I chose to model my outfit design off an Emanuel Ungaro spring 07 collection dress.
The dress shown in the picture above is the same design I’ll be working off, but have chosen to use the colors black and kelly green. I think these will contrast nicely and set off Jobi’s deep chestnut/sorrel color. Now, choosing a costume that is a dress is a tricky one, not just because it is a dress, but because I may have to get off Jobi at some point during the ride (still figuring out the choreography on that one), so it has to be functional enough that I can walk around in it off the horse and still get back on in a short time without the assistance of ground people.
I will be building the outfit around body slimming underwear that provides the coverage needed – the bottoms cover my thighs similar to bicycle shorts – as well as the stable shaping around the bust to keep everything in place.
Outside of the fashion aspect, Jobi’s practices are starting to give some sparkle here and there. My biggest focus is to shine up his flying lead changes, really build up his strength in the lateral work and put a bit more height on his rearing. He has a stunning rear from the ground, but once I’m in the saddle it is like his ‘safety mode’ is switched on and his rears turn into baby hops. Much of it is likely strength, so I’m trying to build his hindquarters with transition work and I want to set out to the trails here soon to get some hill miles as well to get him in tip top condition.
Jobi’s lay down is lovely, I don’t think I will have any problems with that, we will see as I get some chances to take him to bigger facilities, if he gets more distracted at that time or not. It isn’t his usual self, he tends to work evenly whether at home or at shows so I’m not too worried.
Oh, and here’s a short clip showing his rear without a rider, just some easy rears. Enjoy!
[youtube 0lQsBU4OhJY]