Horse log app - BRAND NEW

(A month ago I was asked by the creators of this app to test it for them and then create a blog on how I found it. Below you will see my honest opinions of the app and my rating.)


The clever horse management application

Have you wondered how much you spend on competitions each month? Or maybe how much feed for your horse costs? Has someone asked how you did at a particular show and you cannot remember?

Well, don't worry. There is now an app on the market that can keep a record of all of this for you at just the touch of a button.

Horselog will easily answer any query you have about your horse (providing you have previously entered the information) which will in turn make your life much easier.

It will enable you to keep a track of health, competitions and budget, plus much more!

You can:
* Manage as many horses as you wish -  Which makes this app great for livery yard owners or those who own more than one horse!
* Horse ID card -  This includes a picture of your horse, breed, colour, birth date, sex, activities, plus more.
* Competitions -  This section allows you to keep up to date with current, past and future events, results and earnings.
* Reminders - Set reminders for things like booster injections, dates the farrier is due and lots more.
* Budget - This section includes categories that will enable you to record all your expenses.
* Checklist - Be on top of everything with a helpful checklist that allows you to remember what to pack for your next event.
* Reports - View budget reports that let you know exactly what you're spending per year, month and per horse.

That's right, this app does all that; including more!

How do I rate this app?

When I initially created an account on this app for Ceaser I was struck to find that there wasn't an option to choose his colour as being skewbald, in stead I was offered a Tobiano or Splash coloured pony. I soon noticed there wasn't many English colours offered so hopefully as this app becomes more popular the creators will add these colours on to cater more for the English owner as well.

I also downloaded the app on my iPad so the screen was only small. This really didn't affect the use of the app though and I still managed to navigate my way around clearly enough.

I liked the idea that I could add a photo of my horse to put on its 'ID card'. I can imagine this will be very useful for those that have a number of horses to input on to the app and especially helpful for livery yard owners who may not input the horses full name.

The ID card allows you to input the horses name, age, date of birth and colour. Below this you also have the option to input what activities you participate in with your horse and then any notes you may wish to add.

With a pony that is allergic to a form of antibiotics; Oxytetracycline, I have to make all vets aware that deal with my pony aware that he is. This app enables me to keep this information on Ceaser's notes section so I always have the name of the antibiotics to hand in case I need to let vets know should he need antibiotics intravenously.

What does the app offer?

Once you have created your ID card for your horse you are then given the option to choose from three categories to input information to.
This is the Health, Competitions and Budget sections that you then click into and it splits all your information up.

The Health section gives you options to put in when the farrier is due, as well as vaccinations, the dentist, osteopath and worming. At the bottom you can also in put data about other varied vet costs. I can presume this will mean something like your horse being treated for an abscess or minor injury. On the individual sections you again can also put in extra notes to yourself that you may need to remember next time the farrier is there for example.

So, I have put into my notes section for the farrier that I need to remember next time he comes to shoe Ceaser I don't want quarter clips on his front feet for showing purposes. If you remove the quarter clips for showing it makes the horses feet look a lot neater and my farrier is a huge believer in this.

For people that have a lot of horses (like myself) and also lead busy lives, this is fantastic for them to write notes and ideas down that they may need to discuss with their farrier next time he is around. In stead of pulling out a notebook or trying to remember what you wanted to say, simply pull your iPhone out next time the farrier is around, click on the Horselog app and have a look what you needed to remember. It seems to make life much simpler and again is a fantastic idea for busy horse owners.

The competitions part of the app soon reminded me this app wasn't exactly completely developed for the English rider yet when I wanted to choose what type of competition I was participating in. There wasn't an option to choose "Showing" so I had to go with Dressage. Again, this wasn't a problem for myself as I knew what I meant. I did think it was good that you can in put all the shows you have coming up and the app automatically puts what is booked into categories. For example you will have all your dressage events in one categories, then show jumping and so on.

When creating an event that you are attending you can also in put when the show is, where, the time it starts and how much you have to pay or have paid to enter. If you have paid then you click the option that you have and it will add that amount of money to your overall expenditure. This is a great way to see what you are spending on competitions either monthly or weekly in order for you to keep a record.

Once you click out of the upcoming category and are in the overall competitions tab you are shown what competition is coming next, what it is and the date. Below that you are then given registration deadlines that you have coming up. So, for example if you're a member of British Dressage and the British Show Jumping Association and maybe the Side Saddle Association and your membership is coming to an end then it will appear below the 'next registration deadline' and let you know the deadline for renewing membership.


Next is the budget section of the app. Here you are able to see a break down of exactly what you are spending on your horse throughout the month and year. If you also wish to you can see what you spent last year and compare it to this year. At the bottom of the screen you can see whether you are losing money owning your horse or earning money. I am sure for most riders you're losing money, but for the serious competitors they will be able to use this to see what prize money they are bringing in per month and then what they are spending. For the less serious competitors and owners they will more than likely use this bit of the app to see simply what money they are spending on their horse per calendar month.

So?

Overall I really do like this app. Yes, there's a few more finishing touches they could do to make it more user friendly for the English horse owners but at the end of the day it does what we require. It saves people like myself saving receipts for feed, competitions and the farrier etc. In stead you can simply get your iPhone out, in put the data you require it to remember and at the touch of a button you can review expenditure, competition dates and so much more.

As I said earlier I feel this app would be perfect for owners that have more than one horse, especially livery yard owners that need to remember all the individual needs of several various horses. No longer do you have to worry about remembering any information, so long as you remember to input it in to your Horselog app then you can view it at any time.

This app is even more brilliant because you don't need WiFi to use it. Once you have downloaded it, you can use it wherever you are or wherever you go.

"For only £1.99 on the iTunes store, this app in my opinion is well worth it. Save yourself time, money and storage space by having all the information you need, simply, in your pocket. A simple MUST have for all equine owners."

This app is compatible with the following: iPhone 3GS, iPhone4, iPhone 4S, iPod touch (3rd generation), iPod touch (4th generation) and iPad. Requires iOS 4.3 or later. 

The size of the app is 1.1MB so it really doesn't use a lot of storage.

I rate: 7/10 - Would be 9/10 if I could have the option to select 'Showing' and 'Skewbald' but I am sure this will come soon as the app becomes more popular. Also, it would be nice for those who don't have an iPhone to be able to use it. It would be good for the developers to make it also available on Android and other platforms.

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Old Style Horse Remedies

When I was out reporting last week at the Horse Parade show in Ledstone, Yorkshire I stumbled across a brand new business that I immediately liked the look of.

After approaching them and asking whether they would be interested in me doing a blog in return for products they immediately obliged and here I am.

Old Style Horse Remedies was created by Alex a mere few months ago and is already going from strength to strength.

All products are made using both homemade and natural herbs and remedies that offer various health benefits to your equine.

You can use any of the products knowing that you are not putting anything harmful onto your horses coat that could cause lasting damage to internal organs. 

