Lisa Pilbeam

Tri-Zone Allsports Boot

2011-09-06T09:04:00.000-07:00

Another great product I picked up from Dragonfly is Tri-Zone Allsports Boot. I've been using these for schooling but they offer good enough protection to use XC too and I have taken them cross country schooling.

They're really lightweight but they also have polycarbonate layer to protect the tendons. I've noticed when I've used them that they don't get as sweaty as some boots. I school everyday and with a yard of quite a few I'm lucky that these boots fit many of my horses they also can be used on both front and hinds. Another recommended purchase and a good addition to any training or competition wardrobe for your horse!

http://www.dragonflysaddlery.co.uk/addtocart.asp?categoryid=11&subcatid=206&hr=h&categoryname=Boots&subcatname=Sports+Boots&itemid=1712

Thanks to Les Brown of Topham Brown Photography who took some great shots below of them being worn in training!

http://www.topham-brownphotography.co.uk/_/Welcome.html

Equetech Show Shirt

2011-09-06T08:47:00.000-07:00

It's been a few months now since I got my Equetech Show Shirt from Dragonfly Saddlery (my last show shirt was well worn so I was in need of a good replacement!)

With a busy season I'm wearing my shirt every week and I'm really pleased with it. The design is flattering and it has kept me cool in the warmer weather too. I'm not really one for bling but I do like the diamanté on the overcollar and button!

It's washed well - it's needed too the amount it has been worn and is comfortable to wear with a stock.

If you're looking for a show shirt I recommend it!

http://www.dragonflysaddlery.co.uk/itemlist.asp?categoryid=94&subcatid=256&hr=r&subcatname=Riding+Shirts&categoryname=Technical+%26+Riding+Shirts&nocat=y

BRC Area 10 Horse Trials - Borde Hill Sunday 10 July 2011

2011-07-20T14:20:00.000-07:00

I went to Borde Hill Horse Trials with Beau and Tango to represent Rother Valley Riding Club in the British Riding Club Area Horse Trials. Beau was a last minute substitute as one of the other team members could not make it. Thankfully Beau's owner Marilyn was able to step in and offer his services! Those of you who have read earlier posts will know that I school Beau regularly for Marilyn and we have a good partnership now with quite a few 1st and places.

Beau was great again and had a 30.5 and double clear with no time penalties and won his section so qualified for the Nationals in August at Aston-le-Walls!

Tango had a good day too with a 31.8 dressage, 2 down and clear XC to come 4th individually and 2nd in his team which meant our team qualified for the Nationals too so hopefully both Tango & Beau will be going to the Nationals in August!

Beau - SJ Borde Hill

Photos: Dom Witham

Eridge - 2 July 2011

2011-07-20T08:18:00.000-07:00

I took Tango & Corby to Eridge and was also riding Cinderbanks (Kylie) for owner Elspeth Appleby.

Kylie was entered in the BE90 Retrained Racehorse Section. They didn't have enough entries for this section so it was combined with another. She had a good dressage (36) and a double clear with 3.2 time penalties. This put Kylie in 5th place (2nd Retrained Racehorse). It was a shame about the time penalties, Eridge is a bit hilly and it felt like we'd get inside the time, possibly could have pushed a bit more but as it was only our second competition together and I'd only ridden her a handful of times delighted with the 5th place and a great improvement on Rackham. She was really good and calmer than at Rackham, she's a lovely mare.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sjnJYnZ3DEU&feature=channel_video_title video of Kylie's SJ round at Eridge.

Tango had a great dressage 26.5 which was best in his section. He had 3 poles down, he was jumping a bit flat and it was his first show with tents etc round the arena so a lot to look at. He had one runout XC the mushrooms at number 5, it was a bit cheeky of him as he felt like he was riding positively towards it! The rest of the course was fine and obviously he picked up time penalties because of the run out and I also took him a bit slower round the rest of the course as he was really out of contention because of the stop.

Corby had joint best dressage (25) in his section with Brook Staples and Jazz Dancing Star. It all went very wrong in the SJ which is most unusual with Corby as I fell off. He took off a bit oddly over one jump and we crashed through it with me up Corby's neck, I apparently looked like a ragdoll as I flew up his neck then came off. We got eliminated so obviously didn't get to do XC so not the best results with my two for the day apart from their dressage but I was really pleased with Kylie and pleased with Tango really as it was his first BE event and his behaviour, particularly as he's a stallion was very good.

I used the Prolite Event boots I recently got from Dragonfly as you'll see from my earlier post. The horses were also wearing their Griffin NuuMed saddlecloths. The dressage ones are really smart and I'll get a photo at the next event to show how well they fit. The close contact ones are great as you'll see from the picture of Tango in the Prolite post as he's also wearing his smart new saddlecloth too!

http://www.dragonflysaddlery.co.uk/addtocart.asp?categoryid=23&subcatid=107&hr=h&categoryname=Saddle+Accessories&subcatname=Griffin+Nuumed&itemid=531

Prolite Event Boots

2011-07-20T07:49:00.000-07:00

Tango in his Prolite Boots!!

I bit overdue but as promised here's my review on the great set of Prolite Event boots from Dragonfly Saddlery.

I tested these out at Eridge on Tango and have been using them on all of the horses since. I've had Prolite boots before and they really do last well.

What I love about the recent set I got from Dragonfly is how light they are and how great the velcro is. They stay in place really well and are in exactly the same place you put them on once you've finished a XC round which is just what you need and there is also no need for tape over the velcro as I find it really strong.

They are also great through water as they don't get heavy and filled with water like some boots do. They also look smart too and offer great protection. I honestly can't fault them!

If you're looking to upgrade or replace I definitely recommend!!

http://www.dragonflysaddlery.co.uk/addtocart.asp?categoryid=11&subcatid=211&hr=h&categoryname=Boots&subcatname=X%2DCountry+Boots&itemid=351

June Update

2011-06-30T16:29:00.000-07:00

I've been really busy recently with lots of exciting stuff and must remember to keep my blog up to date!!!

It was Rackham last weekend where Corby was 2nd in his BE100 section. I was also riding Cinderbanks a new ride I have this year, we had a few faults in the SJ and one stop XC but hopefully will improve on this throughout the season.

We've also had more lorry issues which will hopefully now be resolved with two new batteries which will be fitted shortly!

On Tuesday this week I went to my new sponsor Dragonfly Saddlery. I picked up some great bits including schooling and XC boots and some reins. I tested out the boots XC on Wednesday when I took Tango to Lodge Farm to have a run round before his first BE event at Eridge on Saturday. I also took Percy round for Anna, I've been staying with me for schooling whilst Anna has had a break to have her baby. Tango went really well and was nice and calm. Percy was a little strong and excited but did really well as he hasn't really done much but really does enjoy jumping!

The lovely embroided saddlecloths and rugs have arrived from Dragonfly and some photos are below.

More detailed blogs to follow with Eridge report and I'll be posting more info on all the great new kit.

New Sponsor - DRAGONFLY SADDLERY

2011-06-01T08:56:00.000-07:00

I am very excited to announce that Dragonfly Saddlery in Hassocks, West Sussex will be sponsoring me this year.

