Maryland 2009 - by Margaret McKiddie
Winter weather forced the postponement of this ride and only just
relented in time for it to be held a week later, the snow clearing from
the main track in the final 24 hours before the ride. Well done, Mark
Holland, for holding your nerve!
The weather on the day was very pleasant and the tracks rode well. As
one of the Pickerings’ horses was out of action, Neil was happy to ride
one of mine so that both Bonnie and Misty were able to go. It was
Bonnie’s first outing since her fall in June and weather conditions had
hindered her exercise programme and I was not sure how much she would be
able to cope with. Fortunately the route consisting of 3 interlocking
loops meant we could do the first loop, then continue on to the second
when she was going well. Just before the split for the third loop Neil
felt she was beginning to tire, so we omitted the third loop. As soon as
Bonnie realised she was heading back to the venue she was no longer
tired! However we had enjoyed the two loops and best to finish on a good
note