After Jolene rode Winnie in three events it was Justine's turn to ride in three events. Unfortunately, the down time gave her too much time to think, get nervous and then a downpour made the arena sloppy a slightly slippery. At first this was almost more than Justine could take, but Jolene's consummate skill of kind gentle encouragement balance with some firm persuasion got them in the arena to test out during the warm up. Once there, Winnie was not about to forfeit and leave, but worked her magic to get Justine smiling and relaxed. Everything she did was slow, smooth and deliberate and she was really paying attention to and attentive to Justine's emotions and needs. By the end of the event they were both much more relaxed, on the fence rail and weaving their way through the 12 other horses. This even was the Youth English Equitation (judging the rider) and the second half must have been much better than the first because they finished 4th. We were EXTREMELY proud and surprised that Justine stuck with it a persevered. We were fortunate to have Jolene's guidance and expertise and grateful to have a horse that could be trusted and knew what to do. "WAY TO GO GIRLS!!!!"
In the pictures you can see the rain, muddy arena and scared, sad face give way to confidence determination and horse and rider working together for a good result. Notice in the last pic, rather than staying in the center away from the competition, they got on the rail and into the thick of it, which is where Winnie shined. No other horse was going to get in her way or bother her rider
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