An eventful week to say the least.
After what seemed to be a very brief escape to London, I returned to Cannes in time to get Merlin conditioned and the others back on track after San Remo. Must say, Merlin was a walk in the park; three days of repetitive bursts of trotting and walking, trotting and walking, cantering and walking, trotting and walking - and now he's fit as a fiddle!
Never without drama:
I got a call from one of my owners Saturday night, and apparently a Swedish family (dealers) contacted him in the attempt to "steal" my 6yo Annie - the arguments being that the sons could develop her further than me, have access to bigger / more prestigious shows, and have wider contacts to sell her. One always tries to remain serene in such situations but how could you not be offended? For a start, I must be doing a good job with her, as is, if they are watching me all the way over there... Furthermore, last time I checked there aren't many riders donning 6 year olds in La Baule Nations Cup, and for that matter, how exactly did they obtain the inside information that I will not be getting access to any of the bigger shows this year? Takes a certain type of character to be so undermining... Enough said.
If nothing else, this just puts more fuel on the fire. Have now decided to ask my federation for almost every CSI4 out there, AND contact the shows directly, surely I'll get lucky and get a spot somewhere?? For now I have asked for Bourg en Bresse, Fontainebleau and La Coruna, also CSI5 Falsterbo - this year it seems they are taking 12 riders and I am 13th in Sweden, hoping to climb up the rankings though at the start of May. No news yet but something's gotta give, we can't just stagnate, not the way we're going, so please please please keep your fingers crossed for me!
On a brighter note it must be about 30degrees down here, absolutely beautiful. Had a great Monday/Tuesday - Francis Connors jetted in for 24hours so we could train the horses in peace and quiet at home. A boost in the right direction, he's gone before you know it - sprinkling just enough inspiration in his footprints. Always such a treat; a magician in his own right.
My friend Pamela O'Rourke flew in yesterday and she'll be staying with us for ten days (aren't we lucky!) - always a breath of fresh air. Today will be busy enough getting everything packed for Pioltello. The plan is to head off around 5am which ought to get us there around 11. Can't wait now, the countdown begins.....
Wish me luck!
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