Monthly diary — September

So that was that, although we did still run across country at least. Then I took Bill to a Pre-Novice — and got eliminated for having wheels on my spurs. Apparently they're allowed under FEI rules but not BE rules. It was a shame as Bill has improved so much, scoring into the twenties in dressage and, after some initial spooking, really getting on with the cross-country. However, we had one unexpected outing after being called last minute to take a place that became available. As my helper was away, I plaited up for the first time in years — Bill performed well despite the cauliflowers up his neck and they just held long enough. Next, I'll be taking CF to Blair Castle for the CCI*** so fingers crossed, our luck improves. It should be fun as hopefully my daughter Lissa will be competing there in her first CCI**.