Products available are:
* 3 in 1 - Fly spray, detangler and show shine with tea tree. 
* Itchy Stop - A leave in herbal conditioner which stops itching and promotes hair growth. Also heals and soothes cuts due to the added Aloe Vera.
* Calmer Horse - A herbal remedy to calm both horse and rider with rose oil.
* Equine sports therapy massage oil - with added sinus clearing remedies.

All products are varied and do a number of jobs.

I have been using both the 3 in 1 fly spray on Ceaser to keep him in tip-top show condition ready for our championship shows next week and the Itchy Stop for around his mud fever to ensure the area is not irritating him.

So far I absolutely love the 3 in 1 fly spray. It does exactly what it says on the label; detangles his mane, helps keep his coat shiny and keeps the flys away! I am not a huge believer in fly spray and never buy it. In fact I would rather spend money on a decent, genuine fly rug than fly spray so I was very apprehensive about using this as fly spray. However, after just a few sprays I noticed the flys around him were all gone and he wasn't as twitchy.

His tail has since been lovely and silky soft, making it a lot easier to brush. Cobs tails are always horrendous to brush because they have so much of it so its nice to find a product that does as it says it will.

As well as this, Ceaser has been rubbing his tail a lot lately due to fly's and the humidity in the air, so I have been using the itch stop to help soothe the itchy area. So far this has worked a treat and we have had no usual bedtime scratching! 

People at my yard have even asked what products I'm using and are now keen to give them a try, saying the added bonus is, it leaves your horse smelling nice unlike lots of other products like these on the market.

I love the fact these products are all created using natural and herbal remedies. I am a big believer in going the natural way rather than anything else and I believe this will make these products even more so popular because of this.

I will be updating in the next week or so to let you know in more detail how I have gotten on with these products with both pictures and reviews.

So far: 9/10
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The brand new......HYPOCARE from Horseware.

When I was asked to write a product review for the brand new, Hypocare, just out on the market I of course obliged.

Who created it?

Hypocare was created by Horseware in Ireland and is described as "a revolution in infection control" and since arriving on the market is proving to be very popular.

How does it work?

It is a topical application that mirrors the body's own immune system; by working naturally alongside the body it kills all bacterial, viral and fungal infections on contact.

Hypocare is widely known already to work on fungal infections such as Ringworm, Mud Fever and Thrush.

Hypochlorous acid is the active ingredient in Hypocare and is naturally produced by the body's own immune system. This is where mirroring the body's own immune system comes in to force.

When a wound or infection occurs in the body, neutrophils, which is a type of white blood cells are deployed to the site of infection. The neutrophils then engulf the pathogen and produce Hypochlorous acid which immediately kills the bacteria on contact.

But can it harm my horse if its so strong?

Whilst Hypochlorous acid is amazing and between 80-300 times more effective at killing pathogens than hypochlorite or bleach, it is kind to healthy tissues which ensures that it will not slow down the healing process. Despite being used to kill potential infections in places such as operating theatres on surgical appliances it is completely safe to use and very effective.

To ensure Hypocare doesn't sting or cause your horse any discomfort it has been formulated to emulate skin pH, which makes it work in perfect harmony with the body. Thus meaning it will not sting when applied nor harm any healthy tissue or slow down the healing process.

One of the great things about Hypochlorous acid is that pathogens do not become resistant to it. Like antibiotics which has resulted in the explosion of superbugs and antibiotic resistance, we are not at risk of this with Hypocare. In stead, this product kills pathogens on contact, rather than having to penetrate the cell wall to attack the nucleus, giving neighbouring cells the opportunity to develop resistance.

If I can use Hypocare anywhere on my horse or domestic pet, surely I have to be careful if it digests any?

Any mammals can use this product, not just equines. Horsware strive in knowing that this product is 100% safe to use. It was created to help maintain healthy and itch-free skin and is completely safe if ingested, meaning that it is a great creation for dog or cat lovers who may lick the affected area!

Why is it only out now?

Although Hypochlorous acid has been around for years, scientists have not up until now been able to product it over 150ppm and with a shelf life of more than a few hours.

The creators of Hypocare believe it is ground breaking technology that will change horsemanship and animal care forever.

To make life easier for each individual, Hypocare offer their product in a variety of bottle sizes.
**

I am going to be using Hypocare for the next week or so to see if I notice any difference in Ceaser's mud fever. I have heard a great deal of good reviews about this product and am very excited to see what the future has in store for it.

Special thanks go to Horseware, Ireland for sending me this product, enabling me to create this review.

*Review and diary coming soon*

Results

I have been using Hypocare for about a week now and am impressed with the results I have had so far.

Ceaser has a cracked heel from some previous mud fever so I have been using Hypocare to try and hurry along the heeling process

Already the area looks a lot drier and less sore. There is now no discharge coming from it and once I have sprayed the Hypocare on, the area looks clean. I have been conscious about having to wash his heel in hibiscrub constantly as it can cause discomfort to horses skin, so finding a product like Hypocare that will clean the area for me and help speed the healing process is brilliant.

I now do not have to worry how much I am washing his feel and causing the skin to become soft and easier to break, in stead I spray Hypocare on and it dries instantly rather than leaving Ceaser with wet legs.

*more to come*

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A day on the dark side. A day of being a reporter and not a competitor

Once again this weekend I found myself on the other side of the ring as I was sent by Equestrian Life magazine to report on The Horse Parade Championships held at Ledstone in Yorkshire.

I find it so different (albeit weird) being on the other side of the ring, trying not to get involved with ponies not cooperating and simply sticking to doing what I am there to do - report.

A prime example of my eagerness to be involved showed when I asked a competitor on a large hairy coloured horse whether I could take her photo. Of course she obliged and before my photographer went clicking away I scurried to the rather stunning horse and sorted his mass of mane and forelock out, ensuring it laid correctly.

Another example is when a young horse wouldn't go into the indoor arena because of the loud clapping and music. I was itching to help and even my partner, Mark saw this and said "Don't get involved, I can see you're dying to."

What can I say? I am shamefully one of these people when out competing that will offer my chifney out for people to use if they're struggling to load a horse. Or, like when we were at Elms Farm a few weeks ago and a stubborn chestnut mare (says it all!) wouldn't load in her box; there I was behind it with a lunge line and the darling pony wearing my chifney. I can't help it.

Anyway, as I mentioned earlier, it was nice to be on the other side for once, dressed up in decent (ish) clothes, not worrying whether or not my classes were clashing or when I was due to go in to the ring next. I could have lunch when I wanted and actually sit down! Trust me, this never usually happens when I go out showing.

Once again I was extremely overwhelmed by the amount of people that approached me, wanting to tell me their story and publish photos of their children in the magazines. Every individual I interviewed seemed more than happy and impressed to find they would be appearing in Equestrian Life magazine. Supportive parents couldn't thank me enough for agreeing to take photos and interview themselves or their children.

It is lovely to try and make someones day just that little bit more special and despite promising I can only try and get their photo in Equestrian Life, nonetheless they were still very thankful and willing to chatter as long as I would keep on asking the questions.

