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It finally happened rather unexpectedly - a challenging Third Level Test 3 at the Beat the Heat Show in Tucson last May. But it was a great feeling to earn my USDF Bronze Medal. The road to Bronze has been a long one - but, fortunately, I didn't have to travel it alone. Like Dorothy on the Yellow Brick Road to Oz, I had lots of help.
The Lion gave Dorothy courage, but mine came from the wonderful horses I have enjoyed riding the past 15 years. April was rescued from starvation but carried me to dozens of shows up to 2nd level. Her death was a real loss of a friend and show partner. Baron was
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rescued from abuse but became a dramatic performer. And a very special thanks for the Bronze to my devoted partner, Khalota de Meia Lua (that's Portugese for Charlotte of Half Moon farm).
Dorothy had a Strawman with a heart of kindness, but I had my family & friends. My mom bought my first horse and took me to the barn when she had other things to do. And husband Larry, still hauls me to lessons and clinics and shows when he has lots of other things to do. Dozens of friends and students have carried my water bottle and provided hugs at shows.
Trainers provided the Tin Man's
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intellect as I struggled to learn the intricacies of dressage and the challenges of showing. Some of the first ones taught me to lunge young horses and to work them correctly over the back (and since I only had young, unbroke horses, that was perfect). Each trainer has had a special gift to help with my stages of learning - ride each horse forward; use long and low work to relax the horse. Others introduced the strange concepts of "half-halt," sitting down in the saddle, lateral movements and the outside rein.
Learning how to finesse each movement, develop collection and impulsion - each skill was a process of understanding and
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