They have given me a very generous allowance to purchase new equipment. A lot of the horses kit is well overdue for replacing so it will be fabulous to be able to get essentials like brushing boots to replace the ones with holes in that I've had for years!

As you know competing horses isn't cheap, especially BE, so to have the support of Dragonfly for equipment etc really is great.

For those of you who haven't visited Dragonfly you must http://www.dragonflysaddlery.co.uk/! They are a lovely family team, Sue, Richard, Laura & Holly Paine and have a great range of stock. Richard is a qualified saddler and has been fitting saddles for over 20 years.

Dragonfly also stock items for pets too, great if you have a lorry load of dogs like me! They are also great for cross country colours so if you need a new set look no further!

Sue and Richard Paine

Dragonfly Saddlery

The Goods Shed

Station Business Park

Keymer Road

Hassocks

West Sussex BN6 8J

Phone: 01273 844 372 or 01273 844 606

Freephone: 0800 374878

Opening Hours:

Monday to Saturday : 9.00 - 5.30

Sunday : 10.00 - 3.00

sales@dragonflysaddlery.co.uk

www.dragonflysaddlery.co.uk

Chilham Park ODE - 15 May 2011

2011-05-30T11:51:00.000-07:00

I had 3 to ride at Chilham. I took Tango & Bobby and I also rode Beau for Marilyn.

It was a long day as unfortunately a rider had a fall on the XC and was taken away by Air Ambulance. This put everything back by over an hour as the Dressage, SJ and XC had to be stopped whilst the Air Ambulance was on it's way and wait for it to take off and clear the area.

Hopefully the lady involved is out of hospital now, I did see an update on Facebook which said she had no broken bones etc and was being kept in for observation.

Beau won his class he had a 31 for dressage, the best in his section, one pole down and finished on 35 penalties.

Tango had a 34.5 dressage, he wasn't concentrating too well after his wait on the lorry! Clear SJ and unfortunately had one stop at the water. I was still pleased with him though as apart from the stop he had a good round.

Bobby had the best dressage in his section, 29, clear SJ but unfortunately we got eliminated XC. The course was up to height and it just wasn't our day, which is a shame after how well he went at Ardingly!

Beau - 1st, best dressage in his section

Tango - unfortunate stop at the water but otherwise a good day!

Nurstead Court - 30 April 2011

2011-05-18T07:24:00.000-07:00

Took Corby & Holly Hot Lips to Nurstead. Corbs did the BE100 and Holly the Open BE100.

I've been waiting for the day Corbster gets placed 1st in a BE100 as he is so consistent he is usually placed and it happened at Nurstead. He is so good, always has a good dressage and is a good jumper and is bold XC. He got 26.5 dressage, double clear with just 2 XC time penalties. I'm so pleased with him and he really deserved his first with his great record.

Holly is feeling good again and hopefully next event will be Open Novice. She had a dressage score of 31.5 and double clear with no time penalties which put her in 6th place.

I'm not sure yet whether to do Borde Hill as the ground is still so hard. After that next event will probably be Berkshire College.

Corbs is still for sale, can't quite believe that he hasn't been found yet as he is so consistent he'd be a great horse for someone and is good looking too!!

Rother Valley Riding Club - Easter Dressage Monday 25 April 2011

2011-05-18T07:08:00.000-07:00

I went to Bedgebury on Easter Monday with Tango, Bobby and Corby. I also rode 2 tests with Beau, Marilyn Warwick's horse, who I normally school around once a week.

I enjoy going to Bedgebury, it's great to have such a good venue nearby, I'm looking forward to seeing the Cross Country course completed too.

Another well run event by my riding club, Rother Valley, they hold lots of events through the year and are always popular.

I had another great day with wins or placings in each of the classes I entered.

Prelim 18 - 1st Beau - 72.50%

Novice 27 - 5th Beau - 63.57%

Novice 24 - 2nd Tango - 66.92%

Novice 24 - 4th Bobby - 57.30%

Elementary 40 - 1st Corby - 69.35%

Beau went really well and I was very pleased with him, he hasn't done a Novice test before so his 5th was really good.

Tango was well behaved, I originally was going to bring Holly to do the Elementary test but she was in season so thought with Tango on the box too it was better to take Corbster!

Bobby's mark doesn't quite show how well he can do, he managed 57% despite me going wrong in the test and he got distracted at one point by a ditch the other side of the indoor school! But the rest of the test was good and he got some nice comments.

Ardingly Riding Club ODE - 17 April 2011

2011-05-18T06:47:00.003-07:00

I had a great day at Ardingly Riding Club unaffilated ODE. It's a great event and well run. I had 3 to ride, Tango & Bobby as well as Cracker for Deb Shillabeer. Couldn't really have had a much better day as they were all placed 1st!

Tango went really well 30.5 dressage, double clear and 8 time penalties XC. He was great through the water as that is his only sticking point, he's very bold with everything else considering he hasn't really done an awful lot.

Bobby had a 27.6 dressage, double clear and 3.2 time penalties. Again really pleased with Bobby as he hasn't been out much this year.

Cracker had a great dressage of 24.5 unfortunate pole down in SJ and 3.2 time penalties (for going too fast - not bad for a little cob!). Cracker is going really well and I school her normally weekly for Debs, she is a lovely little mare. I'm a bit late adding this post live as with the others, had written them but forgot to post. Since drafting Debs took Cracker to Mattingly on 7 May and came 6th in BE90 so they're doing really well together.

Below are links to the official photographer's website with photos of Tango, Cracker & Bobby.

Let's hope we can continue with the winning spree!

Tango

http://www.everybodysmile.biz/spidgeeventphotography/eques/124970/page_es1.php?Cat=200%20Lisa%20Pilbeam

Bobby

http://www.everybodysmile.biz/spidgeeventphotography/eques/124970/page_es100.php?Cat=326%20Lisa%20Pilbeam

Cracker

http://www.everybodysmile.biz/spidgeeventphotography/eques/124970/page_es45.php?Cat=254%20Lisa%20Pilbeam

South of England - Saturday 9th April

2011-04-13T01:59:00.000-07:00

Second outing of the season for Corby & Holly was SOE.

After my fall with Holly in the SJ at Goring (see previous post!) I thought it was a good idea to see if I could move classes with Holly from the Open Novice to the Open BE100. Sarah Robinson the secretary for SOE was great and sorted this out for me. Holly went well with a 28.5 dressage and a double clear we ended on our dressage score in 3rd place. Holly felt great and just like the old Holly again. She's entered for the Open BE100 at Nurstead then I'll do a couple of Open Novices then we should be back up to Open Intermediates.

Photo: Pip Simpson

Corbster had another good day too. He had a 34 dressage which is unusual and he did feel like he went better then that, but was very good again giving a nice double clear, 2 time penalties XC put us in 5th place. Pippa Funnell won the class on one of her Billy Stud's horses - Billy Crackle. Corby is also entered for Nurstead in the BE100.

Busy week this week, schooling for Marilyn, Debs & Anna. Hopefully XC at Lodge Farm on Wednesday. Taking an RVRC clinic on Saturday at Lodge Farm and then the Ardingly Riding Club Unaffliated ODE on Sunday. I'll be riding Tango, Bobby and Debs horse, Cracker. Will update blog to let you know how I got on!

