Update Jan 2017

09-Jan-2017


At the beginning of 2016, everything went pretty much to plan. I was focussing on my young mare, Astek Aarcijazz and doing well at level 2 despite it being her first season competing. We went to NZPCA Dressage Champs giving a hand at a few level 3 tests (gaining a 2nd on 69%), we competed at our first HOY (qualifying with 70%), even coming home with a ribbon after gaining 69% in the 2D but it was sure a rollercoaster event since the atmosphere was both over-exciting and exhausting for her. We also competed at Young Rider Champs and also placed in a few classes gaining some very respectable scores.

After a well earned break, Aarcijazz came back strong and felt better than ever; prepping for a level3/4 start at the beginning of the next season. Shortly after doing a local day in September where we (thought to have) completed our last level 2 test (77%) and a level 3 test (68%) I found her resting a leg in the paddock with a massively swollen fetlock and completely fracture lame. About a week or so later (while being on box rest) once the swelling had gone down a scan revealed a huge blow to the superficial tendon just superior to the hind fetlock. She was perscribed 12-18months of rest in a small area with a 30% chance of recovery. But every cloud has a silver lining; the vet gave the OK (even suggested) due to her great breeding (GT Jake x Aachen) to put her in foal. She is now 49 days pregnant to Sheena Ross's stunning imported Oldenburg stallion Fugato SW. So exciting days ahead!

The semi-retired Northern Lights was brought back into work placing Reserve Champion in the Open ring at the Clevedon Open Ribbon Day, Champion Pleasure Show Horse at Papatoetoe Pony Club Pleasure Horse Show (qualifying for HOY) and we are reserve on the Auckland Area dressage team for NZPCA Dressage Champs 2017 (2nd time as a pair). Also plan on doing a few level 4 tests to make the most of the season and being away from uni. Just before Christmas we had a go at our first level 5 test at an Abderry Twilight show and managed to have a clean test, even managed to get all the changes in! For a 19 year old appaloosa x TB who had only done a few level 3 starts and a green rider at this level was a HUGE feat. 

Will keep you posted!!!