So it is 9 p.m. on Friday night, and I have just finished packing my own clothes, knowing that the alarm is going to go off at midnight.  

Max (Corcoran) has kindly lent me her computer to send out this quick update. Unfortunately, pictures will have to wait until the next one, but some will be worth waiting for!

This past week has been a hectic training week for the riders and horses. Oded was here Monday and Tuesday, followed by Katie Prudent on Tuesday and Wednesday. Everybody was putting the polishing touches on their performances. Many people say, “Well I would have won the warm-up”—I feel that we have accomplished a lot these past two weeks, and now it is up to the riders to get the best out of their horses in the show ring.

The final day before traveling is always nerve racking. We had to gallop early this morning; we then were allowed to do our normal post gallop care until 11 a.m., after which the horses could rest before jogging for the vets at 1 p.m.  

Good news was heard by all that the team will remain the same. Monday is the deadline for team definites, so should the worst happen we can still substitute a horse and/or rider. Allison and Amy left with the alternate horses today. They’ll stable at Cathy Wieschhoff’s barn.  

Whilst out to dinner with the girls, we did hear that Karen and Allison were having troublesome trips. Karen’s truck pulling the camper was having transmission problems, while Alison had a blow out. Luckily all is well, and although they will be late getting into Lexington tonight, everyone will hopefully arrive safe and sound! Cross our fingers tomorrow for a better trip!

There have been a couple of entertaining parties this past week—I will hopefully get some photos up in the near future. The O’Connor team hosted a team party on Tuesday night—fantastic food, wine and conversation were had by all. A certain Mr. Martin was meant to build a campfire, however with the dry conditions we decided to forgo that one!

Wednesday night was a BBQ held by the Bouckaert team. Jess and Clark Montgomery got us all in team spirits by doing this canoe race on the lake. Teams consisting of two were in canoes—one rower (who was blindfolded) and one caller. Max and I made one team against Amy and Allison. I was in stitches laughing, so I was very poorly directional challenged. When Max removed her blindfold she then saw how off track I had gotten us! It was a fun evening by all and a good night to let the hair down!!

I really need to get some sleep, as tomorrow is the start of something really big. Although nervous, I am looking forward to the Games. Hopefully I will manage to keep you informed.  

Take care, till next time,
Emma