Kirstys Horses Central Bedfordshire goes to Royal Windsor.
By Clare Wild

It was an early start for all of us, we were on the yard at 4am each armed with a list of jobs to make sure we were loaded and on the road by 5.30. It was a hive of activity not just for the competing horse but also for those staying behind. Everyone needed to be fed, watered and turned out while the competing horse was plaited, cleaned and dressed for traveling. Despite us being in May there was a frost on the ground and threading needles with numb fingers that early in the morning is a complicated affair. It was a team effort getting loaded and didn’t go quite as smoothly as was hoped but we finally managed to get on the road for the 2 hr journey to Windsor.

Traffic was kind to us and we made it in good time to the showground where the unloading went without a hitch. Both horse and rider headed off to the day stables at quite a pace while we followed more slowly laden with haynets, rugs, tack and grooming kits. The rest of the preparations went smoothy and we made our way to the ring, despite the early hour of the class there was anticipation and excitement in the air plus a good smattering of spectators. The class didn’t go as was hoped but we didn’t let that spoil the mood as we now had the whole day ahead of us. With the horse happily settled in his stable munching hay we made our way through the growing crowds to the nearest coffee stall. With caffeine coursing through our veins the next port of call was the shops where we were able to stock up on free samples followed by a go on a mechanical horse. This caused much amusement amongst our group as the operator spent a lot of time reversing us out of fences and barns. For experienced riders steering the mechanical horse proved to be challenging!

It was then time to take our seats to watch the many competitions and shows in the main arena. Highlights for me included the Shetland Grand national. Which I was surprised to learn is a breeding ground for some top jockeys of the future. The high speed action continued with the inter hunt relay challenge. This consisted of Sixteen hunts contesting a £1000 prize over fences created by top show jumping course designer Bob Ellis. The competitors all showed that they wanted to win and there were several near misses as teams sped round the course. The afternoon of high speed action also contained the Pony Club DAKS International Mounted games which was amazing to watch as the kids threw themselves quite literally into it in a bid to win.

Not everyone came out of this competition unscathed and I suspect any of the competitors parents watching would have been holding their breath. The afternoon was topped off with top class showjumping which saw names like Pippa Funnell, Tim Stockdale and John Whitaker competing. It was then time for us to leave and after loading the horse and equipment, this time without incident. We began the journey back to Bedfordshire arriving back on the yard at 9.30pm. It was a long, exhausting but thoroughly enjoyable day.

Contact Clare below
Horse Sitter in Bedfordshire