Archie was found to have a large amount of swelling to his near hind pastern – it looked like he had tread on himself. Despite our best attention to cold hosing, icing and anti-immflamatory products it persisted in being swollen. It’s not possible to do serious levels of work with a horse like this, so he missed some fast work fitness sessions. When competing at Advanced level we gallop the horses every four days, or thereabouts, so a small issue can cause missed training and preparation, and thus missed competitions. Attention to detail is vital, and we check all the horses’ legs every day morning and night as a matter of course. Small changes in heat can indicate a problem about to immerge, and a major problem can be averted. With close observation, management and training we had Archie up and running again just in time for Chatsworth.
The weekend before though was Hambleden. Gracey did her second PN and did really well to come 4th. She’d really come on from her recent runs, and really knew what to do XC. Weston was a different story – he was incredibly spooky and leery in the SJ, resulting in him taking off and then putting down on a fence and me falling off. We went XC, and although clear, didn’t feel himself and took some strong riding in parts. Jane got him scoped afterwards, and it was found that he’d had a virus. The change in weather to a sudden cold snap didn’t help him either.
   Weston at Hambleden.
When you event professionally it’s doubly important to mentally pick yourself up and come out fighting for the next event – you owe it to your other owners. This we did with Archie for Chatsworth. He definitely felt very well when we got there and rode in for the dressage – he was squealing with delight at being at an event! I was pleased with his test, and he did the most stunning clear in the main SJ arena (he just seems to rise to the occasion – sign of a true competitor!). He did a fabulous clear XC. One fence was particularly unusual in that you jumped a drop fence into a moat, canter around in the water under a stone arch, and immediately immerging from it on a left turn, jumped a skinny brush in the water. This is where quick thinking and a non questioning attitude from a horse is vital. Archie seemed to really enjoy his round. We were in the International class and where placed a creditable 11th.
]]> 7/5/2010 6:13:39 PM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=33 33 <![CDATA[APRIL]]>  

At the beginning  of this month Martin came out to check the saddles on the horses. It’s a good time to do this as they are now fitter and it can be surprising how they can change shape / muscle up as the season begins. This is a very worthwhile exercise, as I wouldn’t go running in trainers that didn’t fit properly, so I wouldn’t expect my horses to train everyday in saddles that aren’t perfect either.
Weston went to Weston Park next. He did a much more relaxed test, followed by a show jumping round that was probably best not mentioned (!), but saved the day with a brilliant genuine XC round over a serious course.
Belton was next with Archie in the CIC***, Weston in a futurity class for young Intermediate horses, and Rupert staying at home as the organisers wouldn’t move him from the three star to an OI section (he had missed all of his early season runs, so was not ready to go straight in at that level). Archie was due to do his dressage early on the Friday morning, and then nothing until his showjumping and XC early Sunday. If Weston wasn’t doing his class on the Saturday we would have  gone home. The cost of the sport now is not only the entry fees, but stabling, diesel and the arrangements that need to be in place at home – sometimes I think I should have taken up running.........you only need trainers!
Archie did a very obedient test in the main arena amongst  a lot of atmosphere. I was pleased with him, but know that to be competitive in that kind of class we have a lot of work to do. He isn’t the biggest or flashiest mover, so needs to produce an accurate test without mistakes that is pleasing to watch. Weston felt the atmosphere of the surroundings, and despite three separate sessions of working in, got tense towards the end of his test. He show jumped well the next day, and did the most fantastic round XC even though we were held again (I’ve only ridden him in three competitions and have been held twice on course!). Archie did a beautiful clear show jumping early the next day, but after another walk of the XC, I felt the ground was far too rough to be galloping over (I wouldn’t gallop a horse over that kind of ground at home, let alone expect to in competition). I wanted to jump the course, but I just thought it was asking for trouble on that kind of going. Archie was very disappointed! It’s a horrible feeling to have to pull out – the trip home is always miserable, but this time it was even worse as we got news from home that Rupert had managed to gallop around his paddock and crash through a fence nearly severing his leg in the process. Luckily it was above the knee, and Jack confirmed there was no damage to the tendons. He will be off for a long time though, and has now been renamed sicknote.
A quick trip to Stoneliegh to do 7 different dressage tests (quite a challenge to learn that lot I can tell you!), and the next day we ran Archie in Rupert’s place in the OI at Withington. He did a great test with a mark of 2???, one down showjumping , and a great round XC to finish 3rd. Without the pole we would have won, but never the less we were just happy to have a good run after having to withdraw at Belton.
Milton Keynes was to be my first event on Jane Starkey’s homebred youngster Gracey. We had a lovely day in great weather with Gracey trying really hard in all phases. After not really knowing what to expect, I found her a pleasure and I think Gracey enjoyed her first party too. She came 4th in the Open Intro – all horses have to start somewhere............
 