I must admit when I first started reporting at the showing shows I felt a pang of guilt that I wouldn't be there with Ceaser, but whilst I am there alone without him I am still learning. (and lets face it - he's usually with me!)

In fact, today I learnt that for proper TGCA (Traditional Gypsy Cob) classes, the horses feather should reach the end of its hoof. If it doesn't then the judge will mark it down; its as simple as that. In all honesty I thought feather was feather! But no, if you wish to affiliate your gypsy cob and do well, then its feather has to be of a certain length. As well as this, mane and tails should be left un touched and barely trimmed. If the judge spots straight lines on the horses mane, tail or forelock where they have clearly been trimmed, then again, you will be marked down.

I wont give too much away on the show as for that you will need to buy Equestrian Life magazine: http://www.equestrianlifemagazine.co.uk . The full show report will be in next months edition.

All I can say is, despite the show being unsubscribed due to the lovely British weather and the fact it was rescheduled, everyone seemed to have a pleasant and enjoyable day. Well done to all.


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"You're in my line of ball..." My polo experience day.

When, on my 21st Birthday I received a brown envelope from my partner Mark which said: "You succeed in all you do, so I thought you should try something new...." I must admit I panicked.

Initially I thought "How am I going to tell him I don't want to jump out of a plane or go rolling down a very steep hill in a ball when he's clearly put a lot of thought into this present?". But I need not have worried as when I opened the envelope up I found it was in fact a voucher to have a polo experience day at Leadenham Polo Club near Sleaford. (phew!)

With my birthday back in January I did wait quite some time until I booked the polo day but I wanted to ensure the weather was nice and so I settled for a Thursday in August. I was told I would be on the day with two others of the same riding ability as me so we could have a good day and to ensure I didn't find it boring.

Mark promised to come with me for the day to take photos and be my official photographer.

As we arrived at Leadenham Polo Club we were greeted by the lovely Cameron and James whom both ran and taught at the club. Cameron was the one who took all the lessons and James rallied around providing us with ample amount of tea, coffee and lunch!

Before lunch we were taken in to the sitting room by James and taught a few basic rules of polo. He put on a DVD which showed us how the professionals did it. It looked ridiculously fun (albeit a little daunting) and I just wanted to jump on and get down to business.

After this we were taken outside to have a go with the polo sticks (mallet if you're American) - which Cameron did have to keep reminding me were NOT called "Racquets" -  standing so we could get used to hitting the ball and aiming in the right direction.

Next we were told to mount on to the wooden horse and try hitting the ball with the longer stick and in a mounted position. I always knew my hand and eye coordination was rubbish but geez did this prove it. Although, not too long in to the task I passed, declared safe of not being at risk of swatting the horse with my stick (My hand-eye-ball coordination is that bad) and was allowed to dismount the wooden horse to mount the real one.

This is where the fun began. I was given a lovely palamino pony called Parsnip after asking "Please give me the fastest" and told to have a walk around to get used to one another. When Cameron insisted on adjusting my stirrups for me I once again provided entertainment for us as I declared I wanted my stirrups longer as I was "a dressage rider you know". With a snort, laugh and "DRESSAGE? Oh dear" comment, Cameron had shifted my stirrups up two holes and I was sent away.

It was a whole new experience getting used to riding with my knees actually bent a fair amount at not bending my elbows. Suddenly I was riding with one hand half way up my ponies neck to turn it and one hand was...well, having to do something completely different.

In the beginning we were told to halt our ponies and practice simply hitting the ball a fair distance, the correct way and then stopping it as Cameron hit it back to us. It is definitely a lot harder than it looks and I soon enough began to feel my right wrist aching.

After this we were allowed on to pitch; which is slightly larger than 9 football pitches you know? Once on the pitch we were told to begin to hit our ball as were walking and then once we mastered that eventually do it in trot.

My pony was an absolute gem and very patient with my constant missing of the ball. Although, I wasn't the only one struggling as the two other ladies with me looked as if they were having difficulty as well!

All too soon our morning session came to and end and were sent inside to have the free lunch and pudding provided.

James came back in to the sitting room to go over more rules and show us another DVD of how polo is played properly.

In the afternoon we were given different ponies and I was fortunate enough to be riding Cameron's "favorite match pony and one to ride". A lovely dappled grey that helped me wherever possible.


Mum had arrived to watch by now as she was keen to watch me play. When she was younger she had played polo in South-Africa when she lived there and hasn't ridden since. Despite never watching me ride normally she was excited to watch this.

First off we had a canter around the whole of the pitch to allow us to get used to the feel of a canter on a polo pony. It is completely different and instead of sitting to it you do a rise in canter. Something else I found strange was the fact you had to put your legs back to make the pony go faster and so off I set with my legs back, hands forward and bum in the air for a lovely canter around the pitch holding my stick 'properly'.

It was fantastic, I rarely ride in open fields on Ceaser so it was just nice to be out of the menage and doing something different to schooling for a day.

After this we played some mounted polo games between us and the first person from one end of the pitch to the other with their ball was the winner. Despite help from Cameron I still came last after failing (miserably) to hit my ball very well. Upon finishing the race I did state I was "very competitive".

Next we practiced hitting the ball backwards in stead of forwards. We had to do a back hander and watch not to twist our hand around so we were holding the stick the wrong way. Funnily enough I was better at this (Yes, you try and work the logic of someone being able to hit a ball backwards and not forwards too...) and despite a "You're twisting your hand" comment from Cameron I was hitting the ball like a pro, a lot further than everyone else.

I must admit my pony had a huge part to play in me suddenly becoming a pro. Evidently he was a bit of a comedian himself and like a true polo pony, enjoyed kicking the ball further than I had hit it. I think I found my perfect match in that pony; he was definitely a big help!

All too quickly the day was coming to an end and we finished off by playing a two a side match. Luckily I was put with Cameron - probably because of my (lack of) skills - and away we went. This part was definitely the most fun as we were allowed to go however fast or slow we wanted. Of course, me being the person I am, I wanted to do everything in canter and win. I also worked out that if I started off facing forwards but ended up hitting my ball in to the goal backwards then I scored. Hurrah! Sure enough I got as competitive as ever and started screaming rules out to the other team that got in my line of ball. Thankfully our team won the mini game and I was able to do my victory dance.

Overall I had fantastic thoroughly enjoyable day at Leadenham Polo Club and hope to go back for a few more lessons or days when I can afford it.

Thank you to Mark for my brilliant 21st Birthday present and to Cameron and James at Leadenham Polo Club for making our day an enjoyable one.

Tweet me @FurryMane if you have tried something new and enjoyed it. 
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A day in the life of a journalist and show rider....

This past week has been absolute all go. Last Tuesday it was decided by Equestrian Life magazine that I would be covering the Pony Club Championships held at Cholmondeley Castle on the 16th and 17th. I could have stayed all weekend reporting but I had already previously planned to compete at Arena UK on the 19th with Ceaser.

