Featured Rider - Kristin Bachman |
| Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 |
Kristin Bachman (Part 1 of a 4 Part Series)
Gryffindor
Bay Thoroughbred Gelding, 16.3 h.h., 1994
Country Light - Lani Molly
In 2007, finished 3rd at Southern Pines II Horse Trials Advanced; 4th at The Fork CIC*** - World Cup division.; Competed at Rolex Kentucky, alternate for US Pan American Team Named to USEF Winter Training List.
The New Year seems to be a time for reflecting on the year past and I guess that's as good a place as any to begin. 2007 was a roller coaster of a year, full of first time experiences for Griffin and me. We attended our first Winter Training Sessions and participated in our first US "team" activity, training with the Pan American squad in Florida. Griffin gave me my first double-clear cross country ride at the four star level leaving us at the top of the leader board at Rolex! Unfortunately, some of the most amazing moments of 2007 seemed to be paired with some of the greatest disappointments. I cantered into the stadium arena and right "off course" for the first time in my competitive career. If only it had happened any place else...I am my own worst critic, and while I was berating myself for that wrong turn, I was receiving letters and emails from people relating their own similar experiences. Thank you to all of you whose kindness and support made me feel privileged to be a part of a sport with such generosity of spirit. This year will be the third time Griffin and I make Rolex our spring focus. I think both of us are excited to once again have an immediate goal to be working toward. After a quiet fall, Griffin is feeling well rested, mentally and physically, and ready to tackle the busy months ahead of us. This past year Griffin has really grown into himself. He has
always been quietly assured, but he now possesses a more visible self-confidence. He's an absolute gentleman to be around. He might appear aloof, but he's very playful and affectionate with people he knows. Griffin is a thinker which makes him easy to train and great at his job! I feel extremely fortunate to have him in my life. I'm also fortunate to have had many wonderful people who have helped me on my journey. Mom, Kevin and Gretchen, Ellen and Shaun, Gail, Lisa, and everyone else (you know who you are!), thanks! We couldn't have made it this far without you!
always been quietly assured, but he now possesses a more visible self-confidence. He's an absolute gentleman to be around. He might appear aloof, but he's very playful and affectionate with people he knows. Griffin is a thinker which makes him easy to train and great at his job! I feel extremely fortunate to have him in my life. I'm also fortunate to have had many wonderful people who have helped me on my journey. Mom, Kevin and Gretchen, Ellen and Shaun, Gail, Lisa, and everyone else (you know who you are!), thanks! We couldn't have made it this far without you!In a few short days, we'll pack up the barn and head down to Aiken, SC, home for the next few months. The schedule for February is jam-packed! Between the Training Sessions, schooling shows, and the horse trials for the youngsters my days will be full! I'm greatly looking forward to all of our Training Sessions. The first, Feb 4-5, will be show jumping with Laura Kraut. Last year, her emphasis on straightness and rideability really helped our showjumping. I can't wait to see what she has in store for us this year! I will also be looking to improve Griffin's and my lateral work, which is one of our weaknesses in our flatwork. I have no doubts Captain Phillips will be happy to hear that! We will be practicing our dressage and show jumping in several Combined Tests, and our first scheduled Horse Trials will be Pine Top (GA), March 1-2.
See you out there!
Kristin