11-08-2007 Ashdown Forest
50km Endurance
This was absolutely amazing. She rode this ride like she was a youngster at 12.35 kmph in 4hrs and 5 mins. Plus we decided to ride in her snaffle without a martingale and what a difference. She was so free and happy yet still sensible. We did have breaks!
The first vetting was interesting. Her heart rate started really well, then she clocked something in the bush and managed 64 beats in one minute. The vet took it again and it dropped to 54.
The ride was demanding. The ground was not great in places and we seem to just keep going up and down hills, which Gabby did not mind. Her fitness level since Plumpton has improved so much. She struggled on the hills there. The hard work has paid off!
We had to cross a stream four times. Gabby decided she didn't want to get her feet wet.................so she jumped them.
She really proved herself on this one. So pleased. And to finish off, she past her vetting with a heart rate of 49 and got a completion which considering the heat and her original heart rate was very good.
Then she blessed us and finally learnt that she does have to go home and loaded in 5 mins. Memories of Beachy Head in the rain spring to mind where she took over an hour to load.
There are more photos available at:
http://www.radfoto.co.uk/html/egb_ashdown_forest1.html
(pages 1/2 and 21/22)
This one being the best:
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
|
||