Judge Pleasure Ride

We did it. We won the Senior Division of the 2018  Bay State Trail Rider’s Lea MacInnis Judged Pleasure Ride! We have never finished better than second before.

The funny thing is that our scores were better last year. Jigs and I left a lot of points on the trail, but a win is a win and we have some things to work on! Points were lost because I rushed Jigs and in one case, did not listen to instructions. User error.

Unlike a versatility, the Lea Macginnis Judged Pleasure Ride is a trail ride with obstacles sprinkled throughout. Points are awarded for how well the horse and rider perform each task. Some obstacles are like those in a versatility or trail class; others are  closer to what trail riders encounter on the trail. For example, this year’s challenge included crossing a narrow metal bridge over running water. You had to dismount and walk your horse across, then remount. An extra point was awarded for mounting on the offside.

Jigs and I needed that point. He HATES these types of bridges and rushed passed me to his friends on the other side. Naughty pony.

I fretted most of the 7 miles about the upcoming second to last obstacle. It was a jump and then a canter. I am terrified of jumping and, well, I have no confidence at the canter.

Canter? I have to Canter in public?

Jigs trotted to the jump and stepped over it, nicking the rail with his hind hoof and loosing a point, BUT we got the canter correct!!!  Trophy or not, that made the day perfect.

Senior Division

My friend and her young mustang took over all champion and won the year end award. I am so proud of them!

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