Arena UK ALX Major Championships
𝗔𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗮 𝗨𝗞 𝗔𝗟𝗫 𝗠𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝘄𝗷𝘂𝗺𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝘀
Koning Albert made the trip to Arena UK for the ALX Major Showjumping Championships with a week of mixed results.
We arrived on the Sunday and were stabled alongside Daniella's horses and the Whalls' team. The new stabling blocks looked smart at first glance, but the weather was less than kind. From Sunday through to Tuesday it was either torrential rain or gale-force winds. The rain in particular was frustrating, running off the roof and soaking into the mats, which left many of us battling with wet bedding — we really were all in the same boat, quite literally!
Berti started the week well, producing a lovely steady double clear in the Grade B & C Qualifier on Monday. On Tuesday, he stepped up to the 1.30m Qualifier, jumping with his usual scope and enthusiasm, but an unlucky pole kept him out of the placings.
Wednesday was a quieter day, giving Berti a chance to rest. I took him for hand-grazing and plenty of walks, which he thoroughly enjoyed.
Unfortunately, by Thursday things began to change. Berti started coughing and seemed unusually flat in himself. Daniella rode superbly, giving him every bit of help she could, but he was clearly lacking his usual spark and finished the round looking rather tired. With just one pole down, he still showed his heart, though his lethargy was a bit of a mystery at the time.
On Friday morning we decided to see how he felt in the warm-up ahead of his 7am 1.30m Qualifier. He went well, feeling much better than the day before, so Daniella took him in. He jumped with more confidence, and we both agreed it was best to finish on a good note and head home. Although he didn't qualify for the finals this time, he ended the week happier — and there is always another day.
Overall, we were pleased with him, particularly as this was his first show back indoors, which didn't phase him at all. It was lovely to be away in company at such a well-run show.
A heartfelt thank you to Dani Johnston for her superb riding and knowledge as always, to Daisy Williams for grooming and being endlessly helpful to everyone, and to Arena UK for putting on such a great show. Many thanks also to Dave and Maggie at home for keeping everything running smoothly while we were away.
Finally, as always, we are very grateful to our supporters who help keep the team looking and feeling their best:
- Devoucoux – for the beautiful saddles and leatherwork that give us comfort and balance in the ring.
- Keyflow Feeds – keeping Berti in top condition from the inside out.
- Kevin Bacon's Equine Products UK – for everyday hoof care essentials.
- Equine BioGenie – antibacterial protection for horse, rider, and yard.
- DriRug – quick-drying rugs that keep horses comfortable after work and at bedtimes.