]]> 5/17/2010 12:38:04 PM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=30 30 <![CDATA[MARCH]]>  

March means one thing to me - EVENT SEASON STARTS!

We started at Aston le Walls unaffiliated with Chelsea and Finn.  It felt good to get started again, get the team up to speed and organise the kit and routines we use when competing.  Chelsea produced a serious dressage test for 25.5, and Finn tried really hard for 34.  They both show jumped clear.  The cross country was a lovely well presented and educational course.  Unfortunately by the time I was due to go the sun was very bright and low in the sky, and as Chelsea turned to the 3rd fence she was met by a wall of darkness.  The low sun had an utterly blinding effect.  She refused to move point blank.  I did eventually get her to go, but by this time we were technically eliminated.  Not the best start to the season !!!  Finn did a great clear (the fences seemed quite small after a winter of five bar gates!) and came 5th.

During March we have had some work placement students from college and school.  Im always very willing to help anyone who wants to learn and is keen to gain experience - attitude is what its all about.

We managed to get some XC training in with Lucinda Green at Crown Farm.  What Lucinda doesnt know about XC riding isnt worth knowing.  She is a brilliant and passionate teacher, who is generous with her time.  Archie felt very "jolly" and it was good to have Lucindas watchful eye over us.  It reminded me to stay disciplined about my position.

I have picked up two outside rides in the form of Jane Starkeys homebred horses Weston and Miss Grace.  This is due to their usual jockey Sarah Stretton being temporarily out of action after a nasty injury to her knee sustained in a fall.  Poor Sarah is missing her first Badminton too, just to add insult to injury.  With less than a week to get to know Weston before the Intermediate at Gatcombe, we went showjump training twice, XC schooling, and did a dressage competition, all in the space of a few days.

Rupert missed too much work to enable him to go to Gatcombe, so I only had Archie in the Advanced Intermediate and Weston in the Intermediate.  Weston got a bit tense in his test, but showjumped well for just one down.  He then went beautifully XC (despite being held at the 3rd fence), and I was chuffed to bits with him as previously I had only jumped a handful of XC fences together.  Archie show jumped well with only me trying to "protect" him causing him to have a fence down.  He loved the XC - he seems to appreciate the soft going even though he has spent his life on the hard in Australia.  I got to practice my curtsey as Princess Anne likes to give the prizes out herself at Gatcombe.  Weston was 7th and Archie was 4th - a good day at the office.

 

Whilst at a training session at Roland Fernyhoughs Rupert managed to get himself up tight and give himself colic.  Hed finished his work, but was kicking and looking uncomfortable on the lorry.  We got him home and looked at by the vet, but I didnt think he was improving, so took him in to the surgery.  He stayed in overnight hooked up to a drip.  At 3 am Jack the vet sent me a text - "we have a poo", so I could finally get some sleep.  Horses...........they do like to worry you dont they?