The atmosphere at The Pony Club Championships was simply fantastic. I think if I had to describe it in one word though it would be electric. Everyone was buzzing and surprisingly enough I did not see one child cry. All were in good spirits and focused more on having a good time.

I don't think I'll ever get used to sitting in the "officials and sponsors" tents at competitions like the championships, having lunch with the rich and famous. Every time I mentioned I was a journalist everyone made the same "oooo" noise and told me how exciting it must be.

Yes, days like these make all the endless hours I spent in a lecture room for three years at university seem worthwhile. The blood, sweat and tears over lost work and a hard dissertation all suddenly now seem worth it, now I'm exactly where I want to be and doing exactly what I have always dreamed of doing.

Every person I met at The Pony Club Championships was willing to talk and answer all the questions I had. It does seem funny that without the press pass around my neck stating who I am, I'm just like everyone else. Yet, with my press pass I'm someone people want to talk to and are keen to be approached by. It is a lovely feeling, being able to make someones day by promising to try and get their photo in to a magazine or giving them a mention.

A particular Pony Club team didn't do too well in the mounted games but I promised I would try and get a photo of them in Equestrian Life and they were soon all smiles again. It is a lovely feeling and I am so fortunate to be able to give people a voice and show their beautiful ponies off.

Fingers crossed I am heading down to Cheshire this coming weekend to cover another Pony Club event. If you're there please tweet me @FurryMane and I will try and get round to meeting up with you to conduct a short interview. (I'm nice I promise!)

**

Saturday and Sunday saw me once again running around like a headless chicken. Because I had been away for the two previous days Ceaser was filthy from being out and in need of a good bath. Just as I was about to bath a livery asked me if I would take them on a 3 hour round trip (which ended in being more like 4/5 hours) to see a pony for sale. Of course I happily obliged and got home very late which meant bathing and plaiting a moody Ceaser who just wanted his tea!

Sundays heat was excruciating. If I had known it was going to be that hot I really wouldn't have gone to the show; but we did. Upon arrival we pulled four very sweaty ponies off the lorry. Even though our lorry has enough ventilation and windows it still gets very muggy in there when there is four horses on the lorry.

Anyway, this meant sponging Ceaser down once we had arrived at the show and hoping he would dry before our classes. Thankfully he did and still looked stunningly white for his class.

First up was Riding Pony which he usually does well in. Today he felt stuffy and simply like he couldn't be bothered. Which in all honesty was quite how I felt. The judged shocked me by being very thorough, checking all tack was clean, asking us to allow our horses to stretch in the go-round and then showing a gallop. The ring was small for the amount in the class and I would have liked to have shown a better gallop but knew I could save that for my show piece.

As usual I saw the competition in the class and knew I had to be one step ahead again, so out came my walk to canter in my individual show piece again. Despite Ceaser not being as quick as usual to hop in to the canter it still felt nice and we got our chance to produce a lovely forward gallop to finish off before reining back and saluting. The judge seemed pleased as she kept pointing to him when making her decision and I was thrilled to be pulled in 1st place.

By now the heat was exhausting and I felt like I could faint any minute in all my show gear.

In the Ridden Veteran we were once again up against the big hunter and show horse types that simply look amazing when turned out correctly. Ceasers show piece felt nice but I felt could have been more responsive. This reflected I think when we were pulled in a respectable 4th place. Still good considering the competition that we were up against.

So, after another pleasing day I went to check out my score sheets for the whole season at Arena UK. I am a member and aiming for the big trophies at the Presentation Evening. All season I have been working towards gaining points to win overall Champion in both classes and am pleased to say so far I am in the lead. I just need to do well at the final show which is a Championship show in September and I think I'll get it. Please all keep fingers crossed for me and Ceaser - I would be thrilled to win overall champion in both classes and will be working extra hard to gain the most points at the final show.

**

This Thursday I have a Polo lesson which if you remember me saying, my partner Mark purchased for me for my 21st birthday. I am quite excited at trying yet another new discipline and hopefully the weather holds out for me! I will let you all know how I get on.
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50 shades darker

 “This is me, Ana. All of me...and I'm all yours. What do I have to do to make you realize that? To make you see that I want you any way I can get you. That I love you.”

The Fifty Shades trilogy just gets better and better.

At the end of Fifty Shades of Grey we are left reeling after Ana decides she can't give Christian exactly what he wants and leaves him.

I am sure I'm not the alone when I sat there crying and eagerly wanting to read the second book to see if our young lovers got back together.

Only a handful of pages in it is evident neither can live without one another and so the story begins of the two entering a long romantic journey on getting back together and vowing to find more out about each other. Of course though, Christian knows all he needs about Ana so in stead we begin to find out just how dark his past really was.

Early on a few more characters are thrown in just to make the story more interesting. Leila, one of Christians ex submissives decides to hunt Ana down and find a way back to Christian again. Leila wants to know how Ana has managed to hold on to Christian and why he will do anything to keep her safe. Elena (or better known as Mrs Robinson" also is after Ana to try and warn her off Christian, whilst Jack, Ana's new boss flirts continually and as time goes on gets darker and darker.

Through initial heartache Ana is able to realise and see clearly now what she wants needs from Christian. Once she is reunited with him (and they spend the night making up for a lost weekend) she communicates more by telling him exactly what she feels and what is on her mind. In stead of feeling scared to challenge Grey she goes ahead and finds he actually becomes turned on by it!

Grey also becomes a stronger man by simply falling in love - Who would have thought it eh? Slowly Ana brings him out of the dark place he has lived for so many years now and in stead of self-loathing place he was in realises he is worthy of love.

As I read through the book I became agitated at comments from various individuals telling me it was a "sick book" that had "sick individuals" in.

I will reiterate that if you pull back the constant sex and sexual references you find a well written, enjoyable piece of English literature that is simply a fine example of a love story. Yes our very own Christian Grey doesn't compare to Mr Rochester and his charming mannerism but Jayne Eyre was published in 1847; times have changed and society needs to accept that with time English literature will change.

It is evident from early on that we are in fact reading a love story. It is overwhelming to see the compromises both Ana and Christian are prepared to make in order for their new relationship to work. Of course we are treated to the graphic sexual scenes again but E.L. James ensures she goes further and deeper (excuse the use of words there) to reveal two individuals hopelessly in love and willing to help each other in learning exactly who they really are.

The sex scenes in this book do more than provide us with entertainment but also reveal a lot about Ana and Christian. Within the book Ana finds her inner courage and admits to not only her self but also Christian that she actually enjoys some of the stuff he does to her. Christian also realises he is also discovering a completely new side to himself. Whilst he has always taken great sexual pleasure in harming and hurting women during sex, he cannot bear the thought of Ana being in pain and vows never to take her into the Red Room again.

“Whoa. I'v never heard him sing, not even in the shower, ever. I frown. He has a lovely voice- of course. Hmm...has he heard me sing?
HE WOULDN'T BE ASKING TO MARRY YOU IF HE HAD! My subconscious has her arms crossed and is wearing Burberry check..jeez.”


