Thrills Without The Spills

Report by Kirstine:

Bored with not competing due to injury to the young horse saw me drag Kestrel out of retirement to take part in a Jump Cross competition at the recently opened facility at Greenfields of Avon near Drumclog.  The organiser, Nesta was very kind and told me what classes were available at the competition on Saturday 2nd July.  There was a mini class with jumps around 2’, an Intro A with jumps at 2’6” but no water or ditches and an Intro B with water and ditch.  I opted for Intro B.  One of the good things about Jump Cross is there are no restrictions on age, height or previous wins, which means that anyone can do any class regardless.  An excellent idea for the likes of Kestrel who has won a lot years ago but would not be capable of jumping big fences now, but equally good for young horses or horses (or riders) who require to gain confidence.

For those unfamiliar with the concept, Jump Cross is cross-country style riding but over fences which are capable of being knocked down. (Very easily!)  The competition is timed with 20 secs added for a knockdown and 50 for a stop.  There are also two “Joker” fences, which you can jump as an alternative.  They are harder and if you clear them it takes 40 secs off your time but make a mistake and it is 40 added!  As the fences fall really easily there is no point in galloping wildly at them, it takes accurate riding to clear them, especially the narrow style fences.  Add to this the careful placing of the fences using the undulating terrain and you get a fun, exhilarating and challenging experience! 

I had a most enjoyable day, first watching the early classes, everyone got round and came through the finish with a big grin on their face!  Add to that friendly people, great catering and prizes and it makes for a great day out.

Inspired by the great time I had at the competition I took the young horse to a training evening which was very informative and great fun. 

The next training day is Saturday 20th August. (check their website www.greenfieldsofavon.com) and the next competition is on Sunday 18th September.