Tryon Riding & Hunt Club Horse Trials, FENCE

FENCE in Tryon, NC is known for their amazing views from the cross-country course and excellent events.  Houston and I traveled to FENCE in late October for the Tyron Riding & Hunt Club Horse Trials.  This is one of my all time favorite events to attend because you get a hand addressed invitation to attend the event each year.  Most events are published in the Omibus and you map out your season accordingly, no personal contact from the actual event organizor. 

Don't judge us by this picture, please.  We were both still learning about Dressage at this point and very lucky to have a square halt and semi-round frame.  We worked with an all purpose saddle and regular snaffle bridle at this point.  We did evolve into the full Dressage turnout complete with all black tack, fancy coat and Stubben studded bridle.  When we first started competition the rules did not allow for a whip to be carried during the actual Dressage test.  Houston isn't the biggest fan of spurs and doesn't require the whip, just moves nicely knowing that I have it.  We circled the ring until the bell rang for us to enter and begin our test, dropping the whip outside the ring as we entered.  The key is remembering where you dropped it- so you can pick it back up when you're finished.

Houston was spectacular at this event and with close to 15 people in our division, Novice, that season I was very proud of our 5th place finish overall.