2010 Reserve World Champion Jumper

After the ribbons were presented for Jumper III, we were called back into the arena for the high point World Championship presentations. I had said to Joyce, "I think she's got it. I think Star is Reserve Champion," but I was so overwhelmed at that point that I wasn't sure.

MM and her mare, a very cute mare who reminds me of Star and also goes by "Star," took the World Championship, having won all three classes. Because I like her horse, and because MM is actually quite a nice person, I'm okay with that. My Star and I had come, having no expectations, having not competed in the jumpers in over a year (and over three years before that, and not at that height), and did the best we could.

And our best was damn good! Much to my delight, Star did, indeed, earn the title of 2010 Reserve World Champion Jumper! I wasn't sure whether to laugh or cry, so I'm pretty sure I did some of both. We were awarded a big tri-color ribbon, floral neck sash, a red square cooler, a wooden plaque with a silver horsehead and engraved plate, and I will be receiving a little-ass check.

Our victory lap and jump in the sport horse arena were followed by a presentation in the main Colesium later that afternoon.

I could not possibly have been more proud of my horse, and I can honestly say that it was the proudest and happiest moment of my life. And I had done it on my own. I had set out to do my best, knowing that there is not another horse there that could touch my horse if I rode well. And this was absolutely the case. If I had ridden this --> <-- much better, Star would have been champion.

Guess we'll just have to go back next year!