I’ve never been much for “team spirit.” I wasn’t on any school teams, mostly because I was at the barn all the time. In college I watched more games at home because I preferred to avoid the crowded student section where I wasn’t allowed to sit down for 4 hours. But something has changed since then… suddenly I’m a FAN. I’m planning posts around games, and I’m the annoying screaming neighbor in the building on game day. Now the World Equestrian Games are almost here…this is even better than football…an Olympics with nothing but horses. Sweet. I keep picturing myself cheering for the USA after their nail-biting win at the Games while looking through a camera lens and simultaneously nailing the perfect shot. How I’m going to physically pull that off eludes me, but I’m feeling pretty good about my team. And unlike the high-fiving old guys at the sports bar on Saturday, I’ll refrain from chanting.
The Chosen Ones just scream “experience.” Maybe that’s what I find to be the most exciting. Each are confident, seasoned four-star riders, and many are carrying the motivations of recent successes and revelations. At an event this big, I feel like experience is important in order to maintain focus and confidence. They’ve been there, done that. Now just go in there and do it again. Only better than ever before. I expect to see some good riding and amazing athleticism and talent from the horses (and face it, it’s all about the horses). Another reason I can’t wait for the competition is I know the competition will be fierce, right down to the last rail. (I’m just picturing the dramatic victory gallop following the final double clear show jumping round that wins the competition for preferably my team) But in all seriousness, I expect the cross-country to be a major deciding factor. I mean, this ain’t Rolex.
Don’t tell anyone, but I’ve never even been to Rolex. I know, it seems really sad. It’s just never happened for me. But I’m going to be at the Games, and I’m excited and anxious and a little nervous all at once. I don’t have any profound insights about the selections, but I can’t wait to share the experience of the WEG with you through my camera lens! …dorky, huh?
Eventing Nation is watching…
USA! Go Eventing!
