It has been a fantastic start to the new season however it was sadly cut short by the corona virus! Before we were on lockdown I had the chance to go to two winter premier shows with Shelby. After a good start at Arena UK with a placing and clear in the 1.20, it set us up perfectly for Bury Farm - my last Winter premier on ponies. It was mostly exciting as my new ride Paddy was joining Shelby in competing over the two days however Shelby was due to step up a level to 1.30 in the JA winter classic which is a class where only the top ponies in the country compete. Shelby jumped incredible from start to finish, jumping clear, placing 5th and qualifying for the JA final. Paddy also jumped some super rounds in the 1 metres placing 3rd and 5th over the two days. I was extremely pleased with both of the boys.

We were looking forward to POYS this month however due to the isolation ruling we are all staying safe at home and putting some key training in place. Both ponies have been doing small, technical exercises to improve my riding and their co-ordination and ride-abilitly. It has been very useful to get to know Paddy during this time and even without competing him I am learning about his way of going and he is also teaching me lots. Shelby is on top form which makes this lockdown even more of a shame however we are keeping him fit and in competition form so that whenever the shows do re-open he will be ready to head straight out and jump on his best form.