Melanie Nilles

(x-posted from my livejournal)

It was only a local schooling show, but Beau earned a 69% in his in-hand class.  He only rated a 6 (out of 10) in his conformation, but some of the comments will change as he grows and matures, and widens (narrow chest–whatever.  he’s only two).  The judge did give him an 8 (out of 10) on his trot, with good comments about the elasticity and reach.  I don’t see that his shoulder is steep or that his neck is set low either, so I’m not sure I trust the judge’s comments and score.  Any horsey flisters care to comment on your opinion?  I won’t argue if I’m wrong.  Mostly, I’d like to know if I’m just not seeing something, or if I shouldn’t take the judge’s comments too seriously?  It was only our first time and not a rated show.  Maybe another judge will see him differently?

Oh, and our local dress code is lenient.  I know I’m not dressed up.  Besides, it was HOT and HUMID Saturday.  Yuck!

Here are some pics from the photographer’s site:

(I just realized that this was after he rubbed his number off while itching his head on his leg.  I put it back before we walked off.)

(my hair wasn’t cooperating to stay in the french braid–here it looks gawdawful.  But don’t we look nice together

(this is the one I ordered as a 8×10.  It was only $25, and of course it won’t have the watermark on it )

You can see more of Beau and the pony mare who was shown as an in-hand prospect here: Marge Schwartz Photography.  It was an interesting day, but Beau mostly behaved.  The middle part of the triangle, he pulled a jump and play, but I made him go back and try again, just because I don’t like my horse getting away with shite in the show anymore than at home.  He did it again, but not as bad.