- Successful training in the early morning © GHPC Vanessa
London Olympic GHPC News
A nervous stomach, power napping and the vet check
It is quite funny, really. Everyone is relaxed, the horses fit and conditions ideal. Just before the vet check when the horses stand there gleaming as if they were painted, the riders put on their official gear and take up the reins in order to present them at last, you yourself are so nervous as if you were not just doomed to watch. It is no help that Undercover trots like a dream. He is in a good mood and the centre of attention, which he enjoys. Vanessa has spoiled him like every day, Edward and Nicole have had a fine training session with him and then he was allowed to relax as always in an extended gait. Edward was also happy, as could be seen from afar.
- Power napping © GHPC Vanessa
While the team went for lunch, Undercover took a power nap. "Tigerrrrr," laughs groom Vanessa because of the gentle snoring sounds coming from Frits as he lies with his head in the golden yellow sawdust mixed with sweet-smelling hay.
5:30pm. So we are now standing at the arena with our hearts beating like mad. But it would not be the Olympic Games if we did not have such fits and by the looks of things we are not alone, as many of the people accompanying the riders seem to be concentrating nervously. Then off they go! Forward march, or rather trot. Frits is an absolute dear of a horse. He trusts Edward even if the many people in hats appear strange to him, cameras keep clicking away and he gradually finds all the excitement round about infectious. A glance at the registration papers, a look over the horse – he has passed! "Now the games can begin," beam Edward, Nicole, Hans Peter and Vanessa, too. And even if the professionals knew all along, I am not the only one who is totally relaxed now.
The schedule has now been announced and Edward is on the second dressage day. His start time with Undercover is on Friday (3 August) at 11:54am on the dot. Maybe a nice cup of English tea will help my nervous stomach.
IMPRESSIONS
- Relaxed gait © GHPC Vanessa
- Edward Gal © GHPC Nicole Werner
- Cool as a cucumber © GHPC Nicole Werner
- At the vet check © GHPC Nicole Werner
- Team Netherlands is here! © GHPC Nicole Werner
- Forward march! © GHPC Nicole Werner