I'm going to be doing a few more unaffilated ODEs locally with Tango before he's signed up for a half season BE. I'm lucky that there are some good ones that are run in the area, Ardingly, Chilham, Pulborough, Borde Hill and my Riding Club Rother Valley, Sevenoaks RC also run great ones just to name a few!

Goring Heath - Sunday 3rd April - First BE event of the season!

2011-04-13T01:45:00.000-07:00

I went to Goring Heath with Holly (Cullawn Holly) and Corby (Cullawn My Way). Holly was entered in the Open Novice for her first event of the season and Corby in the BE100.

Unfortuanately things didn't go to plan in the SJ with Holly! She was jumping really well - as you can see below (photos to follow!!) but we didn't get our striding right coming into the double and she took of took early sending me flying into the next fence! So that explains the cricket score - we don't usually have that many faults! I really hurt my elbow and strapped it up for the rest of the day. I withdrew Holly and did not do the XC with her.

Corby was very good, he was really up for it his first event of the season and couldn't wait to get out of the start box XC! He did a good dressage test 27.5 (2nd after dressage) then a double clear ending up completing in 2nd place. I was really pleased with him and all the better considering I had a dodgy arm!

Got it looked at and also went to A&E. Had an xray but they said it was badly bruised and to rest it and put ice on it. Perhaps haven't rested it as much as I should have and still have interesting colour arm but I'm getting there, wanted to do South of England anyway! Next blog on that!

Firle Hunter Trials - 26 March 2011

2011-04-06T10:11:00.000-07:00

Took Tango & Bobby to Firle Hunter Trials on Saturday 26 March 2011. It was an early start but well worth the journey and I'm really pleased how they both went.

Bobby went clear. Tango had a sticky moment at the first water but went through and didn't hesitate at the second water. I'm really pleased with him as water has been his only problem. Apart from that he felt really bold and I'm very excited that I'll be eventing him this year it's particularly exciting as I've had him since he was a yearling and backed him myself. I'm planning on doing Ardingly, Chilham and Pulborough unaffilated ODEs before a half season of BE. His flatwork is coming on really well, occasionally I lose his attention but that's probably because he's a stallion too. He is great SJ and respects bigger fences!

Eventers Practice Day - Golden Cross 21 March 2011

2011-03-22T11:50:00.000-07:00

I took Tango, Corby and Ollie to the Golden Cross Eventers Practice Day on Monday.

Really pleased with how they all went, especially Tango as he behaved well and felt under control. Being a stallion he can be a bit challenging at times, he seems to respect bigger fences though and jumped well. I took him in the Intro class and he just had one down. Looking forward to taking him to Firle at the weekend to do the Cross Country, I'll be putting his neck strap on though!

Corby had a clear in the Novice class and Ollie had two clears in the Novice. Mum took a couple of pictures of Ollie on Monday which are at the bottom of this blog entry.

Really busy week this week which I like. We'll be XC schooling tomorrow and then Firle on Saturday. Not long til Goring our first event of the season - can't wait. All entered for South of England too with Corby and Holly.

RVRC Chilly Fingers SJ - 19 March 2011

2011-03-21T10:54:00.001-07:00

Took Ace & Bobby to my Riding Club's (Rother Valley) members showjumping on Saturday. Mum also took Sam.

I've only just bought Ace in to school and he behaved really well considering it was his first outing. Poppy came along to help us she's been helping me out on Saturdays and spent some time sitting on Ace and went down the lane with him.

I took him into the practice arena but I think it would have been too soon for me to take him round a course as there were plenty of fillers etc. Still it was a positive first experience and I'm pleased how he behaved with the atmosphere and surroundings

Anna brought Percy over who I've been schooling and I did two classes with him the 2'3 and 2'6. He's only been round a few SJ courses with Anna. He did really well and we got 2 double clears. He has got a pop on him for a cob! He is a bit spooky but not at the fences he loves jumping. He really didn't like the turkey on Shane's Farm that was wandering around with a few chickens and it took a bit of encouragement to get him past it!

Percy

Marilyn also brought Beau over to do the 2'9" and 3'. Unfortunately we had to leave so I couldn't do the 3' with Beau but he did a lovely jump off and came 2nd in the 2'9". Bobby also went well in the same class and came 5th. Mum went clear in the first round but had one down in the jump off.

Beau & Bobby

Photos taken by Dom Witham - www.ggtack.com

The New Season is Just about to Start!!

2011-02-23T07:23:00.001-08:00

I'm very excited about the start of the new season. Corby is all ready and entered for Munstead at the end of March.

I'm hoping to get Tango out too to his first BE event. I'll be taking him XC schooling every week until his first event.

Just deciding what event to do with Holly first, going to do an Open Novice to start with and build her confidence back up so we're doing the bigger stuff by the end of the season.

Still looking for rides - any owners out there I'm ready and waiting for your horse(s)!!!

For Sale! Corby, Ollie & Bobby!

2011-02-23T06:56:00.000-08:00

I have a couple for sale at the moment from little 14.2 Bobby to 16.2 Corby! All lovely only for sale so I can continue to fund all the events and costs this season.

There are a few videos on my Youtube account http://www.youtube.com/user/LisaPilbeam1

Please contact me for further information

Corby - Cullawn My Way

Ollie

Photo: Les Brown - Topham Brown http://www.topham-brownphotography.co.uk/_/Welcome.html

Bobby - Beechmount Bobby

Equine Social Media Awards - Voting closed awaiting results!!!

2011-02-23T06:48:00.000-08:00

Voting has now closed for the ESMAs and I'm awaiting the results, hopefully the winners will be announced sometime after 7 March.

I recorded my acceptance video at the yard, we had a few takes and it was a little windy. Found it difficult to do as I've not done anything like it before. I find it easier to talk when someone is asking questions rather than me doing a speech! I probably won't win though so the the video might not get seen!

I've enjoyed being involved in the ESMAs. It was a great idea set up and run by Liam at Abbeyview Equine and Rhea Freeman. They must have put in a lot of hours to sort it all out.

My sponsor, Blue Chip, were also in two categories hopefully they will be winners too. I'll keep you posted but in the meantime if you'd like to see the great work that Liam & Rhea did please visit http://abbeyviewequine.com/awards

Equine Social Media Awards - Finalist!

2011-01-16T08:57:00.000-08:00

I was very pleased to find out that I'm a finalist in the Equine Social Media Awards - Category 6 Amateur Rider! Thank you to everyone who nominated to help me become a finalist. Although one of the smaller categories, competition is tough there are some great Blogs, Facebook and Twitter pages out there!

Hopefully you enjoy all of my Website, Twitter, Blog and Facebook updates. My new year resolution is to update everything more often. I find with all of the horses at the yard to look after and ride plus the schooling and clipping I do on top of my work in the pub in the evenings time is sometimes quite limited.

Also everything I do is a learning experience. As I left school at 16 and have been working with the horses until a couple of years ago marketing was new to me. I realise how important it is and it doesn't matter how good you can ride if you don't market yourself no one will know about you!! I've still a long way to go and networking scares me!

I've been really lucky with the continued support I've had from Blue Chip, my only sponsor. Blue Chip have also made it on the finalist list in two categories please support them too!