As with the first book we are given the chance to learn of what Ana's subconscious thinks throughout the whole relationship. Through this we are able to see what Ana is really feeling and learn a lot more about her. Through the tense, bum on edge of seat, moments it is Ana's subconscious that makes you laugh out loud and makes light hardheartedness of  the strange situations we find the characters in. E.L.James clearly gave these books much thought and this is just another fine example of the fantastic extras we receive.

Again the email exchanges between the two are also a nice added extra but in stead with Ana revealing her thoughts through these we actually see the two interacting face-to-face rather than hiding behind a computer screen.

The further into the book you get it is clear Grey is a fragile human being who deep down wants to be loved. Despite needing to control every area of his life when he met Ana it all went out the window.

“You're my lifeline," he whispers, and he kisses my knuckles before pressing my palm against his.”

Fifty Shades Darker takes us through a journey that explores Christian's awful childhood and piece by piece we begin to understand why he behaves in such a way.

If the characters weren't believable in the first installment of this trilogy then they certainly are in the second.

Throughout we see Jack, Ana's boss, wanting Ana for himself and flirting endlessly with her. As a way of controlling what Jack does Christian buys his company and sacks Jack for coming on to Ana. If you look past the control Christian once yearned to have, you meet a man simply protecting something he loves and never realised he could.

“I cannot be with someone who takes pleasure in inflicting pain on me, someone who can’t love me.”

Despite silly, meaningless arguments the pair grow closer and closer and the sexual tension and overwhelming feeling of love almost jumps out from the page at you as you read along. Again I found myself on the edge of my seat anticipating what was to come next. I have never read such a book with so much tension.

E.L.James certainly knows how to make you want more as you turn each page.

We are told often by Grey that he does not deserve to be loved and we are led to believe no one has ever loved him before. Soon enough though when Christian's helicopter Charlie Tango goes missing we learn that despite feeling otherwise, Grey is surrounded by unconditional love by his entire family. Upon his return Ana manages to make him realises this and almost instantly we see a different man.

“Don’t leave me,” he whispers.
“Oh, for crying out loud—no! I am not going to go!” I shout and it’s cathartic. There, I’ve said it. I am not leaving.
“Really?” His eyes widen.
“What can I do to make you understand I will not run? What can I say?”
He gazes at me, revealing his fear and anguish again. He swallows. “There is one thing you can do.”
“What?” I snap.
“Marry me,” he whispers.”


As expected a marriage proposal from Christian comes as no surprise. In fact I had been expecting it as soon as I opened this book. Despite each page feeling like a life time barely any time has passed and friends of the couple question whether or not their love is real. However they soon learn otherwise and give their blessing to the young duo.

I didn't doubt for a second that they would live happily ever after in Fifty Shades Freed and I cannot wait to start reading it. Many of you are probably by now asking "What happened to Jack once Christian sacked him?" At the end of Fifty Shades Darker we are given a passage that can only be about Jack and once more the anticipation of whats to come surfaces.

In a nutshell this book shows how two young lovers go through a journey together to unleash the horrific past one has been through. Christian picks up the pieces of his broken soul and commences on a journey with the one woman who despite everything does love him unconditionally.

Fifty Shades Darker may be described as a twisted book including two people that seem sex mad but despite it all you cannot disagree that this is a love story nonetheless.

“Your touch completely, it just means more...so much more.”

Definitely worth 5/5. 


**Book 3 review coming soon**




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The Pony Club Championships held at Cholmondeley Castle

This week I am in Chester on behalf of Equestrian Life magazine reporting on The Pony Club Championships held at Cholmondeley Castle.

As I am ushered in to lunch to be seated at the "sponsors and media" table I realise just how lucky I am to already have such fantastic opportunities within my career. Everyone is lovely and the rest on our dinner table are keen to find out what I do.

The atmosphere outside is absolutely amazing and all the children are keen for me to take photos of them and their four legged animals whilst we chat ponies and show results.

The championships include all Pony Club disciplines from mounted games to Centre Equitation where young riders without a horse or pony get to compete by representing their riding school or centre.

I am thrilled that even those without a horse or pony get the opportunity to compete at such a prestigious event and also get the chance to feel the buzz of a competition.

The mounted games is absolutely fantastic and the atmosphere around the ring is electric. The view of children standing in their stirrups screaming for their team mates to come home before the other team is a familiar one with on lookers.

I am struck by one team, who when I interview them seem a lovely bunch. They are all so eager to talk and tell me not only of their achievements during today but also of last week and two months ago. I even learn of all the names of their ponies at home and whether or not they help mum with the mucking out.

Admittedly they even manage to make me laugh at their stories and at the end I found myself joining in with their trainer shouting for them to win.

This seems a world away from looking for office based journalism jobs and it makes me want to be a freelance journalist so much more.

I cannot wait to go back to tomorrow to do yet some more reporting and hope I am again surrounded by enthusiastic young riders willing to share their stories.

To read a full report of The Pony Club Championships please ensure you buy the next edition of Equestrian Life magazine which is out at the beginning of every month.

http://www.equestrianlifemagazine.co.uk


If you're competing at the championships please do not get hesitate to tweet me at @FurryMane and I will endeavour to arrange to meet you to take some photos.
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50 shades of....filth?

“- "Why don't you like to be touched?"
- "Because I'm fifty shades of f****d-up, Anastasia”


I know so many of you have probably already read the 50 shades trilogy by now but for those who haven't or those who want a simple review, I'm here and ready to do it.

I jumped on the band wagon (so to speak) at the weekend when I walked into Tesco expecting to buy a magazine. In stead of Heat, New! or the usual Horse & Hound magazine, out I came with the first book in the 50 shades trilogy.

Not really knowing what I was to expect I began the book with an open mind. I'd heard both good and bad reviews from various friends and family. My sister described it as "good and the sex scenes aren't all that bad" whereas my aunty phoned my mum clearly agitated declaring she "wanted 'that' book out of her house, NOW!".

“Don't get your panties in such a twist... and give me back mine.”

When the book first came out I remember Facebook going into an absolute frenzy. Graduates were wanting Christian Grey to marry them, mothers were spending less time changing nappies and more glued to the book. Even Grandmas became accustomed to Mr Grey. How? I had to find out.

So, armed with a £20 note I purchased the first book.

What got me hooked immediately was the fact that Anastasia Steele reminds me so much of myself (obviously I'm not in to domination and being ordered around, but in other ways) and the fact that we are faced with a storyline involving a journalist.

Lets rewind a moment whilst I explain the bare content of the book before we go any further.

“No, Anastasia it doesn’t. Firstly, I don’t make love."

This book was originally written by a British "mum" as Twilight fan fiction.  She re-imagined Bella and Edward as human adults.  And this time around, rather than a lust for Bella's blood, Edward has a lust for tying up Bella and spanking her until it...uhhh...doesn't hurt anymore.

Admittedly in the beginning its hard to get past the fact of how similar Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele are to Bella and Edward. Once you're over the whole "Twilight is my life" deal then you're okay.
Again though we are faced with the clumsy, beautiful girl who happens to be a virgin, falling for the 'bad' guy she shouldn't have.

