First Level Virtual Debut

Trying to film a First Level test to submit to Amelia Newcomb for review was a bit of a comedy of errors.  One day I was setting up the Soloshot only to have it not turn on... because I forgot to charge it.  Another day I rode the test but ... forgot to turn it on somehow?  I think there was another botched attempt, perhaps the dressage court wasn't available.  And when we finally got it, the boards and letters were not up so I had to guestimate and asked Amelia to excuse the imperfect geometry.  Plus I think I was sure it would get messed up again somehow so my turnout was not very sharp.  I was tempted to re-ride it and try to do better, but I decided to go with a more show-like scenario, and even though it wasn't our best effort ever it was a pretty fair representation of where we're at. 

Amelia was as always very positive and supportive.  She praised our harmony and relaxation.  (Yes, finally Cupid has been very relaxed in the outdoor arena... too relaxed sometimes!)  

Harmonious overall...

...one small spook notwithstanding

The biggest thing she said we need to work on is that we show noticeably less bend through the body to the left.  She suggested incorporating some in-hand work.

10 meter half circle to the left

Other areas for improvement she said were to continue improving using his topline, push for more in the lengthenings, and work on transitions.  Her suggestions included riding lots of circles and serpentines, adding some lunging with side reins, and getting him to stretch down and reach for the bit.

Bad transition, trot to canter

Canter, left lead

Our first halt was decidedly not square

The second halt was better

Lengthening in the trot

Stretch circle

So we're not quite ready for a real show, and who knows when that might even be.  But it was fun and helpful preparing a test ride and getting some feedback.  Here is the link for the full test: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1kd_SPMSE10QcsQA8mDsuUz00SA_32yYs