I hope that through the world wide web more people will see what I do, hopefully like it and join the team! I'd love to obtain more sponsors and to get my first owner on board. I realise the competition is very tough there are so many good riders out there - hoping someone gives me that break and I can continue to prove myself.

If you feel I'm worthy for a vote please visit http://abbeyviewequine.com/awards to cast your vote. I think voting closes on 18 February. Also you can only vote once as if you vote more than once all votes are invalidated.

Thank you again to everyone who supports me.

TTFN! Lisa

Abbey View Equine Social Media Awards - Nominations close Christmas Eve midday!

2010-12-22T01:55:00.000-08:00

Check out Abbey View Equine Social Media Awards

http://abbeyviewequine.com/awards

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Equestrian-Social-Media-Awards/140143932707084

http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/397/304566.html

If you enjoy my blog, twitter and facebook updates please nominate me. Nominations close on Christmas eve at midday!

Thank you

Happy Christmas!

2010-12-21T00:10:00.001-08:00

A festive picture!

Happy Christmas & a great New Year to everyone.

More snow again - so inconvenient with horses I'd like to get back into the normal routine. It's just a shame we don't have an indoor school, that would solve a lot of problems! Santa if you're reading.........

RVRC - Christmas SJ - Sunday 12 December 2010

2010-12-14T10:01:00.000-08:00

I was due to take Tango to my riding club's (Rother Valley) Xmas SJ at Bedgebury Park. I got Tango loaded and ready to go but the lorry wouldn't start!!! I managed to get it started with jump leads but for various reasons was not able to make it which was a real pity!

I still went as I was also due to ride Marilyn Warwick's horse Beau, who I regularly school.

I did the 2'9" - 3' class as well as the Puissance! There were only 3 clears in the 2'9, Beau unfortunately got 4 faults just glancing the top plank jump 6. He did a great round though and jumps so nicely. All the schooling is definitely working and he really is very responsive and a pleasure to jump.

I haven't really been jumping him much higher than 3' and that has just been at his stables in the school. He's only done a few courses recently. Marilyn was happy for me to take him in the Puissance and very glad we did as he won! Really pleased with him he really tried and ended up clearing just over 4'. Sorry no pictures of this one it was getting dark and my friend took some pictures but they are too blurry! So afraid you won't get to see me with a santa hat over my riding hat!

Bedgebury is really nice venue and it's great to see it being used again and all the work that is going into it to make it top class. They hold clear round on Wednesday and course hire on Thursdays so I think I'll be taking some of mine over to get some winter practice in. They also have a winter series of unaffilated dressage and affilated which is great with Bedgebury being one of nearest venues to me.

South East Eventers League (SEEL) Ball - Saturday 4 December 2010

2010-12-14T09:35:00.000-08:00

photo taken by: Lulu Kyriacou

Had a great time at the SEEL Seahorse Ball on Saturday 4 December. A group of 12 friends came to enjoy the evening at the Hop Farm in Paddock Wood.

Holly and I were placed in two of the categories this year - 2nd in the Leading Mare and 6th in the Leading Owner/Rider.

There was less opportunity this year for Holly and I to gain lots of points as we are competing at Open Intermediate and also moved up to Advanced.

Dinner at the ball was melon (must admit I prefer my fruit for pudding!) traditional turkey dinner and chocolate fudge cake. The chocolate fudge cake was huge! I put all of the left over cake onto one plate and we challenged Matthew to eat the lot - he did very well but didn't quite manage it!

As usual lots of drinks were consumed and I spent a large part of the evening on the Bronco Bull. I was leading for most of the evening on 64 seconds. Pipped at the post by Sam Penn who managed to stay on for 70 seconds I couldn't better it with my best score being 67 seconds! I have really been feeling the pain though with blisters on my knees and they are only just healing!

I spotted Sharon Hunt and Sasha Pemble on the bull too! I also saw Alex Hua Tian who was collecting an award.

The SEEL is great and there are so many people that put in a lot of effort to make sure the league keeps running and obviously all of the sponsors too who are very generous.

Fingers crossed for next year - who knows with Lady now back in work she may feature in the Leading Mare again!!

Goodbye Duffy!

2010-11-18T02:41:00.000-08:00

Duffy ("Cullawn Celtic King") left for his new home this morning. Very sad to see him go but I couldn't have wished for a better home for him.

Thank you Ceri for choosing Duffy I hope you have as much fun and success as I did with him.

Thankfully Duffy hasn't moved far and I look forward to following his progress with Ceri next year!

Not sure what to do with myself now - one less to ride!!

Tandy!

2010-08-17T05:50:00.000-07:00

A few more pictures of Tango and Lady's foal (see what we've done with the name - Tango- lady!

These were taken by Laurance when Tandy was 2 days old. She's growing very fast and getting very cheeky, hopefully put some updated pictures on soon.

Sevenoaks RC - ODE 15 August 2010

2010-08-16T05:57:00.000-07:00

Another busy week finished ready to start another busy week!

When I'm not competing I usually have Sundays off so last week has been a 7 day week but a very productive one!

I took Tango and Bobby to the Sevenoaks Riding Club Unaffilated ODE yesterday. It's a lovely event and always well set up. I was also riding Marilyn Warwick's horse Beau who I've been schooling regularly. Fantastic result with Beau, he won his class with 31 dressage and just 5 time penalties XC. Bobby unfortunately spooked at another horse who was warming up by the arena but still got a respectable 31.5 in his dressage. I've never done a dressage test in an arena on Tango and it was his so he did really well getting 36.5. He can fight a little when I take up the contact and put his head up so this is where we lost the marks, still very good though for his first competition and encouraging.

Beau had a clear SJ, Bobby went clear with 1 time penalty. Tango unfortunately had the last one down but otherwise went well.

Sevenoaks RC were very accommodating, as I had 3 to ride in the same class the timings were a problem. I was the last to go XC and jumped Beau, Bobby then Tango to finish. Marilyn and Dad were lined up with each of them and as soon as I finished one I was on the next!

Beau and Bobby both went clear, Bobby picking up 6 more time penalties than Beau. Tango was eliminated at the water, which was at the end of the course. It was a little frustrating but all in all for his first event I am delighted with him, especially as he is a stallion and he was very well behaved and level headed. I'll be taking him to Lodge Farm on Wednesday to get him going through the water! I rode Bobby and Tango both HC, Bobby would have ended up 6th.

I've entered Holly in Firle Open Novice to hopefully have a confidence boosting clear XC. Then hopefully be doing South of England or Twesledown. Can't believe we are heading towards the end of the season already!

Long overdue post - not enough hours in the day, week, year!!

2010-08-13T05:18:00.000-07:00

I find myself apologising again for the lack of blog entries!! Just realised it's Friday the 13th!

I have been so busy recently any spare time I have I'm too tired to do anything!

Most exciting news recently is that James and I bought a house!!! I'm spending every spare hour sanding walls, ripping up skirting boards and painting. It's looking a bit bare at the moment and trying to get the furniture we need.

I have been working very hard on the yard too. Holly, Corby, Bobby and Tango to ride every day at the moment. Duffy has had a little break so I can concentrate on Tango and I've also been given the opportunity to school a few more horses which has been great. I've been schooling Beau for a while now and am also schooling Pandora a sweet Welsh mare who is at the same stables.