]]> 5/4/2010 3:12:47 PM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=27 27 <![CDATA[FEBRUARY]]>  

This month we have been interviewing for our vacancy. It is crucial we have someone join us who is a good team player – if one member of the team doesn’t perform, the performance of the whole team is compromised. Working with horses during the winter isn’t the most attractive of careers, but for a person who loves caring for and watching top horses train to high standards, it can be immensely rewarding.........and of course there is plenty of tanning opportunities in the summer! There is lots to learn along the way too. So if there is anyone out there..............name and address on a postcard please........................
 
I have managed to get quite a few days hunting this month. Finn seems to be born to the job. He belongs to a client of mine who has emigrated to Canada. He is for sale and I hope to find him a home that appreciates his amazing nimbleness, “hunting savvy”, and love of galloping and jumping. The fences, country (and gates!) he has encountered out with the Warwickshire make event courses look like a piece of cake!
 
February is a time to get all registrations and early season entries done, as well as the planning for the season ahead. This has been a little difficult for the short term as we are just getting over the cough, and Archie and Rupert the two advanced horses, both have missed work due to silly little lamenesses. Archie came in from the field on three legs holding his near hind in the air. The first place to investigate (if there is no obvious wound) is the foot. He had quite a bit of heat in the hoof and I called our farrier Phil Martin, who came out immediately and found a pocket of pus. I have known many horses that have been perfectly fine in fast work, only to pull up hopping lame behind. You automatically think the worst as it looks to be a serious problem. Luckily pus in the foot is easily treated with poulticing for a few days. I also use hydrogen peroxide poured into the site to fizz out any infection. Rupert has suffered a nail prick when Phil tried to miss a crack in his hoof. We have missed some work, so now its touch and go as to whether he’ll be ready for the Advanced Intermediate at Gatcombe, the first event of the season for the “big boys”......................watch this space.
 
An extremely sad note to this month’s blog is the loss of Fresia. I got the shocking news early one morning from Richard who had gone out to feed her in the field. He found her dead with no obvious signs of struggle. We had a post mortem done with the information coming back that she was in good condition, with no signs of disease or damage to any internal organs. The conclusion was that her heart literally just stopped. It is devastating to all involved with her. She was my brightest hope for the future, and probably the best young horse I’ve had. She gave me so much pleasure when training her, and I had an amazing rapport with her – we just seemed to enjoy each other’s company. It’s hard to think that we won’t be able to event together this season. I’m going to really miss her. It’s a terrible blow to our team, but we have other horses to continue with, so we are staying positive and hope our season improves..............................................
]]> 3/17/2010 7:50:18 PM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=25 25 <![CDATA[JANUARY]]>  

Snow, snow, snow!   Lovely to look at, fun to play in, horses think its fun, BUT NOT NICE TO WORK IN! We are all about fed up with carrying water. At least it’s given me time to catch up on the dreaded paperwork and spend time on a more pressing concern – recruitment. Charlotte is leaving us for a change of career, so we are on the lookout for a new “super groom” / nanny for the horses.  We have of course made best use of the snow, our hills, and Alfa-A sacks stuffed with straw........................!
 
Mid month was my birthday and I had a thoroughly enjoyable tea in Claridges, dinner in Scotts and a lovely stopover in London. Not a horse in sight!
Our newest recruits- the foals Ronnie and Victor – have been having leading practise daily, as well as getting them used to having their feet picked up and stretched out as the farrier would do when trimming them. They have also been practising walking over old carpets and tarpaulins, as well as going up our ramp into our top block of stables. All this is in preparation for loading them. With the lorry backed up to their pen, at their first attempt they walked on like old pros! It is so important for foals to get used to all these things while they are smaller and easier to handle. It is just as important though to not “spoil” them with over handling – they must have respect for humans and not consider them as play things. Ronnie and Victor are now in a field with Mole in the next village. Weaning of Mole from Dalida was relatively straightforward and she and Fresia are now in another field at Richard’s house.
Since the end of the season we have had a cough go through the horses in the yard.  It hasnt been severe, but has seemed to linger on.  It has meant we have missed some training time, and with at least a fornight of snow, we are quite behind schedule.  We took the decision to have a specialist respiratory vet scope and take samples from Archie and we await the results.  Often in these cases a good dose of sunshine does the trick, but unfortunately we havent had the luxury of that at the minute!  Roll on Spring....................................

