Maiden and Me at Alsager EQ
What a day! Our first ever dressage outing together – and what better place to do it than Alsager EQ for the British Dressage Preliminary 14 test. I was buzzing with excitement (and nerves), and so was Maiden, my clever and curious mare.
Before our turn in the dressage arena, I decided to let a younger rider take Maiden into the showjumping ring. I thought it would be kind to share – and a great way to see how Maiden coped with all the bright fillers and the hustle and bustle of a new environment. Well, the girl did brilliantly! She came first and cleared all the small fences like a star. Maiden looked proud as anything, ears pricked, ready for more.
Then it was our turn. Time for the Preliminary 14 test.
To be honest, I could hardly focus at first – the indoor arena echoed with every sound, and the space felt a bit closed in. But as soon as the instructor began calling the test, something clicked. We settled into a rhythm. Maiden responded to my leg like a spring – a little squeeze and she’d bounce forward, but lift my leg and she’d slow down instantly. So sensitive, so sharp – just how I like a horse to be.
Then came the unexpected bit… halfway through the test, Maiden got a bit confused and tried to jump a railing! I couldn’t help but laugh – her mind was still in jumping mode from earlier. Note to self: maybe no more jumping and dressage on the same day! Still, it showed me how quick-thinking she is, always looking for the next challenge.
We didn’t get placed, but I was so proud of us. For a first dressage attempt – and an older pair getting back into the swing of things – we did really well. I couldn’t have asked for more.
What stood out the most was how she listened to me. I loved seeing her ears twitch back to catch every aid I gave. That connection, that sensitivity – it’s something special. Maiden is keen, clever, and full of promise. We’re such a good team, and this is just the beginning.
I’m already excited to try more – leg yield is next on our list, and we’ll be working on making our transitions super smooth.
What a day.
What a ride.
What a horse.
And hey – not too bad myself, considering I’ve had some time off!