Also helping bring on a lovely coloured mare, first sat on her on Tuesday and she was very good considering she has only recently been backed.

I'm taking Bobby and Tango to the Sevenoaks Riding Club ODE on Sunday which I'm looking forward too, I'll also be riding Beau there.

I had a great lesson with Sharon Hunt a few weeks ago, she was so friendly and helpful. Holly hasn't been on form recently we've had a few problems XC since moving up to Advanced. Hopefully with Sharon's advice we'll be back on track soon. Holly is such a lovely mare that I don't want to rush things so I'll bring her back down a level or two to get her confidence back up and go from there.

We were due to compete at my favourite event The Festival of British Eventing at Gatcombe as we'd qualified for the Intermediate British Championships. Laurance kindly paid for this event and I was really looking forward to going. I withdrew Holly though as although disappointing it really is a championship standard course and as we're not quite on key at the moment I thought it best to get some confidence boosting rounds in first. Very well done to Sharon Hunt on her 2nd in the Novice Championships. My lesson was just before Gatcombe and I'd said to Sharon how much I love the event, I'm really pleased she is doing so well especially after the disappointment of the WEG selection. It is lovely at Bedgebury they've made some real improvements and I'm looking forward to going back.

As well as all the yard work and riding I did a bit of painting and decorating to earn some extra money to help with events and the mortgage (can't believe I've got a mortgage to pay now!) I'm also still working in the pub. Not quite sure how I got through those weeks first thing at the yard, decorating 8-12, then back up the yard to ride and some evenings working in the pub!

Lady's foal is doing really well and growing, she is very cheeky!

Must sit down and plan the next events. Hopefully maybe get a few more points to help towards the SEEL Rankings with Holly, before we know it it'll be November anyway and the ball! Not sure where this year has gone!

I'll plan to do another update next week after the Sevenoaks Riding Club ODE!

TTFN, Lisa

Lady's foal is here!!!!!! - 14 July 2010

2010-07-14T01:58:00.000-07:00

So exciting - Lady's foal arrived this morning about 2-3am. A gorgeous bay filly foal!! Lady was very clever and delivered her by herself, Mum and Dad checked on Lady at Midnight and there was no sign of a foal when Dad got to the stables around 6am there they were!

Still thinking about names, any suggestions let me know!

I'm back!!

2010-07-12T12:37:00.000-07:00

Can't believe it has been so long since I updated the blog, getting a bit behind with the admin!!

Lots has been happening, been very busy working (on and off the yard) especially to pay for events and training!

Having a good season with lots of good results. One unfortuate result with Corby he would have come 6th at BCA but 20 penalties was incorrectly put against us instead of the rider in front who refused and should have been eliminated at the fence. We ended up 21st very disappointed especially as it costs so much (time and money) to event. We'd gone home knowing that we'd done a double clear and I was expecting to come about 8th and knew I'd forfeit the rosette but when Mum and I have a yard full of horses to sort out when we get home thought we get on the road. We couldn't then object within the 30 minute rule and that was that! Anyway rant over (for this post anyway!).

I will sit down and draft a full report of what I've been up to in the last couple of months and hopefully get it posted this week or next.

Another busy week this week with preperations for Brightling. I'm taking Holly in the CIC**, Corbster in the BE100 and little Bobster in the BE90, future superstar!

Finally sorry to all who may have visted the blog and seen it is way out of date!!

Not quite finally - finally the most important and exciting news....... Lady is due to foal any day now watch here for updates and I'll post a picture!

TTFN!! Lisa

Hot Weather, plus Houghton Hall with Holly Hot Lips!

2010-05-24T13:30:00.000-07:00

What lovely weather, although in a very British way I'd say a little too hot for riding! I jumped Holly late yesterday evening as it was far too hot to do so comfortably in the day!

We're off to Houghton Hall for the 3 day ** which I'm really looking forward to. I'll be double checking the red and white flags when walking the XC!

Corby had a good result at Mattingly coming 9th in the BE100, he had a 29.5 dressage which is good but he didn't go quite so well as he usually does so probably lost a few marks.

Mum was elimated with Sam on the XC, unfortunately there was a change on the course at the water, not having to jump in the water, Mum still jumped in the water and got eliminated, on the plus side she had a great round with Sam and he jumped everything and would have gone clear.

Belton Report - Advanced (U25)

2010-04-19T05:36:00.000-07:00

The day started at about 4 am on Saturday morning, leaving the yard at around 5 am to get to Belton for my 11:37 dressage! Mum, me, Holly and my friend Anna were packed into the lorry for the trek up to Lincolnshire. The benefit of leaving so early in the morning is that there is hardly any other vehicles on the road!

The journey was relatively straightforward until we got to the end of the M11 to join the A1, we had a few issues there and ended up going back on ourselves and having about a 20 minute detour! We didn't have a Sat Nav (no where to plug it in the lorry!) we had printed out directions although they aren't much use when you go off route! Anna found an old map down the back of the seat that had been savaged by the Jack Russells, several pages missing chunks but thankfully not the pages we needed! Got back to where we should have been and all was well until we were very close to Belton! We turned left at some traffic lights, which is what the directions said and ended up in the middle of a built up residential area. We saw a group of builders up some scaffolding and stopped to ask them directions. Unfortunately Anna didn't get their names but they were really helpful and drew us some directions that were spot on! Moral of the story - listen to Mum she's always right and knows where she's going!

Arrived at Belton to beautiful sunshine it was such a lovely place! So many smart horses boxes very envious of many of them especially the ones with living areas! I dream one day of owning a lovely smart box with my XC colours on it (you'd definitely see it coming - those who have seen my XC colours will know why!).

It was all set out really well at Belton and there were loads of trade stands, lots for all the visitors to see with dog agility, classic cars, driving and showjumping, I saw William Whitaker go round!

Dressage

I started warming Holly up for her dressage about 10:50. It always takes a long time to get Holly going well as she is tense to start with and gets really excited, just wants to get on with the jumping bits! Before we were called to go in she was going nicely and had relaxed a little so I was hoping for an ok test. When going round the arena the Judge sounded the horn. We went past the entrance again as not quite ready, unfortunately this upset the Judge and I was told not to go past the entrance once the bell has sounded as they would run over time. I'm aware of the 45 second rule and was sorry to have upset the Judge, a lesson learned for the future. The poor Judge though, the next competitor did exactly the same as me!

The test was ok, I was pleased with her flying changes. She broke in the half pass and was tense in the walk, there was a lot going on around and she's not used to really big events like this so all good experience. Ended up with a 45.9 which wasn't too bad I think about 12th after the dressage. Some nice comments from both judges about Holly and given me pointers on what to work on.

Showjumping

Not much to say here apart from what a little superstar! We were one of only 4 that had a SJ clear, so pleased with her. After the great clear round we'd moved up to around 6th.

Horsepower Photography

Cross Country

We'd walked the course on Saturday. Didn't really like the look of the corner at no 5. It was causing quite a few riders concerns and subsequently was changed slightly, although I chose to take the long route here as did several other riders, I heard on the PA system that Andrew Nicholson had gone the long route so that confirmed it for me! The fence I was worried about most was no 4 just because of the width of it, a huge white tabletop! The drop into the water was also one I was a little worried about although Mum more than me!

