Facing a demon

[racaille]

I am terrified of XC - hate fixed jumps as P is not a horse who can get himself out of difficulties when jumping.

But there's the last part f the Durance Challenge next week and I've signed up ... gulp. I should be in the 90cm class but P would struggle and I haven't got the courage so I've put myself down for the 60cm.

[racaille]

Had training sesh last night and he was good (apart from initial explosion when the loudspeaker came on) but needs a lot of rebalancing between jumps. Not bothered by the tyres, had a good look at the oil drums but went over them anyway. ;D

Not brave enough to tackle big cistern covered in grass matting - just too vast - or the biggest log but can face everything in my class.

[duckles]

I have to say that I always really admire you Racaille as you do so many varied, difficult and interesting things with Paco. As my backround in horses started with a lot of cross country/hunter trials/hunting, I am (or used to be) ok with fixed jumps. I don't think you will have a problem either once you do loads of it. Paco will find his 5th leg as well. I have come to that conclusion recently that once you do something regularly, it becomes easier and easier for both horse and rider- regardless of how difficult or impossible it once seemed.
You are dead right to go for the smaller option. Make it a good experience for both of you and you will be able to get him over 60cm at trot (or even walk) if he is thinking of running out. So no bad habits formed.

But I still admire you so much, I haven't done a competition in nearly 4 years! I did one fun run 3 years ago. And nothing much since. But I hope to get more like you (and Fimacg) and start actually doing something with my lovely boys.

[fleabitten]

I am sure you will do great and it was a good decision to go for the 60cm class. It may even go so well that you will enter a bigger class the next time!

I am a bit scared of fixed jumps too mainly because they are so intimidating looking! I am getting to grips with the height of poles just about lol

I think that is very true duckles - for anything in life - the more you do it the easier it gets.

[racaille]

Aw, you're too kind Duckles! I only make myself do things because I'm such a coward - I worry that I'll end up doing nothing! But a lot of stuff has been rained off this year and now it's too hot and dry, the ground is concrete.

[zara]

I too really admire you Rac; go for it and I'm sure you and Paco will have a great time and won't be able to wait for the next one. Good luck and enjoy Zx

[kitcat]

I am another member of your fan club You and Paco do so much together and always give things a go even when you are not sure about it. Good luck