This is a tale of conflicting emotions.

There’s nothing unusual about being dismounted during a show. It happens to the best, it’s all part of the game, everyone is ok, shake it off and move ahead to better days! It’s still frustrating, of course. After all, you put in the time and effort every day preparing for competition and even if you don’t obsess over the accolades, it’s nice to be reassured that what you are doing is working.

Oh well. Dust yourself off, grab the reins and get out. Worry about the details later. So…just go collect your horse and we’ll be on the way…

Anytime now…grab…reins…bridle…something…stop…STOP…

At some point, perhaps in the few seconds between the 23rd and 24th solo jumps, thoughts of “what have I done wrong?” turn to “look how much he loves to jump!” Even though the horse opted for the solo route, you have to be feeling pretty good about your training process—not to mention this guy’s ability. How about that jump with the rider hanging off his neck? Triple combination? IN MY SLEEP.

Who cares about the ribbon, that is championship stuff. Think it’s safe to say this fella enjoys his gig.

Rider falls off

Setting up for the jump while hanging on to the side of the horse…

rider falls off 2

The rider hangs on and clears the jump! Impressive.

14fdko

Look mom, “no rider!”

Likes like the solo jumper is slowing down...

Likes like the solo jumper is slowing down…