Everything jumped fine. Now for the most irritating bit...... number 13! Number 13 was a long bar with a corner with some wooden squirrels in front of it! It was after a big rail into a clump of trees. Holly jumped number 12 really big, I tried to turn left but just didn't get her to it right and we had a run out taking the red flag with us. I circled and came back and jumped over the left hand part of the jump over the rail and continued on.

It was a long galloping courses and very bold jumps another rail followed soon after with great big boulders underneath it again not a problem for Holly. She jumped the everything else well coming up to the water. The marina complex had a skinny house one stride after house to huge drop! She jumped the house fine then when she landed she saw the great big drop thought about it, thankfully after I jumped the house I'd taken my hand off the rein and had my whip in hand, gave her a tap and she leapt from a standstill down into the water. She is so honest she really didn't have to do that and looked after me there! We splashed through the water and popped over the boat going out. Lots of applause there which was really nice. Anna was videoing this bit, you'll have to look on You Tube when the videos are uploaded she nearly dropped the camera when everyone gasped as Holly leapt off the drop. She said she heard a couple of people saying well sat! I got a fab photo from Horsepower photography!

Horsepower Photography

The cottage after water complex was really wide and I wondered whether we were going to get over that, she did the next sequence beautifully too then over a big chair and to the pig arcs. She jumped the arcs text book and I managed to turn her mid air to the second arc. The down over the marquee, again fine up over the case complex, over the big Bedmax jump then log brush to finish. I was absolutely delighted with her I think we were about a minute and a half over time.

Anna went off to film the course to show my Dad as he was left at home to look after all the horses. We don't have any grooms or any staff so it's a little difficult especially when events have an overnight stay.

After Anna filmed the course she went to see the results. That's when she saw a big E in the XC section. Confused and Anna being Anna she went to find out why I had got eliminated! We'd already had the postmortem after I got back so she knew that I'd rejumped the corner after the refusal although the left hand side of it the rail rather than the actual corner. She explained this to the lady in the information tent, who was very helpful, the information that was relayed back was that I was eliminated because when I retook the fence I jumped the Intermediate fence.

We all didn't understand that as that fence was not in the Intermediate course and that's when we queried it further. This upset a few people unfortunately but I wanted to get the position clear as I hadn't jumped a different fence and as the white flag was on the end of the jump I thought it should have been fine. It then became clear later that there was another white flag on the other end of the jump behind the tree so we hadn't jumped in-between both flags. This is a mistake that I am very annoyed with but one to learn from and I'm sure I'll never do this again when I walk a course I'll be making sure I look for all the flags! It's a shame about the miscommunication as there is no way we would have raised the issue if we hadn't been told that I'd jumped the Intermediate fence, I respect all fence judges and officials for the jobs they do particularly as most are volunteers and so essential and valued. I was in good company though Nicola Wilson unfortunately missed out two jumps and was eliminated in the CIC***.

As it was Holly's first Advanced I'm delighted with how she did, it's been a great education too and that's what it's all about. I've learnt from it and I'd think about how do things differently in the future. Also it was a long galloping course, Holly is fit but I'll be getting her even fitter she was tiring on the straights a little on the way home.

I'm hoping to do the OI at Aston in May then hopefully we will have been accepted for Tatterstalls. I will do another Advanced later on, I was hoping to do the Hartbury 3 day but it is looking extremely unlikely because of funding. We should be going to Blenheim in September though thanks to James' dad!

Videos will be uploaded on You Tube soon!

Update!

2010-04-15T08:24:00.000-07:00

Sorry it's been a while since I updated my blog! Having a great season so far and I'm so happy to be out competing!

Holly Hot Lips has been fab this year, early days but I think we're still leading in the SEEL (South East Eventers League!) and I am really excited about Belton this weekend! I've got my times now, 11:37 dressage on Saturday, 10:04 SJ on Sunday and 12:00 XC on Sunday! We will be staying at a place about 10 miles away from Belton and Holly will be on site too. After a 2 for our walk at Somerley (well ok she wasn't walking, she was jogging!) I have been walking her on the top field every morning. She just gets so excited at events, particularly around the XC. I also had a dressage lesson this week with Liz West and hopefully have mastered (fingers crossed) our flying changes. We went to Lodge Farm on Wednesday to test out her brakes, decided to stay with the 3 ring on the 2nd hole, it's not that she is being too strong just really keen!

Corby is a little superstar! He has only done a couple of BE100's but his last event at SOE he was very good, tied with Sam Penn (who is having a fantastic season especially with her BYEH champion, Tickerage, he's lovely!) after dressage in his section, just a few time penalties meant we were 10th but I am delighted with him for so little outings he has done very well. It is very sad that he is for sale but he really is the nicest horse and I'm sure because of it will be totally adored wherever he goes! He really is so handsome, I reckon he'd also make a top Working Hunter! I've got a photo from SOE (Julia Shearwood) on order to put him on Horsequest :( !!

Duffy is doing well too, just out of the placings coming 11th at SOE, he and Corby are both entered for Nurstead on 24/25 April. Like all of my horses Duffy has been brought on by me from scratch and I'm sorry that he is for sale too. He always does a nice dressage test and is so bold XC and really looks after his jockey snaffle mouth at all times.

I'll be very sad when the boys go as will be a bit down on horsepower! However, I've got the excitement of doing more with Tango, aiming for the BYEH classes and little Bobby. Bobs really is a lovely mover and I'm looking forward doing Intro events with him later this season. I really enjoy taking the horses through the grades it's so rewarding.

Anyway, I'll write again after the weekend and no doubt I'll be doing some Twitter and Facebook updates over the weekend! As I've only Holly to ride this weekend I'm looking forward to having some time to see the trade stands at Belton and being a spectator too watching the likes of Oliver Townend and Kristina Cook go round!

Somerley Park International (CIC**) - 31 March - 7th!!

2010-04-01T05:26:00.000-07:00

I was at Somerley with Holly Tuesday and yesterday for the ** and am pleased to report we came 7th!

There were around 65 starters although 11 withdraw at the SJ because of the conditions. It was really very sticky in the SJ because of the heavy rain particuarly overnight on Tuesday. Only 7 clear rounds in total of which Holly's was one.

I rewalked the XC and thankfully the sun came out and the wind picked up so it dried out a bit, one fence was removed because it was waterlogged. We had a great round XC, one small sticky moment at the water with two skinnies, but got back safely with a nice clear round only about 13 seconds over time (5.2 pens). I used my new watch, first time I've ever gone round with one which I think helped. I remember looking at the watch about half way round and already 4 minutes had gone so I kicked on!

Great result as this helps me to get the qualification I need to do *** later in the year, if I'm able to secure funding!!!

Next event with Holly is Belton on 16 April the Advanced (U25). I'll be at South of England with Duffy and Corby on the 10th.

Well done Corbs!!

2010-03-27T13:03:00.000-07:00

Came 1st with Corby at Munstead today, he had the best dressage in his section (26).

Mum got a double clear with Sam and just missed out on a placing coming 11th.

Looking forward to taking Corbs round South of England BE100!

