Almost there!

New Jumps!

I've been very lucky over my career to date not to miss more than a day or two to injury so this month+ has been an experience to say the least. I've always said you have to make the most of the opportunities presented to you. I don't think my inbox has been empty for years, our jumps are now painted (with the tremendous help of Jess and Michelle) and my book which has been in the works for a bit over a year is nearing completion. Physically, I've been on the stationary bike and working out my core, in hopes of being more fit than ever for the return. I've not been this productive outside of horses in such a short period of time ever!

It's seemed like an eternity since I've last ridden, but alas it's only been 5 weeks. Lucky, in so many ways my collateral ligament which I tore out of my index finger is healing very well. It should be ready to go this coming week! I'm planning to start with the more experienced and predictable horses, then slowly reintroduce the slightly more feral ones. The risk will be there for some time, I'm doing my best not to rip an anchor out which was used to tie the ligament back in place. Fortunately, I have a brace/cast which will allow me to ride without much trouble.

Our horses have been enjoying the lighter schedule save a few who have been kept in full work by my savior Jess :). Without her, I'm not sure what I would have done! In some ways the timing couldn't have been better. Our guys have been running since Jan and were just about due for their spring break before the summer action. I'm in a very unique position, where they are all qualified for anything in the near future, and have had tremendous success this spring. (details can be found here) I couldn't be happier with their progress.

I'm taking it day by day, but tentatively it looks like the full string should return to action at Stuart in July.

Check back soon for updates...

-D