ALX Horseboxes Championships, Arena UK

Koning Albert stepped up a level this week and moved to his first indoor jumping of the season. 

He took it all literally in his stride with Daniella Johnston riding superbly as usual.

Monday was a washout for all the outdoor arenas and lots of stabling but fortunatley we were inside most of the week. Berti competed in 3 Qualifying classes for the Star of the Future Grade B/C's, 1m25/1m30 and was amazing every day, gaining double clears and getting placed 4th and 5th in his section on two of the days. In the Grand Prix, he sadly tapped a pole off which was such a shame for Dani and him, but the course was very tough with only 12/67 gaining DC's.

On Friday, Berti and Dani stepped up again and entered the Trevor Burrows 1m30 class. We were all very pleased as they cracked yet another Double Clear and took 9th place. This was another tough course that Berti seemed to really enjoy and he is really starting to show his talent.

We decided not to enter the Trevor Burrows Grand Prix (final) as Berti has performed all week over some difficult tracks and we couldn't be happier with him. We feel its very important to know when to stop, and even though Berti is 8, very fit and was fully up for more jumping, we care so much for him that its not worth overdoing it like some people who were jumping 2 classes each day. I've had a great time with friends at the show and can't thank Dani and Kate enough for all they do.

The weather has been filthy for a lot of the week and the Team at Arena UK have been so helpful and worked tirelessly to accommodate riders given the dreadful weather at times, so thank you to them from us.