My Diary

Overall, 2006 was a very negative year for me and the yard ? my worst year as a professional event rider. Some of the ?lows? were very hard to bear, with the loss of Alida, the virus that devastated the yard and the death of my dog, Jed.But despite everything, I learn more about myself than I could ever have imagined at the time. The turning point came with my trip down-under in search of some new horsepower. Not only was it good to get right away to a complete new world, but it gave me so much time to think and get back my perspective.The general attitudes of Australians and New Zealanders just seemed so positive and the trip really re-energised me. I spent four very hectic weeks at horse trials (including Adelaide 4*) and traveling all over Australia and New Zealand looking at horses. I have never been much of a ?spectator?, and to spend four weeks like that was very educational. All the people I met were fantastic and I want to send huge thanks back to my many new friends, particularly Sharon Ridgeway and her family. I must thank them for some insight into childcare as well. I think I?m better suited to horses!2007 will see a very different Polly Jackson ? a new and improved version, hopefully a lot less stressed!