© Stephen Mowbray Photography

Day 1 at Equitana by Emma Pidgeon.

An early start for me as I was too excited to sleep any longer. I sat in my house fully dressed waiting for time to leave. 

Flying down today while I was watching everyone's Facebook and knowing what I was missing was disappointing but I knew I'd get there eventually. And I did. Jade and I walked in the gate at about 4pm. 

We watched the last half of the Dirk Schrade's eventing lesson. It took all of my concentration to understand his accent over the PA but it was well worth it. And worth getting a little wet haha. 

A little trip into the trade stands and I had a handful of shopping bags and I've also picked out a set of Devoucoux jumping boots. They're very beautiful and I think Arthur would love me for it! 

 © Stephen Mowbray Photography

Back out into drizzle for the exhibition eventing which was a thrill! A chance to watch those world class riders do their thing was incredible. Katja Weimann had a flawless round to take out the win. 

 © Emma Pidgeon

My first exposure to reining was an experience. I have a new respect for those horses and riders. Such precision and finesse! 

Short and sweet from me tonight it's currently 1am and I'm typing this on my phone. After a very late dinner at a little Italian restaurant on Lygon st we decided we could walk back to our apartment. Umm yeah we walked for about an hour tonight. I'm tired and sore. Keen to do it all again tomorrow! 

 © Emma Pidgeon