I have just had week 7 of my training. The week before last had been a real shock to the system as I had my fitness assessment at the Newmarket Race School. I don’t want to make excuses but it was one of the coldest mornings we’ve had and we started with the ‘bleep test’ outside! This wasn’t too bad but the assessment got progressively worse with planks, press ups and other random exercises that I have never even done before! I think most of the group found the fitness side harder than we could all of ever imagined and it has been a real eye opener for the coming weeks. Thankfully the riding section went well and I am now cracking on with my training.
For the fitness side I have started doing 5k runs at lunch where I drag one of my supportive colleagues around Regents Park. A friend has leant me a bike stand which means I can cycle in the comfort of my own sitting room! I have also started to increase the strengthening exercises and my warmblood, Daley is about to form part of my training with canter work with my stirrups as short as they can possibly go! At least one of the positives will be that we are both fit for the event season!
We have also had a great open morning in Lambourn where a few friends and family joined to watch my progress, followed by a lovely breakfast at the Osborne’s. We will be doing another one of these soon, hopefully the weather will be warmer, watch this space…
We are only 9 weeks from the event and there is so much to do, training is becoming more intense and the countdown is on to raise as much money for The Willberry Wonder Pony Charity and The Bob Champion Cancer Trust. I received some exciting news last week, that Devoucoux my favourite saddle brand will be branding my breeches on the day!
Till next time….
Catherine
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