Firstly I would like to apologise for the lack of updates over the last few months, but as I will explain it’s not been easy. (Although ironic saying this whilst writing a blog) I am actually quite a private person!

So lets start right at the beginning….

In the first week of the season Finn was put to sleep after we discovered a fractured elbow that he wouldn’t recover from. He was, and always will be the most special Horse I have ever had the pleasure of owning, it was a really hard time for all who knew and were involved with him.

Like everyone, the weather put a stop on our first few outings with Wallace and just as that perked up I had a nasty fall XC schooling that left me on crutches for 4 weeks.

So finally in May we headed to our first event with a solid performance all things considered, and backed it up with another top 10 at Llanymynech in the BE100. He went to his first 3 day Horse & Hound festival of eventing and despite two rails down on the last day costing us the win we finished happily in 9th.

After a successful first attempt at Working Hunter at Bramham he just wasn’t himself and Vets investigations showed some problems in his mouth. We treated them and some time off was needed.  This coincided with new arrival ‘Henry’, a lovely cheeky chap with a very big pop in him!

In late July I had the opportunity to go and do a couple of weeks work experience with Jeanette Brakewell and took Henry with me to train. The improvement in such a short space of time was massive and I jumped at the opportunity to stay full time.

Just after getting going with Henry, finishing 11th at Frickley and then 10th at Llanymynech, 2018 struck again and a slight lameness became apparent. Scans showed a slight suspensory injury. He had 12 weeks rehab and just returned to his owner for some time out to recover. I am disappointed with how it ended but many thanks to his owner for the opportunity.

In the meantime, Wallace underwent much more extensive investigations due to no improvement, which revealed a few underlying problems. One of these problems on their own could have been manageable/treatable, but after discussions with the vets it just wasn’t realistic and we made the heart breaking decision to have him put to sleep.

I am genuinely gutted how this year has turned out. Not only have I lost both my horses, I’ve lost both my best friends. It has certainly put into perspective how precious they are and how quickly things can change. However, they both have taught me masses, and all of this has only made me more motivated to continue to work hard, with whatever situation you are given and great things will be achieved. I am working in a dream job and things are looking positive for 2019.

Finally a few ‘thank you’s’ must be said. Oakhill Vets, particularly Guy Hinnigan who has treated both the horses and was there till the end with both of them. My friends and family for their support. A thank you to my supporters, particularly Millbry Hill and Nick Gill Photography. And to everyone who has sent messages and kind words, it really does mean a lot.

Until next time.

–  Katy Mousdale

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