July 12th 2004
The term "Youth World" has become a common phrase in the daily vocabulary of competitors all around the country. In just a couple of weeks one of the most anticipated shows of the year will begin in hot and sunny Fort Worth, Texas. Emotions will be running high, lifelong friendships will be made, and nearly every day new World Champions will be named.
Those that are successful at the Youth World not only have a good horse and are a great rider, but they are also at their mental and physical peak. English riders spend hours on end without their irons, practicing their posting and other equitation manuevers. However, the Youth World is more than physically demanding, it is a mental challenge as well. From the minute you step into the arena and into the air conditioning underneath those bright lights, all eyes are on you. When the announcer says the name of you and your horse, it is like a rush. The moment when you can finally say to yourself, "I'm here, and I'm actually doing it!"
This year will be my second trip down to Fort Worth and I will be showing my fabulous horse, The Snooty Fox, in Western Riding, Equitation, and Hunter Under Saddle. I can't wait to go out there and try my best in my three events. The world show is the highlight of the year for me. It is the one show that is the ultimate goal, something to work hard towards all year long.
So much work goes on behind the scenes there. It seems as if the entire place is packed with the country's finest horses and exhibitors, all polished and primed for this one show. From the very second each horse and rider team enters the arena you can see the look of sheer determination and poise. The beautiful outfits alone can be amazing!
Every day I think of ways to improve myself for the show. Anywhere from spending more time strengthening my legs, to practicing the manuevers that are hardest for me. Doing well at the world show is my ultimate goal, the thing that I dream about. I love just going out to the barn and spending hours at a time with Snooty getting to know him better. That way I know what he is thinking every step of the way, and he knows all of my thoughts. I think that is the sort of bond that can help make a good team a great one. When communication goes to that next step beyond spurs and reins, when you can feel that you would like your horse to do something, and they do it.
As each day brings us closer to the big event, youth exhibitors are busy working and showing, trying to get every last detail perfect before they make the trip to Fort Worth. I think that as long as you try your best no matter what, you'll be a success. Nobody knows who the judges will pick as the 2004 World Champions, but as long as you did your personal best, I don't think anything can top that.