 

]]> 3/17/2010 11:24:20 AM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=23 23 <![CDATA[DECEMBER]]>  

 

 
This month we have been putting in a few hours at the local show centres with young horses. Just as it takes a lot of school hours for young children to learn, so it takes much work at home, and many training shows to produce a well educated young horse.  Sometimes when we get in from clear round jumping at 10pm I wonder if its all worth it............but I do feel satisfaction when I see the “babies” come on in leaps and bounds.
 
We had our Christmas party at the beginning of the month. It’s great way to say thank you to everyone behind the scenes that make Jo Aston Eventing work.
 
At this time of year I do a lot more teaching and love to help people achieve with their horses. I’ve also managed to fit in a few days hunting on a young horse, a couple of Christmas shopping outings, a trip to Olympia, and also “scrubbed up” to catch up with a few people for dinner. As well as that we’ve had 14 days of staff holidays to fit in and one very important owner’s milestone birthday lunch!
 
Santa has yet to deliver a “Mary Poppins Super Groom” on Christmas morning, so with Zoe in Ireland, Charlotte and myself fed all the horses, turned them out, mucked out and bedded down. Even the basics such as this takes several hours with 8 stabled, 3 outside, and 2 foals to do. We opened presents, and then went our separate ways to stuff ourselves silly with lunch (under the illusion that we’d burn it all off the next day mucking out!). Right now the start of the season feels a long way away..................................
 

HAPPY CHRISTMAS!

]]> 3/17/2010 10:49:21 AM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=21 21 <![CDATA[NOVEMBER]]>  

In August ’08 a trip to Brightwells Stars of the future sale gained us a Show Jumping bred mare – Dalida. She was sold as scanned in foal and didn’t attract many bids. We decided to take a punt on the “buy on get one free” offer, and in May she produced a very correct colt foal – Mole (the foal!). Their owner Richard Last decided that Mole should have some foal friends to grow up with, so the search was on to find some TB foals to run with him and ultimately produce for eventing. Quite a few hours were spent in the office researching, and a few more travelling the length of the country, and finally a deal was done for a colt and filly foal from Templar stud in Surrey. These pair have the blood of the now deceased “Hand in Glove” a quite remarkable French TB stallion who was successful in racing, in dressage to Prix St George, and show jumping at Grand Prix. Fetching these foals back became a bit of a drama as the borrowed lorry’s brakes seized while driving down to Surrey and caught fire! We were just so lucky not to have two unhandled foals on at the time
Coup has been sold to Sarah Holdern a “professional amateur” who lives near Newbury. We wish them the best of luck and hope to see them out competing in the spring. We are missing him lots – he was such a character, and I had a real partnership with him.
I have managed to have a bit of down time – the Warwickshire hunt ball at the end of the month. Dressing up and dancing – I love it! AND my favourite TV show of the year has started – Strictly Come Dancing – sequins, elegance and male dancers wriggling hips – bring it on!!!
 
]]> 3/17/2010 10:29:28 AM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=19 19 <![CDATA[OCTOBER]]> We are becoming experts at massaging thighs and bottoms! Fresia is back on track, and Charlotte made a miraculous recovery from her groin strain when I offered to use the horse’s ultrasound and cold gel on her!

 
With Archie not going to Boekelo it was all systems go for Coup to produce his best at the Breeding Championships at Tweseldown. With the best five year olds in the country competing, and the class being run with Novice level dressage and showjumping, but only PN XC, we would have to pull off something special, so I entered Addington dressage the weekend before for some practice.
Coup did a Prelim test which he won by 10 marks, and then came 6th in his first Novice. Fresia was placed in her Prelim, so all in all a day well spent.
 