Topham-Brown Photography

2010-03-26T06:29:00.000-07:00

I had a fun photo shoot with Les Brown (Topham-Brown Photography) on Tuesday. He took some great photos and hopefully I'll get a few on here and the website soon!

http://www.topham-brownphotography.co.uk

Cullawn Celtic King "Duffy"

Munstead - 27 March 2010

2010-03-26T06:27:00.000-07:00

Off to Munstead tomorrow with Corbster! Took him XC schooling on Weds, he was a good boy and jumped everything. Mum will be taking Sam too and our times are about a minute apart!

The week has been ok although not fun in the rain yesterday! Marilyn brought Beau over and I did some jumping with him, he went nicely.

Holly's stable is booked at Somerley and accommodation is booked for Belton!

Dressage with Bobby & Beau

2010-03-17T23:50:00.000-07:00

Had a successful day yesterday, took Bobby out for his first dressage competition and he came 2nd!

I was also riding Marilyn Warwick's horse Beau. I've been schooling Beau for Marilyn and this is the third dressage competition I have ridden him at. The last 2 outings we came 3rd but yesterday Beau did a lovely test and beat Bobby to 1st place!

Mum took Sam too and he came 5th so we had a good morning. Going to take Holly up the gallops today and probably Corby too. Corby has been going really nicely and I've been testing out my new optimum time watch taking him round the greyhound track at home, hopefully he will be back up to Pre Novice (sorry BE100!) speed by South of England!

FOR SALE - Cullawn Celtic King "Duffy" & Cullawn My Way "Corby"

2010-03-16T12:03:00.000-07:00

Both Duffster and Corbster are sadly for sale. I'm hoping to compete Holly at *** later this year and need the funds to continue our progress and cannot unfortunately afford to compete all of them. I also have some youngsters coming through and not enough time.

They will both be competing at the South of England on the weekend of 10-11 April and Corby will be at Munstead on 27 March.

I have but a couple of videos on Youtube

Duffy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0seD-eYlkI

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YljKmh9TY1Y

Corby

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=coQi2lxkrb8

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pttvMcxxa0g

Anyone who is interested please contact me, you can find my details on the website.

Twesledown Picture - Lulu Kyriacou

2010-03-13T01:52:00.001-08:00

Great picture that I was tagged in on Facebook, taken by Lulu Kyriacou

Eventing Magazine April - Owner of the Month

2010-03-13T01:36:00.001-08:00

Another press cutting! Very excited to have been chosen as the April Owner of the Month in this month's Eventing Magazine!

Fantastic start to the season fingers crossed it continues!!

Horse & Hound - 11 March 2010

2010-03-13T01:32:00.000-08:00

Holly and I featured on page 49 of Horse & Hound this week in the report for Isleham, there is a nice picture too taken by Trevor Meeks!

Stop press - Twesledown Result - 2nd!!

2010-03-11T09:44:00.000-08:00

Whooohooo 2nd place so pleased!! Holly was brilliant had a 35.5 dressage although I did feel that she went better and more relaxed than last weekend but it was a different test. Had a double clear and got around 9.2 time penalties XC.

She was great there were two nasty corners which caused some a few problems and there were a few fallers today.

Next stop Somerley!! Must get a stopwatch though can't believe I've been eventing this long without one will hopefully help to get less time penalties!

Twesledown tomorrow with Holly Hot Lips!

2010-03-10T09:31:00.000-08:00

Twesledown tomorrow. Good times, dressage at 11:38 am so 5:30 am start. Not as bad as the 4 am start for Isleham!

Looks like I will be doing my dressage test straight after a World Champion, Zara Phillips!

I really like Twesledown and figures crossed for a good result. The picture here is of Holly and I at the footbridge last year, not sure the picture accurately shows how big it is!

I'll keep you posted with the result!

Isleham - 7 March 2010

2010-03-08T05:05:00.000-08:00

Had a good day with Holly yesterday at Isleham, we came 3rd in the Intermediate. 31.8 dressage, one pole down SJ and 14.4 time penalties XC. The pole in the SJ was my fault put in one too many strides and got her too close to the fence.

Duffy had a good dressage 34.5 (4th after dressage) but unfortunately had three poles down a real shame as he has been jumping so well over the winter! Still first event of the season so plenty to improve on!

Next event Twesledown Intermediate with Holly Hot Lips!

I'm also entered into Somerley International CIC** (30-31 March) and Belton Park AU25 in April.

Not sure about you but I'm enjoying the sun too, life with horses is so much easier when it's dry!

WoW Saddle - SEEL Owner Rider 2009 prize

2010-02-27T12:18:00.000-08:00

I got my WoW saddle delivered the other day. So pleased with it, the air in the panels is amazing!

Emma, who fitted the saddle, was brilliant and WoW have been fantastic. They were really thorough making sure it fitted perfectly and videoed me riding to keep a check on my position.

The stirrup leathers are great as they are only one single strip so not as bulky as standard leathers.

I've been out jumping in it and Holly is going really well with it. An added bonus is that it was tried on Duffy and it fits him too! Looking forward to trying it out on the XC course at Isleham next weekend!

Introducing Old Town Tango "Tango"

2010-02-27T12:12:00.000-08:00

Here's Tango our Irish stallion! Tango is the sire of Lady's unborn foal and I'm really looking forward to seeing what a Tango x Lady turns out like! We're aiming to get him graded in October, I'll keep you posted on his progress!

I backed Tango in the Autumn of last year. He is going really well and I hope to the BYEH with him this season.

I took him loose schooling with Maria Green today at Sandhurst Farm, Lamberhurst and he was jumping nicely, he was being a little cheeky though galloping round and bucking!

Courier - Sports Personality of the Year

2010-02-17T00:56:00.000-08:00

Please don't forget to vote for the Courier's Sports Personality of the Year. Voting closes at midday on Friday (19 February).

Votes can be cast on voting slips found in the Courier or Chronicle and posted to Sports Awards, Promotions Department, Courier Media Group, Longfield Road, Tonbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3HL.

You can also text your vote. Text 'ks sports sp07' to 65100. Texts cost 50p plus your normal network rate.

Thank you.

Dressage with Corby

2010-02-16T01:45:00.000-08:00

I took the Corbster (Corby - "Cullawn May Way") to Ardingly yesterday. He was a good boy and we came 1st individually and the team (Rother Valley Riding Club) came 6th. It was a long day and very cold!

Here's a report from my RVRC!

http://www.rvrc.org.uk/rvrc-teams.htm

I will be free schooling Tango and Bobby today which should be fun - pictures to follow!

Showjumping & Upcoming Events

2010-02-07T13:47:00.000-08:00

I took Holly Hot Lips showjumping at Duckhurst today. We were jumping in the 1.00M, 1.10M & 1.15M on a BSJA day ticket.

She was great, as usual, but very keen! Clear rounds in each class!

I'll be taking Corby, Duffy & Bobby jumping this week.

I took Holly & Duffy on the gallops at Brightling last week. They are booked in for their first event on 6 March at Isleham. Duffster in the Novice Class and Holly in the Intermediate class.

I'm hoping to take Holly to Belton Park in April to do the Advanced U25.

