I know I would get mud pies and snow balls thrown at me for this but I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again….I like winter. I like the fact that it’s all prep and no pressure. I like wearing layers on cold crisp mornings and snuggling fluffy ponies. I like looking forward to the year ahead with so much promise and all the hope in the world that the year is going to be a good one.
So when the time comes around for winter I really enjoy getting ready. The waterproofs come out (RIP my long jacket, who has been declared dead to re-proofing) the base layers, hats and gloves are at the ready. I order my haylage, get in the feed supplies and stock up on bedding. The ponies are in big poofy rugs and everything feels slightly like and assault course challenge…..ducking under electric fencing with haynets through half a foot of mud and making it to the hayfeeder without falling over because the ponies are munching whilst you’re on the move, gives me a daily sense of achievement and relief! Ha! Grooming the layers of mud off feels like a mini marathon and taking layers on and off makes for a great shoulder mobility routine!
Joking aside I just love the laying of the training foundation for the season ahead. I’ve not had the best time in terms of Endurance success over the last few years so I’m not making any extravagant plans for 2023 but I am excited to see what happens when we get through the winter and into the season.
Beth Endurance 