Toudle and my lad showjumping for first time- video

[brigadier]

Really pleased with my lad and Toudle. 1st competition at a local venue. We entered the clear round for two rounds, the first as a practice, then the second to do seriously. On the first Toudle jumped no 1 then did a dirty little drop shoulder stop at the second, but my lad stayed on and made him jump it then went on to do the rest nicely with just another run out on the double, but over it after a circle. He then went straight into the second go, producing this lovely rhythmical round.





We then entered the 45cm class (same course) He went clear in the first round but then we were told to go straight into the jump off round which was unexpected because we hadn't realised so it was all a bit rushed and haphazard as we tried to remember the numbers. Consequently he had a bit of a wobbly angled approach to the double helping Toudle with his master plan of running out at the second element so he got a refusal, but he went on to jump clearso in all a great first competition. He was disappointed to not get a rosette, but accepted it graciously. (He is fiercely competitive!)

[zara]

Fabulous! They look great together. How old is he now? And is that you with the hat? x

[pboy]

Doesn't he ride nicely?! He has an enviable position and rides Toudle really well. Have they got more outings planned?

[fleabitten]

Oh hes so cute wee toudle!! What a lovely little pony! Looks great fun! Such a nice steady rhythm - toudle at times looks like 'ill take a wee break here' but hes made canter on lol!

[racaille]

Blimey well done that lad! Love the way that he made T canter on when he wanted to fall back into trot - can't believe how fast your boy has got to this level!

[brigadier]

Yes Zara, that is my bad hair day hat! Toudle is a great kids pony as he makes them ride but does it when asked. Im not sure he is 'just out of lead rein' safe any more as he will pop into canter quite easily and this jumping is making him sharper. But he is a great 'improver' pony because if they ask he will do it. And he is wonderful to have about. They are starting to make a good team.
My lad is a perfectionist and wants to do things well, so will work hard to get it right, but as such he does get frustrated at failure. Its why I like Jack training him, he likes his determination and works on the psychology side of things as well.

[haffyfan]

They look like a great team and Toudle looks a really fun pony. I'll bet they'll have lots of great times together.