Shane Rose assisted during my presentations at Equitana. Rather fun and it gave me a breather while he talked. Of course I had to pay attention and make sure he stayed on track! He vaulted on to Anne Skinner's 18.1 hand horse to demonstrate the Longden Grip at the end of the sessions. Cossack was not very impressed - everyone else was!
Anne and Charlotte Sweeney, on her young and beautifully behaved chestnut thoroughbred mare Lady Marmalade, were my demonstrators in the Education sessions. The arena was only 20m square and the going was deep sand so it was a bit of a struggle for them but they managed well. As both riders were demonstrating the Grip it was very unstressful for me. The Grip is there in case it is needed. To get to the John Deere demonstration area the horses had to go through the crowds and then not be scared by the roller doors being shut behind them or the constant noise and movement of people.
It makes such a difference to a presentation to have riders who can do exactly what you ask them - whether it is riding correctly or showing errors.
The Longden Grip was launched at Equitana and, I am pleased to say, it has been very well received.
After more than 4 years it is now available.
Shane told us he uses it on the thoroughbreds he breaks in that he would 'rather not ride'. It was interesting the number of 'breakers' who thought the Grip would make their lives a lot easier.
Lollies were a necessity to keep going during the long days.
Lots of interesting people visited our stand including Sonja Johnson who was in the silver medal team in the Beijing Olympics with Shane.
Chris Curran with Shane and Sonja.
Now I am home and for more than just a few days - what luxury!
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