At Tweseldown Coup really understood what to do in the dressage after his Addington outing, and gave it his all – he really has the knack of rising to the occasion and pulling out all the stops in the arena.
We had a very uncharacteristic pole down in the showjumping. On inspection of the video it seemed like the lightest of touches with a hind hoof, but otherwise a round to be proud of.
The XC was slightly more severe than in previous years, and this suited us well. The time was tight too, so we went for it!  He gave me a really mature ride. I was thrilled with his focus and understanding of the job in hand – he is developing into an exciting prospect. We finished 7th, and Coup has shown us yet another of his talents – prizegivings……! He adored having his photo taken and the lap of honour to music! It was another long day at the office, but very satisfying.
 
Coup had two days off, then just two days to prepare for his first Novice at Broadway. 
He handled the very complicated dressage test like a pro (medium canter on a circle, reinback…..ppleeeaase!.....we used to do that at Intermediate!) and got an excellent score of 31.
The showjumping caused a lot of trouble. Coup didn’t feel quite his normal springy self, and had a pole down. I then made the mistake of over riding him resulting in another down. So easily done.
The XC was quite tough with some serious hills and I wasn’t sure whether I would run him due to him not being on top form. We did go though, and he really ate up the course and enjoyed it. He made it feel easy. 

When I look back and realise that this time last year he was barely broken in, I can see what a long way he has come and what a special chap he is turning into. Unfortunately he is now for sale which is really sad, especially as I feel we have a real partnership. However the girls and myself do need to eat through the winter(!), and the financial side of an event team does not look after itself. On that note, I am increasing my teaching commitments during the “off season”, and will be doing regular clinics and XC sessions. I do love to help people to achieve with their horses, whether that’s competitively, or to gain harmony and partnership. I shall be investing in some decent gloves and a fleecy hat……………

]]> 11/6/2009 9:49:51 PM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=17 17 <![CDATA[SEPTEMBER continued………..]]>  

After a rather deflating Blenheim it was straight back to work with my farrier Phil Martin checking out Archie’s foot problem. It was discovered that he had an infected corn that had flared up precisely in time for my test at Blenheim. VERY FRUSTRATING, but of course not a career threatening injury, so with management (i.e. a bar shoe to give extra support to the inner heel) he should live to compete another day.

He went on the waitlist for Boekelo CCI*** in Holland, but we were frustratingly low down the order, which meant keeping him “primed” and in work just on the off chance that we would get the call from British Eventing to say we could go at the last minute. Competitors from other nations don’t have as much rivalry for places at International events, so I am seriously considering finding a Thai husband………..! I could be the first Thai to compete in the sport of eventing!
 
However no time to get down, as Coup was entered for Purston PN. He was first in the arena, and produced an excitable test due to a horse galloping around in the paddock right next to our arena. This was followed by a fabulous double clear inside the time taking all the straight routes to finish on his dressage score in 9th place. He really is learning his trade now and becoming a real competitor.
 
A one day horse shopping trip to Ireland (4am – 12pm) followed. We have a new 4 year old to join the ranks, with the very original name of Paddy! I’m useless with names, and Zoe didn’t seem to be offended…………! (She’s from the North so it doesn’t count!).
 
Fresia and Coup were entered for the final Young Horse Breeding Championship qualifier at Moreton Morrell. As I’d been busy at Blenheim it had been a little while since Fresia had been XC, so I decided to take her schooling just to have a splash in the water, and do minimum jumping due to the hard ground. Unfortunately while I was signing in, she got scared by a loose horse, and slipped over on concrete while Zoe was holding her. She wasn’t sound so we immediately took her to the vets, and muscle strain was diagnosed. Some massage and anti-imflamatory was prescribed. Meanwhile back at home Charlotte was busy being bucked off, so I then joined her for a 7hr stint in A and E to be diagnosed with exactly the same as Fresia. It was much quicker at the vets……….!
 
