Collywobbles

[racaille]

Yes, I'm all ajitter as I'm hacking down to the trainer tomorrow for a jumping lesson - P hasn't seen a jump (except for the odd log) for three months and he's going to have to heave himself over a few at the w/e.

The most difficult thing about the Chevauchée test is that it follows a morning's 15km when the horses are tired and thirsty. He is difficult to motivate like that but I must not let him slouch up to the jumps. There will be a off-set slalom between the first two jumps so they are best taken at trot (they are only littlies) so you don't thunder straight through the slalom but then you have to pick up the speed for the remaining jumps (it is a speed test).

I don't know if I can remember how to do it ......

[haffyfan]

...of course you can remember!

[duckles]

....like riding a bike

He won't forget either - might hurt a little the next day if either of you use abandoned muscles but you mightn't even have that

[fimacg]

you will remember, but a lesson is a good idea.

[florence]

Okay, here's my method:

Point horse towards jump
Clamp legs on tight
Hunch forward
Tuck fists under chin
Close your eyes and hold your breath.
Oncle well clear of jump, open eyes and breathe!

[baymare]

you will be fine.take it steady and he will love it.bay.

[maximum]

florence you forgot
- Swear gently under breath

[FirenLady]

and you forgot praying!

[jane]

also don't forget to have the strangest gurning face you can muster at all times whilst jumping, it is good to practise in mirror before hand...

haha..... I love the gentle swearing and praying whilst holding breath and closing eyes, quite the contortionists really aren't we?

I am sure you will be surprised at how much you do remember when actually there.