I still can't erase that night out of my memory. I just can't… it's impossible. I never shared it with anybody. However, things have changed. It s been 25 years and I've never forgotten. Finally, I've half-recovered. Sadly, I will never fully recover. Now, I can bring myself to sharing my story…the one that has changed my life, forever…
"Come on, Beauty!" I giggled, smiling at the stubbornness of my horse. The reply was a low, playful snort. Once again, I laughed with happiness. My horse was, well, special. I could feel it. Although she was just a common Chestnut, her bloodlines showed great elegance and beauty. Her dished face, flaxen mane and gracefulness showed signs of pure Anglo-Arab. I knew this was dangerous, as many people smuggle these expensive horses… they were worth so much. Of course, that is why she's called her name. The title says it all!
I was 13, at that time. I had so much confidence, courage and ambition… I knew that together, we could make it to the Regionals…or even better-the Nationals! My dream was to win Badminton - and in case you're wondering, it's NOT the game you play with a shuttlecock and racquet! I took Beauty over some practice rails, and smiled with pride as Beauty cleared them as if nothing were there at all. She held her beautiful head high, showing off to all the other horses that she was the best. So, I set up a medium oxer. Still, she jumped perfectly with incredible ease. Her neighs just spoke, "Come on, can't we have some DECENT sized things, here! I'm starting to get bored!" I under stood, and replied, "Ok!" So, I constructed a giant wall, a triple spa and another large oxer. Beauty stared at them, looking like she was saying, "Now THAT'S more like it!"
I knew she had a massive amount of talent and potential. She was the perfect eventing horse – her elegance could easily give her mega points in dressage, she was an amazing jumper especially against the clock, and she also had lots of stamina…great for cross country. Could we do it? Who knows?