Annoyingly Fresia missed her qualifier. I thought she had a great chance of qualifying too. One to watch out for next year……….. Coup held up the side though by coming third with a dazzling display of SJ and XC – he’s becoming quite the professional!
 
Breeding Championships here we come……………………………………………
]]> 11/6/2009 9:43:53 PM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=15 15 <![CDATA[The Tale of Blenheim]]> My BLENHEIM BLOG

Wednesday

We arrived in plenty of time on Wednesday to settle Archie into the stables and set up camp for the week.  It’s really handy being so close to Blenheim – it means I can go home to sleep in my own bed!

Whilst grazing Archie, Charlotte found 7 four leaf clovers.  We all felt more confident after that!

Archie passed the trot up.  It’s always a tense time for all concerned – a sound horse can managed to find and step on the only stone in a field, and then present itself lame to the ground jury.

We made good use of the arena customisation time – you are allowed to walk around the outside of the dressage arena in the main ring on a loose rein only.  This is to get the horses familiar with the area.  Fortunately Archie didn’t seem to mind the new judge’s huts.

Thursday

Spectators at 3DE’s only ever get to see a small snapshot of what goes on at top events when they watch competitors actually competing.  Although you may only have one or two horses to ride there is a tight timetable to keep to.  At least 4 course-walks are to be fitted in, as well as riding probably twice a day, fitting in with trainer’s availability and set times for practise jumping.  I also find it useful to watch other competitors especially in the dressage.

I worked Archie on the flat in the morning and watched back the video footage of us running through the test to see how it would look to the judges, and where we could squeeze out a few more marks.  Both he and I had physio treatment from Kathryn Kirby who luckily lives just around the corner.

I walked the course twice – first thing and in the afternoon – that’s nearly 8 miles of walking!

Friday

I worked Archie up at the warm-up area near the main ring as this was allowed until 8.20am when the first competitors of the day use this space.  He worked really well and felt as good as he ever has done.

I watched a few tests and then went back to the lorry to go through a set yoga routine and another physio session.  Meanwhile in the stables Archie was doing exactly the same!  After some fashion discussion on what stock to wear (!), both myself and Archie were ready to ride to the main arena (a 25min hack).  We met my dressage trainer Pammy Hutton there.  Archie worked in well, as usual giving his all.

In the arena he stayed relaxed, but I felt he lacked a bit of sparkle and he also had a few un-level steps in the shoulder-in.  We had one mistake when Archie did his flying change early in what should have been the counter canter.  Considering all this, he got a pretty respectable score of 55.

Afterwards at the stables the vet checked him and he seemed fine, and was given the all-clear to go X-C the next day.  I had a troubled nights sleep though.

                                                                                  
Saturday

I got to the stables early and enlisted the help of another set of eyes – Lucinda Green and Nik Deacon the farrier.  Between us, and in telephone discussion with Phil Martin my farrier at home, we decided something wasn’t right.  On removing the shoe we found a bruised / corn like area developing on the inside of Archie’s foot.  It meant he couldn’t continue the competition. 

I felt deflated, but at least I knew what the problem was, and it wasn’t a serious career threatening injury.  What made it worse was that it would only be a matter of days before he would be sound, so now we have a fit and prepared horse with no party to go to!
 

]]> 9/17/2009 10:44:20 AM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=12 12 <![CDATA[AUGUST]]>  

AUGUST
 
 
August brings Gatcombe (The Festival of Eventing), one of my favourite events of the year. Usually the weather is good (!), and there is a really great atmosphere, coupled with excellent viewing and shopping.
 
I had Cry Freedom (C.F.) and Archie entered for the Advanced. C.F. did a much improved dressage test that his connections were thrilled with. Archie became a little tense and stiff and was rewarded with a commensurate mark – at championship events nothing can be “glossed over”.
 
