My Diary

Henry and I had a fantastic trip to Ireland! Necarne is a great venue with outstanding facilities, and everyone was very welcoming.The all-weather arena for Dressage and Showjumping is something that events in England would benefit from hugely, and all-weather cross country ensures that the long journey for everybody will never be a waste of time.

We were early to go in the dressage, and he gave me his best test yet at this stage of his training. My marks from the three judges were well spread - judged first in class by one, and 22nd by another - and while realising that they inevitably see the test differently, I did politely enquire about the differences with the Ground Jury.

Consistency in Dressage scoring remains a contentious issue in our sport, and anything that can improve consistency will be seen as a huge positive step by riders.Cross country on the Saturday was also very fulfilling. Henry was a bit eager out of the start box, taking a couple of fences to settle into a rhythm. He made mincemeat of the six big hills - a ferrari of a thoroughbred - and with just one sticky moment at the first water, gave me a great ride finishing strongly, clear and inside the time.

Saturday night in the tent was a great atmosphere, as it was all week, with riders, grooms and supporters all gathering to eat, drink, watch rugby and have fun!

Sunday weather was very unsettled, raining hard all morning, so I retreated to my lovely lorry (and to watch T4Sunday) after the trot-up. My Showjumping round was unfortunate, particularly as I was lying 5th. Henry didn't seem at all happy on the surface and really lacked confidence in his footing. he rolled an uncharacteristic four poles - more that the rest of the year - and my hopes for a place disappeared fast. He tried really hard, but the extra effort went in jumping higher at the expense of accuracy.

On reflection, he is a fantastic prospect for the future for me and my owners Paul and Christine Kilmister, and it was great that Paul and son Tom were there for the weekend.