I had been told not to get (and I quote) "too excited" until roughly chapter 8 when they have sex for the very first time but from the moment the clumsy, innocent, beautiful 'Ana' fell into Mr Greys office I was hooked.

Although I was looking forward to finding out just how sinful the raunchy scenes were I soon noticed an underlying plot that showed us Mr Grey was a troubled young man.

Aside from the (good?) sex we see a relationship developing between Ana and Christian Grey that is clearly so much more than just scenes where he has his wicked way with her.

"No I told you, I don't sleep with anyone."

Admist warnings, Ana still becomes involved with Grey and the revelation of who he really is – a sexual deviant who likes to dominate his women into submission comes as quite a shock.

We are introduced to a young, carefree, gorgeous but troubled man, portrayed way above his 27 years who doesn't like to be touched nor does "hearts and roses". Soon enough we learn he was adopted at the age of four and then controlled and used by one of his mothers friends for sex. Clearly the guy has problems.

He sees women as being there to please and attend to all his needs, where in return he will buy expensive presents for and treat like a princess.

Ana is required to sign a contract to agree to terms and conditions set by Grey that she must adhere to. 

The contract has a list of rules she will be required to follow. She must workout, eat regularly, maintain her health and hygiene, wear the clothing he provides, obey his every request, and spend every weekend with him for a period of three months. She also is forbidden to touch Christian or make eye contact with him.

"Why am I doing this Anastasia?" "Because I rolled my eyes at you"

I must admit, admitting to people I am reading the book caused a few stirs. "Its pure filth, you should not be reading it" was one comment. If you open your mind, look past the sex, scandals and constant.... (yes i'll leave that for you to fill in) then there, amongst it is a young man with problems who is simply looking for someone to look after and rescue him from the downward spiral he seems to be in.

Sure enough though before long we are introduced to the more loving and caring side of Grey that shows he could really have a soul beneath the 'fifty shades' man that he is.

 **

As the book nears the end I found myself wishing there was another few hundred pages to read. I was hooked from the moment I opened the front cover but 50% in I didn't want to put it down.

Towards the end the relationship between Ana and Christian grows (I would say blossoms but can you call a relationship where the man enjoys hitting his woman normal?) but as ever becomes more confusing for readers.

I enjoyed the character development tthroughout and as the book goes on it is confirmed Christian has a bit of a soul (don't all gasp at once!).

The particular enjoyable pages to read are the exchange in emails between both characters. They resemble and include playfulness, charming whit and we really see not only character development but also the relationship developing.

However, I did begin to question Author, EL James a little towards the end as she portrays that experimenting in a relationship to the extent Christian wants Ana to is normal. Christian many of times tells Ana that spanking, being tied up and whipped is all normal and only seems wrong and painful because that is what the mind subconsciously portrays it to be - hurtful and wrong.

Speaking of subconscious - throughout the book we learn of Ana's subconsciousness constantly telling her whats right and wrong. In fact when reading you almost picture an angel on one of her shoulders and a devil on the other. We are hilariously treated to Ana's subconsciousness telling her what to do and inner goodness
stepping in to intervene.

As well as kicking, imploring, pursing their lips, mocking, “metaphorically screaming”, tapping their foot in frustration, yelling, sneering , laughing, swooning, dancing and sitting in the lotus position, you’ll find -
My inner goddess is doing the merengue with some salsa moves.”
“My subconscious screams at me. My inner goddess is doing back flips in a routine worthy of a Russian Olympic gymnast.”
“My subconscious swoons and passes out somewhere in the back of my head.” *Might that ‘somewhere’ be near your medulla oblongata, Ana?*
“My subconscious scowls at me… fucking – not lovemaking – she screams at me like a harpy.”
“My subconscious has reared her somnambulant head.” *Bingo! Thesaurus and subconscious together in one outing.

 Like any love struck girl though Ana takes no notice of what her mind tells her and ignores what deep down she knows is right.

I may sound like I enjoy reading porn now but I found the in between bits of meeting parents and so on a little boring. What I think readers of this book enjoy is the nitty gritty, the development between the two and the way in which you find it difficult to relax whilst reading something so tense. I found myself constantly on the edge of my seat whilst reading, begging questions like "What would Christian do next?"..."Would he hurt Ana?". It took me good few chapters to realise he really didn't want to cause an unnecessary pain towards her and once you look past this you do find the troubled young man so traumatized by his past he feels it normal to order women around like their his prey.

It is only very near the end of the book that Ana comes to terms with her fate. Before she can commit to anything she asks Grey to show her how much he can really hurt her and throughout this we learn of his power and strength.

"What a monumental wake-up call. And to be fair on him, he warned me and warned me, time and time again."

Ana asks Grey to punish her the worst he would should she agree to be his submissive. Of course Grey doesn't object and goes on to beat her with a belt six times. Despite being told to use the 'safe word' should Ana become scared she doesn't and ends up running out on him.

"He's not normal"

Of course none of them want this and for once we see a Christian endure pain and hurt.

The book ends with Ana returning to her apartment alone having ended the relationship. She struggles to come to terms with what has happened and like any young girl in love finds it difficult to accept. Although this time her subconsciousness is correct and she knows she should stay away.

**

You don't have to tell me now, I know what you're thinking. I am sure I joined many other women in getting to the shops as fast I could to ensure I had the second book. The minute I closed the back page of the first I was left reeling and wanting more. Despite reading it whilst biting my own lip (something we must be careful of around Mr Grey or he will "Put you across 'his' knee") and going a embarrassingly shade of red whilst reading, I will continue to read the trilogy. Also, I never thought I'd say it but I think this could and already has topped Twilight.

Not many rate these books, but I honestly cannot put them down.

9/10 E.L James

*Second book review will be coming shortly*
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A weekend for firsts and "Sit up more when you jump...sit up, sit up!" My first lesson trying side saddle.

This weekend has been fun filled and packed with trying new things.

"You can't teach an old dog new tricks" "Yes you can Sian, get on with it"

For a few months now I have been thinking that I want to progress through the higher level of Medium Dressage tests but the fact that Ceaser doesn't do flying changes holds me back from doing this. When the yard manager suggested I "give it a go" I was skeptical. Funnily enough Ceaser will always change on to the correct canter lead for me when we're show jumping. When we asked him to do it without any poles or jumps to do it over we couldn't get it, but as we introduced a small, just off the floor jump he indeed did a flying change.

We realised that when I go over a jump I am automatically shifting my position and hands without realising, thus making Ceaser change his canter lead without me giving it a second thought. I now know that I need to start and do this without the canter pole or jump and for a while will need to exaggerate my aids until he understands what I am asking. A friend of mine told me to keep a canter pole on the diagonal for the first few sessions I ask him to do the flying change and then take it away once he knows what I am wanting.

I am really looking forward to progressing this with him. I did tell someone he was too old to start and learn complicated dressage moves like flying changes but after I read a magazine article that one of the German Olympic Dressage horses was also 17 when he started to learn moves like flying changes and Piaffe I have been given hope!

