This message is from: "Ardeth Obenauf" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> I was fortunate enough to compete in the inaugural Lexington CDE at the Kentucky Horse Park with my fjord mare, 7 yr old MHF Lena. We compete as Preliminary Single Pony and were the only fjord in the field. The judges were European, but we got decent dressage scores from two of the three (the German one was tough). We were behind Muffy Seaton and one other driver. The marathon was rough. The course, which is being developed for the FEI games to be held there in 2010, was very demanding and somehow it was well over 90 degrees! Fortunately Lena had her second body clip of the season earlier in the week.
There were three separate sets of vets and vet techs; one after section D, one at the end of E and a final set at the barns. Lena did get very hot, but cooled off quickly as is typical for her. After the marathon, we felt that we hadn't done very well, but apparently it was a rough go for everyone as we finished second, winning the water hazard! Lena has finally learned that galloping in water is easier than trotting. We were still in third after day two, but less than 6 pts from the lead. I'm hot and cold with cones and the cold driver showed up that day. We hit two, but it ended up not making a difference as both drivers ahead of me went clean and I was far enough ahead of the fourth place finisher to finish in third. It was a great opportunity to watch the advanced drivers, the pairs and four in hands. The hazards were decorated beautifully with fall décor and flowers. The fourth hazard was decorated with a pair of Porsche Cayennes flanking the entry. Lena showed that she can compete at this sport. I'm very proud of her and am looking forward to next season with great anticipation. We hung around the Horse Park for the National Drive which seemed very laid back after the CDE and had a great time. There were many fjords in attendance. Also, we participated in the featured breed demonstations sponsored by the NFHR on Saturday and Sunday. Lena is now enjoying a well-deserved week off. The FjordHorse List archives can be found at: http://tinyurl.com/rcepw
