Chapelstone Equestrian Construction

Seamus is going really well. The first show I took him to was to a local unaffiliated event and we were 3rd in 65cms and 5th in 75cms. As it was our first outing, it was important not to blow his brains by stressing over bigger classes. The emphasis was to go have fun and more importantly relax. I needn't have worried. Unlike my old horse who was a complete stress head, Seamus is laid back. So laid back, he is horizontal! He came off the trailer, sniffed the air and took everything in his stride. Bless him!

The following the weekend we took part in the Para Equestrian Jumping demo at the RDA National Dressage Championships at Hartpury College in Gloucestershire.

I have to admit, I'm a bit of a geek when it comes to wheelchairs and mobility gadgets, always interested in any design which would make my life easier around the yard. So when I see another person using a really nice chair, I have to ask them what it is etc. I suppose its like men and cars. In fact I think there should be a Top Gear version for mobility products! I digress..
We arrived about lunchtime, our demo was in the evening so it gave me plenty of time to bed Seamus down and spend the afternoon watching the dressage. Although I've never had that much involvement before with the RDA, it is lovely to see them all in action. I'm always amazed how these riders perform such intricate movements despite their disability. For me with jumping, all I have to do is sit there and try to stay on - these riders however have to really ride their horses.

The Para Equestrian Jump demo went splendidly. Seamus jumped his socks off and got quite excited by the applause. There were 6 of us in the team - two of each grade - jumping our grade heights. At the end we were presented with a saddle cloth each reading RDA National Championships 2009 on one side and Para Equestrian Show Jumping on the other.

After a fantastic performance from Westie at the Christmas BPSJA show at Arena UK, coming home with 7 rosettes, Westie went down with colic and had emergency surgery. Eight weeks box rest and three months off, he has only just started ridden work in walk. We are still unsure if he will be able to continue his jumping career - only time will tell.
William, my beloved Thoroughbred, after a year off following an operation for Proximal Suspensory Desmitis was sadly put to sleep after his hind leg gave way. It was the toughest decision I've had to make, but it was the kindest thing to do. I shall miss him deeply.

The search has been on for a new horse and I have been up and down the country trying to find 'The One'. This process is not easy for any rider, and is particulary apparent for Para Riders. For me, the horse has to tick a whole long line of boxes. Is it good to handle? Is it bothered about the wheelchair? Does it have an honest jump and a steady one at that?! Is it strong, does it pull, does it respond to voice or two whips etc etc. If it is sharp and spooks does it spin to the left or right? Might be a silly question, but because my left side is so much weaker the my right, if it spins to the left I'm on the floor! I have more of a chance of staying on board if it goes to the right. And of course there's the usual good to shoe, box, clip, hack alone and in company etc etc.

After a detailed search, many hours in the saddle and occasionally landing in a heap on the floor, I found Seamus an Irish 16.2hh from Kent Horse Producers.
I'd decided to go to a dealer for two reasons. First of all, it was a chance to see a large selection of horses in one place and secondly if the dealer is a reputable one, the horse usually comes with a warranty should it not turn out to be suitable or turns out to have a vice. There is very little come back from a private seller - a lesson I've learned the hard way.
Searching the web, particularly the Horse and Hound forums, I found that Stephen had a fairly good reputation.

I spent a week first of all in Kent trying out many quality jumpers. Some I liked, some I didn't and one I got off as soon as I mounted! In the end it was Seamus who ticked most of the boxes. Beautifully schooled, a proper jumper on him with nice steady strides. We went for a gallop on the North Downs - first or last he was happy. Quite lazy, so I use two schooling sticks as well as my voice.
I returned the following week to double check I'd made the right decision and for the 5 stage vetting, which he passed.

Seamus arrived home last week. Watch this space to find out how we are getting on.

My thanks go to Stuart and Deborah of Chapelstone for making this happen.
And for John Fulcher for his kind donation.

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