My problem is though when I try something new I am the type of person that wants to perfect it and get it right. So, I am sure my next few weeks will be spent in the menage getting the hang of flying changes.

"Sit up, sit up!"

I've always wanted to give Side Saddle a try but have never had the opportunity to, so when a lovely livery, TeeJay at the yard asked me if I wanted to put her Side Saddle on Ceaser and have a go I jumped at the chance.

At the beginning he didn't take well to the change. One of the straps was slightly flapping between his legs and he absolutely hated it. He was however doing a lovely example of Piaffe that I wish I could get him to do in different circumstances whilst objecting! I really didn't think at this point that we would be able to carry on but after we realised what was causing him to panic we were able to calm him down and sort it.

Eventually after a quick lunging session he calmed down and I was able to get on. Everything felt different, I felt like I was using muscles I hadn't used in a long time! It was a weird feeling not having my right leg to help me keep balanced, nor stop Ceaser from falling in. I don't often practice my sitting trot out of my dressage saddle neither so I found it a challenge to do sitting trot in a saddle without huge knee blocks to help me as Ceaser is very bouncy!

Lovely canter!
After the lunging session, Ceaser took to the different way of riding and not riding astride like a duck to water as they say. He was fantastic and very patient with me for the first few minutes whilst I got my head in to gear and used to riding differently. Once I got comfortable and felt like I was balanced I began to enjoy it. Walking and trotting is obviously relatively simple and I didn't find those gaits too different.

Out of all of the different gaits I think I found Canter to be the most difficult; it was hard getting the hang of not have an outside leg to place behind the girth and in stead getting used to the idea of a simple shift in body weight told Ceaser what I wanted of him and what to do. Again though, once I had the canter I felt comfortable and when TeeJay asked me whether I would like to pop a jump I decided to go for it. She told me to ensure I didn't fold and in stead leaned slightly more back than normal but still went with Ceaser to allow him to have his head and then sit up straight away.Ceaser was as honest as he will ever be and really looked after me. He took the jump steady and we simply sailed over with absolutely no problems.

Overall I thoroughly enjoyed riding Side Saddle and cannot wait to give it another go. As I said above, when I give something a go and enjoy it I then strive to get better at it. I have wanted to give riding Side Saddle a go for that long that now I have done it I want another ago. TeeJay told me I would find it addictive and sure as hell I have. The last two Christmases I have got my show saddle and dressage saddle from my Dad and Grandma as a present so I am already pestering Dad that for this Christmas and Birthday present I want a Side Saddle and habit. It is indeed something I really want to give another go and would love to have a go in a competition.

"Bow, bow"

Thank you :)
To top of a fantastic weekend, TeeJay allowed me to have a go on her Spanish horse, Ren. I wish that Ceaser was trained to do at least half of the tricks that Ren is trained to do, he is so well behaved. After having a lovely walk and trot, Ren kindly showed me his latest party piece; to bow with a rider on board. 

Do you prefer riding astride or Side Saddle? Let me know by commenting below or tweeting me @FurryMane


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Olympics 2012

As you all may know, last week I was fortunate enough to get to go to the Olympics to watch the eventing show jumping as a graduation present. It was a fantastic day and I spent most of it on the edge of my seat jumping up every time a British rider jumped.

The equestrian part of the Olympics is being held in the manicured parkland of Greenwich Park in south-east London. As I sat in my seat I was breath taken by the fantastic views of Canary Wharf, the City and much of London's fascinating skyline.

The eventing, which took part over three days involves the three disciplines, Dressage, Cross Country and Show Jumping. Riders compete for their national teams but also as individuals.

The dressage on day 1 of the eventing saw Mary King give the British hopes of gold by securing third place with 40.9 on Imperial Cavalier. Mary produced what can only be described as a lovely test on the 15-year-old. Knowing that the horse can find big crowds exciting, Mary entered the arena at Greenwich shushing the crowd and asking them to be quiet. Mary completed a virtually mistake-free test until the final flying change where she picked up only fours from all three judges. This cost them lead position but still put them in good stead for the cross country on the 2nd day.

The cross country saw Britain storm right into silver medal position after they produced some fantastic rounds on the testing but lovely course through Greenwich park.

All five of the British riders jumped clear round the course that caused quite a few problems for other countries and saw quite a few falls.

Nicola Wilson riding Opposition Buzz, Tina Cook riding Miners Frolic, Zara Phillips on High Kingdom, Mark King with Imperial Cavalier all went clear with only Mary picking up less than two time-faults. However, William Fox-Pitt had a slightly more dissapointing day after collecting 9.2 time-penalties on Lionheart.

After the day, Tina Cook was the best placed Brit laying in 5th place. Mary was 0.1 penalties behind her in sixth place, Zara was in 10th, Nicola in 20th and William Fox-Pitt in 21st.

This put Britain in to silver position overnight ready for the final day of show jumping.

As soon as I arrived at Greenwich the atmosphere was amazing. Everyone was absolutely loving being there and clearly looking forward for what was to come. Mine and Marks seats were in a fantastic place and we were able to see everything. It made it even more enjoyable that around us we were surrounded by members of different countries. We had people from Thailand, Germany, France and Ireland sat around us and despite us all wanting our country to win gold, we all simply were enjoying the atmosphere.

The course of show jumps saw the best of the British demonstrated in the making of the jumps . There was Trafalgar square, Royal Mail, Stone Henge and lots more.

The Germans, who led the leader board throughout the whole competition caused quite a reaction throughout the day as it was clear they were in it to win it. The whole day was just absolutely nail biting and tense.

Tina Cook jumped clear with only one time fault on Miners Frolic which put her in fourth place for the individual decider in the afternoon.

Zara Phillips and High Kingdom had only four faults and three time penalties which left them in 14th place before the individual placing.

Mark King was one place above her in bronze position after jumping a brilliant clear round over the testing fences inside the time. Unfortunately for both William Fox-Pitt and Nichola Wilson, after the show jumping, neither of their scores was counted towards the final standings. William completed a foot perfect clear round on Lionheart but after his nine time-faults across country he was left the lowest placed out of the Brits.

Nicola unfortunately knocked one fence down on Opposition Buzz, meaning that both her and William will not jump in the individual final. This is due to only the top three placed competitors from each country are allowed through.

The jumps for the final individual round were raised to 1m 30 and every rider kept every spectator on the edge of their seats.

   At one point it seemed that Sweden's Sara Algotsson Ostholt would win the individual gold after her horse Wega didn't seem to want to be seen touching a fence at all. Crowds were about to erupt in to cheers for the Sweden rider as she was about to become the first female Olympic eventing champion but unfortunately though at the very last second, all that could go wrong did and Wega got a deep stride in to the last oxer just hitting the front rail, knocking it down.

Eventually the individual gold when to Michael Jung, a German who is the first person to be the European, world and now Olympic champion. That put Sara Algotsson Ostholt into silver position.