Local Rider - January 2010

2010-02-07T13:36:00.000-08:00

In January's edition of Local Rider there was a write up of the South East Eventers' League. Below is a copy of the page on which Holly and I featured.

Courier - Sports Personality of The Year - Nomination

2010-01-29T14:21:00.000-08:00

I was delighted to find out today that I've been nominated for the Courier's Sports Personality of the Year! After another great season and great results at the South East Eventers League.

I had my WoW saddle (which I won for leading the SEEL Owner/Rider award) fitted this week and it's brilliant, looking forward to using it at events this season.

The voting for The Sports Personality of the Year closes on Friday 19 February 2010.

Please vote!

Snow!

2010-01-29T14:05:00.000-08:00

I'm glad the snow has finally all gone!! You'll see that I did have fun in the snow but it did get annoying and ruined my schedule, I was hardly able to ride for a week.

Kath and I had fun sledging in the snow towing each other along. I managed to exercise on one of the flat fields at the top as I knew there were no rutts up there. Corby loved exercising in the snow!

Now back on track to get all the horses fit ready for the first event in March.

Snow fun & email greeting!

2009-12-20T12:20:00.000-08:00

As you can see I had fun with the horses in the snow! Poor Corby was dressed up as a reindeer!

I have sent an email with the picture on the left attached, unfortunately it seems that some recipients' email addresses will not allow the picture to be displayed.

Season's Greetings to all and a very happy and healthy 2010.

Thank you to all who have supported me over 2009 and I'm looking forward to a successful 2010!

Lisa & the horses

2009-12-19T12:40:00.000-08:00

Season's Greetings & Best Wishes for 2010!!

SEEL - Seahorse Ball - 14 November 2009

2009-11-17T13:21:00.000-08:00

I was lucky enough to have Kristina Cook present me with the Leading Owner Rider award. Kristina was really nice and it was a great honour to meet her. It was funny being second again in the Leading Horse and Rider behind Kristina and Miners Frolic, it was 2007 all over again but with Holly this year not Lady!

I had a really good evening and perhaps enjoyed the champagne reception a little too much! The Rodeo Bull was good fun and I had a few goes!

I'm very grateful to all of the companies who sponsored the league. I am very lucky to have won a WOW saddle and look forward to getting it fitted when Holly is back in work after her holiday.

Holly won a Stud Voucher for William Funnell's and Donal Barnwell's the Billy Stud for winning the Leading Mare Ranking.

R & R Stevenson Jewellers in Haywards Heath sponsored the Leading Horse & Rider award which I was 2nd to Kristina Cook & Miners Frolic. They kindly gave me a cheque which I will put towards training.

Net-Tex sponsored the Leading Intermediate Ranking in which Holly and I came 2nd, we were presented with a Net-Tex voucher and I've got my eye on some Lynn Russell grooming products.

Roll on next season!

A little hungover!

2009-11-15T09:30:00.000-08:00

Had a great night at the Seahorse Ball! A little worse for wear today! Well done to everyone who won awards. More pictures to follow....

Ernie, still avaliable.....

2009-11-13T09:09:00.001-08:00

Ernie is still looking for a good home. If you are looking for a reliable all rounder to have fun with then he's for you! Good in all respects Ernie will make someone a very nice horse. He is well schooled and jumping really well.

He is an absolute bargain which is only due to market conditions not his quality. Why not come and give him a try you'll go a long way to find a chap like Ernie!

SEEL Final Results - Confirmed!

2009-10-29T06:08:00.000-07:00

The final results for the South East Eventers League (http://www.south-east-eventers-league.co.uk/) have been confirmed.

Holly and I have won the Leading Owner/Rider and Leading Mare and 2nd in Leading Horse & Rider and Leading Intermediate.

I am looking forward to the Seahorse Ball on 14th November and will post some pictures on here!

A big thank you to all who have supported me this season. I'm really looking forward to next year and hope to do some bigger events with Holly.

Cullawn Celtic King - FOR SALE

2009-10-23T05:10:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately Duffy is now for sale to help fund the eventing season next year. I'll be very sad to see him go as I produced him from the start and have had some great results with him. It's always tough when the good ones have to be sold and I won't have anything at Novice level to compete next year, although Duffy has the scope and would have moved to Intermediate next season.

Photo: http://www.esphotography.co.uk/

If you think the Duffster sounds like he could be for you read on below!

Super Potential JRN/Young Eventer
16.1hh 7 year old Iron Grey Gelding

Sire: Rich Rebel, Dam: Diamond No More

Competing at Novice level BE with consistent results (13 BE Points), won last outing at Pulborough. Scope and attitude to go to Intermediate.

1st: Pulborough - Novice
8th: Nurstead - Novice
4th: South of England - Novice
4th: Iping - Novice

Pre-Novice outings recorded under Callawn Celtic King.

Full brother to Cullawn Holly and Cullawn Celtic Queen competing at Intermediate level BE. Same Dam as International Show Jumper Cullawn Diamond.

Consistent dressage in high 20's or low 30's
Very honest and bold XC
Snaffle mouth in all three phases
Good to shoe, clip, hacks out alone or in company

More photos and video available.

£18,000

Provisional SEEL Results!

2009-10-20T05:42:00.000-07:00

Seahorse Ball - 2007 (photo Donald Frost)

The provisional placings are on the South East Eventers Website and will be confirmed at the end of October.

Another great year and another 2nd to Kristina Cook and Miners Frolic!

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2009 WOW Leading Owner-Rider Ranking

Go Holly!

2009-10-16T12:02:00.000-07:00

Great end to the season, Holly ("Cullawn Holly") and I came 3rd in the Intermediate at Tweseldown.

A testing SJ course with 11 jumps only 5 clears (including Holly's perfect round!). As usual the XC was testing and twisting, we got a few time penalities but got home safely and another double clear! Unfortunately there were a few falls on the course and only 2 made it back within the time.

Hopefully on these results Holly and I should win the Owner/Rider and Leading Mare rankings and come 2nd in the Leading Horse & Rider and Leading Intermediates! I'll keep you posted once the SEEL (http://www.south-east-eventers-league.co.uk/) results are finalised.

Twesledown tomorrow - last event!

2009-10-15T05:03:00.000-07:00

Fingers crossed for tomorrow - in a tough section! Good times though, not like the 3 am start the other weekend!

2009-10-12T05:17:00.000-07:00

Ernie - For Sale!

Lovely chap in need of good home!

16.2hh 7 year old Irish TB (unraced)

Won prelim dressage (scores in 70's). Placed ODE (unaffiliated), snaffle mouth in all three phases, competed Trailblazers 85 cm jumping 1 metre at home, hunted with bloodhounds. Ernie has a good temperament and is really sweet. He hacks alone or in company.

£3,500

Results - 11 October 2009

2009-10-12T05:11:00.000-07:00

Had a good weekend at Pulborough

Duffy "Cullawn Celtic King" was a star and won his Novice section.

7th with Holly "Cullawn Holly" in the Open Novice

12th with Corby "Cullawn My Way" in the BE100 - good dressage and double clear, some unfortunate time penalties but brilliant considering it's his first season eventing and only second Pre Novice (BE100)

Next and final event of the season Twesledown with Holly! Hopefully on track for the SEEL!