From Mary Hirsch:
Why yes, it did rain on the Willow Draw Derby on Sunday, August 26, just north of Weatherford, Texas. But so what, this is eventing. Enthusiasm stayed high and it was hard to tell if the galloping pairs even knew they were getting wetter with every stride.
Some 55 entries from Preliminary to Green As Grass rode dressage in the mercifully covered arena. Then about an hour after their dressage time it was out of the start box onto the cross-country course, beginning with 5 stadium jumps. The efficient Willow Draw system has scores out promptly – and posted online on a live basis, no less – so riders may go on their way as early as possible. But Sunday many stayed out in the rain to cheer on their friends riding cross-country later in the day. Riders and horses had the option to school on Saturday, and put it all into effect for a score on Sunday.
[Results]
Some divisions were spared the falling water, and overall even the spectators judged overcast, wet and 75-85 degrees better than the baking 95-105 temps that might have been. Unfortunately the last division, Green As Grass, had to finish with dressage and forego cross-country when the skies finally let loose a torrential downpour that made the course less safe and lasted for quite some time.
Willow Draw schooling horse trials and derbies are a special advantage for riders in the general area. Owners Tre’ and Janet Book pride themselves on obstacles that would do credit to a recognized event, fully decorated and flagged. The original course design is thanks to former Irish Team Olympic coach Mary D’Arcy O’Connell and previous-Olympic team and 4* rider Stuart Black, with further input from noted decorator Debra Sue Rogers.
