As usual, I drove on the Joban Expressway and went riding at the equestrian club which is my base.
Riding has presented quite a few challenges, but I hope to clear them somehow.
On the notice board, there was an announcement about the Japan Horse Festival being held at the Equestrian Park in May.
It seems to be taking place over two days, Saturday and Sunday, and our club appears to be participating as well.
I immediately forwarded the email to my horse-riding friends. One of them is hospitalized but is expected to be discharged next Tuesday, so it seems they're looking forward to the Horse Festival in May. Moreover, it would be great to enjoy it with three horse friends.
Additionally, there were announcements about two different tournaments. I haven't participated in a tournament recently.
The route seems to have changed quite a bit. The new route appears to be designed to make simple changes easier, I wonder if that’s really the case?
Counter-canter has been eliminated. If the horse has momentum, counter-canter was not so difficult a task to clear.
My instructor hasn’t suggested participating in a tournament. Perhaps I haven't returned to my previous level of riding yet? Maybe I need to practice a bit more before I can participate, which is disappointing.
Even if it's a small tournament, I understand that participating in a tournament has its significance.
To participate, I need to remember the route and it’s a very good opportunity to acquire detailed skills.
I have personally felt my equestrian skills gradually improve with each tournament I participate in. Better the second time than the first, and even better the third time.
It seems that the instructor who coaches me, or even those who don't, but are instructors at the club, have been watching.
After the tournament, higher-level equestrian practice begins.
That's how I believe we improve in dressage, by stacking one block on top of another, gradually advancing.