It’s no surprise Karen and Mandiba started things off with a bang in the CIC**, showcasing lovely trot work and consistency throughout to carry a 6-point lead over Will Coleman and Zipp into cross-country. Karen’s also sitting third on RF Amber Eyes, with whom she lapped the ring in a forward canter before the whistle blew; the momentum translated to a flowing rhythm in the test, and Amber Eyes seemed super focused. Karen looked thrilled as they were leaving the ring.
Karen and Mandiba:
Will Coleman’s Zipp is a fantastic mover; his mediums made huge splashes in the wet footing, and his trot work was definitely the most expressive this morning. Why Not had the most consistent test, and Jan had the biggest smile.
Jan and Why Not
The only really unlucky moment came in the middle of Danny Warrington and Will Smith’s first turn on the haunches, when what sounded like several boxes toppling over in the trade fair beside the ring sent Will straight up in the air and almost over. Danny hung tight, and the judges kindly blew the whistle to let him re-do the movement, but the tension hung on for the rest of what had otherwise been a pretty consistent test.
Abbie’s poor boots
The footing in the ring is sloppy, but the crew are diligently dragging and re-dragging. CCI** starts soon. Additional photos/videos to come when I locate more powerful internet.
Liz Millikin and Masterpiece 54
CIC** Leaders:
1. Karen O’Connor/Mandiba – 42.2
2. Will Coleman/Zipp – 48.1
3. Karen O’Connor/RF Amber Eyes – 48.3
4. Jan Byyny/Why Not – 48.7
5. Liz Millikin/Masterpiece 54 – 49.6
6. Jessica Phoenix/Erodium – 52.4
7. Connor Husain/Piece of Hope – 57.0
8. Abbie Golden/Arundel – 57.4
9. Mark Weissbecker/Island Patches – 58.0
10. Werner Geven/Vilas County – 58.5
