Spot and I have really stepped up our LeMieux Badminton Grassroots Championship preparations this month. The lighter evenings and better weather after school have made a massive difference, and we’ve been out and about loads over the last couple of weeks.
We kicked off the month with a visit from Alnorthumbria. Spot had his full pre‑season MOT with our local vets, routine dental, vaccinations, the full works and big thanks to Ellie for looking after him so well.
We’ve managed a few beach trips with Mum, which Spot loves. We’re really lucky to live so close to the beach, and trotting through the water has been brilliant for his fitness (and great fun for both of us!).
We’ve also been making the most of arena hires. One of the highlights was Richmond Equestrian Centre, where they have a brilliant cross‑country layout on a surface, including a ditch, steps, and a proper water complex. After a two‑hour drive Spot jumped so well that after just 20 minutes we both felt like we’d achieved enough.
This month we also had our first unaffiliated competition of the year. Spot jumped the 90 and was VERY keen to be back out competing. To top the morning off, Dad treated us to McDonald’s on the way home, which definitely made it even better!
Another great outing was cross‑country schooling at Breckenbrough. It was our first time jumping on grass for a while, and we rode some trickier lines and a few skinny fences. Spot felt brilliant and very on form.
This weekend we’re heading to an unaffiliated dressage show at our local equestrian centre, and we’ve also now got a date for Piggy’s which I’m extremely excited about! Spot is getting a smart haircut this week so he looks his best for our first event of the season, which we’ve just entered, as well as for our visit to Piggy’s.
I can’t wait to update you all in next month’s diary.
Charlie & Spot