We stabled over night in Cirencester as the show jumping started at 7.30am the next morning meaning we would have to be on site for 6.30am. Grooms really take the brunt of this and are the un-sung hero’s of the sport – Charlotte was up at 3.30am to feed and get the lorry packed.
 
Archie tried his heart out over a challenging course due to the terrain in the main arena. He jumped one of only 5 clears. C.F. unfortunately succumbed to the electric atmosphere of the Gatcombe collecting ring, behaving like an un-broken 3 year old! He had 3 down which was disappointing, as his mental state let him down. Horses are just like people – some can cope with pressure more than others. My job is to find the key that helps each horse do his best.
 
The X-C course was causing plenty of trouble, not helped by a misunderstanding of flagging at the corners, which resulted in a few eliminations for error of course. When I got to the collecting ring on Archie I was told that he route I had planned to take was not possible. Next came some frantic discussion between riders, and I was then all sorted only to realise I didn’t have my medial arm band on. It’s not easy to attach at the best of times, let alone on an excited horse, so I jumped of to do it and…….BANG!......I’d forgotten to unclip my Point Two air vest and I was blown up like a giant black pudding!!! There was no time to change the canister so I went without it. Archie was brilliant and came home clear with a respectable time. This was the first Advanced class I had ridden him in, and Gatcombe being quite a unique test too, I was thrilled with him. He finished 4th.
 
C.F. gave me the best ride ever. It is almost a bit of a cliché to say he has been trained by the best, but I must say you can really feel it. Lucinda and Karol watched nearly all the round on the big screen, and were as pleased as I was with the way he went. Bad news to follow though, as we found heat and some filling to C.F.’s off-fore afterwards. A scan detected a small tear to the superficial flexor tendon, so the rest of August for C.F. has consisted of thrice weekly visits to the Equine Spa at Bourton on the Water, cold hosing, and trying to get him to stand in buckets of iced water! Most disappointing is the fact he will miss Blenheim – I was so looking forward to riding him there. Archie now begins the run up to Blenheim. We have been lucky enough to use the gallops at the spa, so after his work out he gets a jaccuzi – albeit a cold one!
 
After Gatcombe my attention was turned to the “babies”. Fresia went to her the unaffiliated intro as her first ever event. She was quite confused as what to do with the white boards of the dressage arena, jumped all the showjumps with four feet to spare (I’m not kidding!), and did a lovely clear X-C having a nice pit stop for a slurp in the water jump! She ended just out of the placings due to our leisurely X-C, but her four year old qualifiers aren’t timed so I was thrilled to bits with her. Her stable mate Malachey managed to up hold his record of 100% by winning his 2nd event, this time with a dressage score of 16! Coup showed me he knows what to do on the X-C now, ending up 3rd in the Pre-Novice by virtue of being 2 seconds quicker than the person we were tied in 2nd place with.
 
Coup and Fresia then went to Burnham Beeches for the Young Event Horse championship qualifier. Fresia go the hang of the dressage and scored a very good 27, but as the ground was unbelievably hard I withdrew her to save her immature bones for another day. Coup did a decent test, and another double clear to be just out of the placings. These classes are incredibly competitive, with dressage often the deciding factor.
 

My next outing was Highclere – a last run for Archie before Blenheim. He did a much better dressage, but unusually for him had 2 down showjumping. He went clear X-C (at nearly 7.15pm due to hold ups!), but I wasn’t totally convinced he was firing on all cylinders, so had him blood tested the next morning. He had signs of a low grade bacterial infection, so a short course of antibiotics has him now very chirpy again! We now have 10 days before Blenheim, so it’s a case of a final gallop (always a tense time), and jump before we go in on the Wednesday for the trot-up and briefing. FINGERS CROSSED!

]]> 9/15/2009 2:25:53 PM http://www.martinwilkinson.com/blog-A?view=plink&id=10 10