Mike Jackson

Event Rider and Male model....!

23rd February 2007

Emma and Katie from Dengie came to see the horses this week to help me devise a suitable feeding plan for the season. It was really useful to have some professional advice and I hope that the horses benefit from the changes we've made.

Katie recommended that Ella and Fritz go onto Hi-Fi Lite as they are better "doers" and a bit more highly strung than the other horses. We also altered the amount of feed some of the horses get to make sure they're getting the right amount of energy and nutrients ahead of the coming season. This obviously changes depending on what level they are competing at, their age, condition and temperament. Having a professional nutritionist help with the diets certainly takes the headache out of feeding and should help ensure that the horses get exactly what they need for the job they are being asked to do. Of course you can get this service too by calling the Dengie Feedline on 0845 345 5115.

This week Ellie and I went to help model some clothes for a friend of ours at BETA. It was great fun modelling for Zebra Products, although they were long days under very bright lights....so I think I prefer the outdoor way of life and will stick to event riding!

We also went to dinner with Billy Bird's owner Sarah Gallagher and showing gurus Robert and Louise Bell, who also ride for Sarah. It was really interesting to meet them and hear some of the stories about the showing world.

Tommy (our working pupil) has gone back to Italy for the weekend to collect his motor bike, which leaves us a bit short of helpers on the yard. So I've been mucking out 14 horses which is not my idea of fun especially as Ellie's been away working! Let's just hope Tommy returns home safely, as it's a long way back from Italy on a bike!

Tonight we are going to Chris King's surprise birthday party, which will be a good opportunity to catch up with some of the eventers and gossip before the season starts. Not long now!

Mike