May 2010
"We've had a pretty slow year here so far, I have been busy with work, so the horses haven't been getting worked as often as I would like! We have also been limited by a lack of shows to go to!

Izar has had 3 starts this year, we did one PSG at the summer series- suffering terribly in the heat, then 6 weeks later at 'Combined Horse Transport' Swan River Series, managed to win both the Advanced and Prix St George, despite a rather 'expressive' start!!! We followed that up 3 weeks later at the  'Prestige Loans' State Dressage Championships with winning the Advanced State Championship, and placing in the PSG. Very happy with how he is going so far!

Dorado has been out to one Young Horse Class- working well for 7.12. He will be going to his first show shortly!
Huge thanks to Anita for videoing tests at shows for me :) "

photo courtesy of Perfect Pony Photos

January 2010

"Well, summer is here with a vengence! Izzy and Dorado have taken to pretending to be asleep when I go out to ride them at 5am! I've tried telling them that its cooler and there's no flies, but I don't think they believe me!
This year with Izar, I would like to work on improving our consistency in our work. Whilst we have been getting some high marks in tests, they have been offset by lows (we scored our first 9 last year, but it had little impact on the result, as it was followed by a 3!!!) and I know this can improve if I ride a bit better.
I hope we can try the small tour this year, if he continues working like he is.
With Dorado, am just hoping he stops growing before he hits 18hh!! And would like to aim him for the 'Bluefields Stud Rising Star Challenge' for first year dressage horses. He has just started work again after a bit of a break, so it might take a while to get him back into shape!"

Best of Luck Shona for the 2010 Season from Bella Equestrian!