Two Wackys went off to check out The Amersham Dressage and Competition Venue new layout. The show was a mix of BD and Quest. Alfie Rode two Novice tests and Red rode two prelims. Both of us opted for a MQ and a BD class. It was nice that the day was fairly quiet so we could meet up with one finishing as the other was starting. The other Wacky Riders are still hibernating!
The new middle arena (with jumps in the picture) is looking fabulous.
We warmed up in the big open section of the outdoor arena where you will also find the Secretary Hut. From here your turn to go is announced over the tannoy system.
The indoor arena is available to use if you need to hide from the elements but Alfie finds it a bit too tight to warm up in if shared with other horses.
We completed our tests in the back walled arena. One side is open boards and one side is close to the fence.
I do miss the mirrors under the judges box for a cheeky straightness check.
It will be interesting to see how they layout the show when there is Combined Training and UA Dressage day on at the same time. There is plenty of room but Alfie isn't good with horses jumping close by. If they run jumping right next to the dressage it wont suit him, unfortunately.
For those of us not on a diet on show days I mustn't forget to mention the fabulous cake. But be quick when its gone its gone! Some show days there is a catering van in the car park, otherwise there is TV Kettle, Drinks and Snacks to purchase in the black cabin.
The Car park is hard standing and clean, with a grass area to the side if your like Alfie and always need a pee after tests.
Amersham is fair distance from us, but its an easy drive over the County Border. As with everywhere these days the Motorway is unpredictable so we always leave a little bit of traffic catch up time.
The Venue is on a fairly narrow road so make sure you can reverse your wagon in case the oncoming car is driven by a plonker who cant find reverse! If your turning right into the venue as we do then the venue signage could be clearer from the road. It is well signed but you could easily miss the turn if you weren't going slow enough and with the narrow road you don't want to miss the turn.
Results can be found on the Secretary hut window Results are also posted on Facebook in case you don't get to see them on the door Test sheets and rosettes are collected from the open hut.
The venue is friendly and welcoming. When heads aren't down counting you will be greeted with smiles from the Secretary box as you ride past