German rider Sandra Auffarth, riding the 10-year-old Selle Français gelding Opgun Louvo, added just 4.8 cross-country time penalties to their dressage score of 40 to collect to bronze medal.

Mary King and Tina Cook had two fences a piece to finish in fifth and sixth places respectively, while Zara Phillips improved on her four faults in the team round to go clear with High Kingdom and finish in eighth.

During the interval between the team and individual section Mark and I walked around some of the cross country fences from the day before and took it as the perfect opportunity to take photos of the fences. There was no option to queue up for food as the queues just went on for miles and it would have taken too long.

In the end Great Britain took the silver medal and all team members rode their best right until the very end.

"It's disappointing we didn't get gold, but the team's been awesome," said the Queen's grand-daughter, Zara Phillips. 

Zara and her team-mates were presented with their medals by her mother, the Princess Royal.

I really cannot begin to describe how amazing the atmosphere is at Greenwich and how exciting is. I completely relished every moment of my time there and the experience was one that I will never forget. If you can get to an Olympic event I really suggest you try your damned hardest to. I now am looking forward to the Paralympic Dressage that I have tickets to and feel that will be every bit as amazing. Receiving tickets for the Olympics as a graduation present is something I will remember for the rest of my life and am so fortunate to have graduated in a year that people will remember for the rest of their lives.

Despite the controversy that has came with the Olympics as to whether Zara Phillips should have been on the team and whether or not she deserved her spot, or the anger that Great Britain didn't win gold in the eventing, I think we need to remember how hard every individual worked. The whole of the team I am sure put their all into the Olympics and every member of the team was picked for a reason. Whether you agreed with Zara being picked due to being the Queens grand-daughter, its irrelevant. Lets be thankful Great Britain worked as hard as they did and were able to at least win a medal on their home ground.

Congratulations to the whole of the British Eventing Team and Good Luck to the rest!

Any opinions? Tweet me at @FurrMane to let me know!

Top 10 individual results:

1. Sam (Michael Jung) GER 40.60;
2. Wega (Sara Algotsson Ostholt) SWE 43.30;
3. Opgun Louvo (Sandra Auffarth) GER 44.80;
4. Nereo (Andrew Nicholson) NZL 49.00;
5. Imperial Cavalier (Mary King) GBR 50.10;
6. Miners Frolic (Tina Cook) GBR 51.00;
7. Master Crusoe (Aoife Clark) IRL 52.50;
8. High Kingdom (Zara Phillips) GBR 53.10;
9. Mr Medicott (Karen O'Connor) USA 53.80;
10. Clifton Promise (Jock Paget) NZL 53.90.
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Another successful weekend

I will never get used to someone saying to me "Oh, I wish I'd not entered this class now I know you're in it" or "I'm never entering another class you're in."

I remember, back when I was small (yes I was once a child) and riding my 12.2hh, better known as "You've been tango'd" out on the show circuit. In a working hunter class, gymkhana games or show jumping class she would ace it and we would always come away with red ribbons, but in a showing class like Style and Appearance we would always be at the bottom of the line up and I was used to it. She jumps like a trooper, never touches a pole, refuses, runs out, is as fast as lightning and 'knows her job' but when it comes to showing she gets bored and I was never well turned out as a child. Having a mum that wasn't interested in horses proved difficult in my younger days. I never had someone following my every footstep with a tea towel wiping my boots or helping me plait, I did it all myself. So, lets face it, a nine year olds judgement of a well turned out pony isn't going to be up to the standards of the judges.

To be fair we went quite far, qualifying for and competing at county level shows and jumping 3ft working hunter courses. BUT, converting from a show jumper to a show rider is difficult and suddenly I found myself plaiting with a needle and thread rather than boring old bands and having to coordinate tack. It was a expensive, difficult conversion, but one I found myself enjoying.

So, I started to win showing classes in stead of show jumping classes and was always immaculately turned out for working hunter.

This weekend was no different. Ceaser (known as Billy the kid on the show circuit) has been going brilliantly lately. Rather than schooling in my snaffle at home I have been schooling in my show pelham that I compete in and think it is making quite a difference. Now out at a competition its not such a harsh change of bits for him to deal with.

First to go into the ring was the lovely coloured I have at the moment. She is a 14.2hh, rising 3, tri-coloured mare. Nothing bothers her and many cannot believe her age when I tell them. She certainly takes everything in her stride and is so willing to please. She went to her first show last weekend and won both of her classes so I was looking forward to the day with her. I entered her in to the youngstock coloured class had some very big competition in, with 10 entered. In my opinion all of them could have won the class and I am sure it was a very hard class to judge. Taysha did a lovely trot round and we were pulled into 4th place. I knew for our individual trot we would have to do better to be pulled in higher. Her paces make her look like she is floating and so for the second trot I 'put my running boots on' and asked her to extend more. Obviously the judge liked what she saw as we were then pulled in to 2nd place and invited back to the championship. The judge couldn't have complemented her more and commented on her fantastic mannerism for a youngster.

There was some fantastic quality in the championship as 1st and 2nd from every class are invited back to take part so I didn't hold much hope seeing as it was only Taysha's 2nd show. When the judges were deciding on who to pick I honestly couldn't look and was stunned to find her pointing at us for the Reserve In-Hand Champion spot! What a brilliant surprise. I honestly could not have asked more from Taysha and was thrilled with her.

Just as I was about to go into Ceasers class the rain absolutely began to pour and the horrendous thunder and lightning started. The show organisers began to discuss cancelling the rest of the classes but it was decided to carry on. Despite the constant crackling of thunder and bolts of lightning Ceaser produced a fantastic, foot perfect show piece, with a walk to canter included to take 2nd place and best turned out in the Ridden Veteran class.That was another huge surprise as included in the class was some lovely big hunter types that often win this sort of class.

Next up was Family Pony, a class I just absolutely love doing because it simply describes Ceaser. In the go round, whilst it was pouring with rain and still thunder and lightning the judge asked us to ride on the buckle and do lots of transitions without taking up the reins to show that the pony was a real family pony. This included walk to canter, trot to canter, walk to trot and so on. The ground was slippy and I was very apprehensive about doing it without having a contact in case he slipped but as if he knew he steadied up and produced some lovely transitions for me. The judge pulled us in 1st place and again congratulated me on how well Ceaser was turned out and how perfect his manners were despite the weather.

Getting such a complement is always one that I enjoy as I do put a lot of hard work into my horses, their fitness, feeding regimes and schooling plan. I have only had Taysha for a few days now and to come away from such a big show with those show results is simply fantastic. As with Ceaser, to win a class and come 2nd in another at a show like Revesby Country Fair is brilliant; a lot of county level riders use that show as a warm up for bigger shows so the competition is always quite tough.

After I received 2nd in the Ridden Veteran I had a few comments about people not wanting to enter classes anymore if Ceaser and I were entered, but I really hope we do not put people off! You always win some and loose some, but that is showing for you. I put a 100% into Ceaser and showing him so getting rewards like the above is lovely.
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