Well, a mixed weekend at Gatcombe! Friday was fantastic with Spring Prophet moving up to Intermediate level with ease finishing 3rd in his section, another horse that has really started to grow into himself and show real promise for next year! Ridgefield II was 6th in the same section with a lovely double clear which was equally pleasing! Yesterday however brought me back down to earth (literally!) with a bump. I took both 6 year olds to do the Novice and things started off well with two pleasing tests and 2 clears rounds SJ then Oakenhall True Start deposited me on the floor coming out of the water to a narrow big box brush, not all bad as up until this point he went really very nicely! Cactherston Caractacus found the water complex all together too much to look at and went very green on me so a big "E" on his results! Doubtless Cullin then finished my day off on a better note going double clear on his dressage score leaving him 11th in the competitive ON section. All I can say is that's eventing for you, one day up the next down!
Rain fall can trigger growth akin to a spring flush, especially if temperatures are high. Even whilst true spring may be in the past, the risk for those prone to laminitis will rise.
For the second consecutive Sunday, presenter Adam Henson has discussed the use of sainfoin during Countryfile.
''Feed the mare to feed the foal'' - wise words from many an experienced breeder. With little grass due to the dry weather, grazing can be topped up in the feed bowl.