EN reader and now guest blogger Blair Sylvester is attending the Olympics as a spectator this weekend and he has generously agreed to keep us posted about life on the other side of the galloping lanes. Thanks for writing this Blair and thank you for reading.
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From Blair:
The two days of dressage were an opportunity to see horses and riders at the top of their game. I was particularly impressed with Will Coleman’s test. He and Twizzel seemed remarkably relaxed and composed in their inaugural Olympic test. One remarkable aspect of the Olympic games have been the events hosted by the USEF that added greatly to the experience of watching the Olympics.
After going through rigorous security on Saturday I was just able to make Boyd’s test. I thought it was lovely and was disappointed that it did not score higher. It was awesome to see stands that were fairly full and to hear the cheering. If people get this excited for dressage I can only imagine how loud the cheering will be on cross-country.
Friday night I was given the opportunity to go to a cocktail party hosted by the USEF and interact with the proud riders. It was an excellent opportunity to meet many of the sponsors that allow our team to succeed. It is always remarkable how friendly and willing to chat the athletes are. Sometimes I had to remind myself that I was talking to an Olympic competitor. I hope that Boyd managed to make his 11:30 engagement that was inked on his hand. Reports that the course was written on his arm have not yet been verified. I think it is really unique how spectators are allowed to interact with competitors.
Sunday brought on the rain, Will and Phillip’s tests and an opportunity to walk the first eight fences with Kim Severson before the rain and thunder decided to redirect our efforts as we took cover. I was disappointed that the course walk was cut short. I really enjoyed Kim’s commentary. It gave me the opportunity to understand what the challenges were at each fence and how to best negotiate them. I noticed how tight the fences were and how varied and winding the terrain was. I was impressed by the amount of creativity and thought that went into designing the course. I thought that it was challenging and I really enjoyed the way they incorporated England’s rich history into the fences. I hope the “Tower of London” does not live up to its checkered past and everyone manages to successfully get in and out of the combination.
I am incredibly excited to watch our team attack the cross-country course. I have faith in the abilities of all horses and riders involved and I expect a victorious day. Go team USA!!
