End of the UK season

Joe's last event for 2010 was Pau and Intrepid and Sanskrit both put in great performances in their final event of the season.

Intrepid was in the ** and did a great dressage test scoring 49.7, his best dressage mark in a ** to date. A fabulous cross country followed giving the duo no time or jump penalties, but a few unlucky fences in the show jumping meant they moved down to 18th place. A great way to end the season.

Sanskrit took on the challenge of his first **** following a superb season- the high point being taking second place in the Open Championship at Gatcombe. Sanskrit put in a great dressage test scoring 56.2 and then did a great cross country round. Joe decided not to run Sanskrit in the showjumping phase as he's had a superb season and achieved a lot. It was a tough decision but Joe decided not to push Sanskrit and the plan is that he will come out on fighting form for 2011 with a **** cross country run under his belt.

At home, the arena has been finished and looks superb. Joe teaches and schools from his base and now riders can enjoy an even better experience!

America, New Zealand and snow at home.

The event season might be over, but Joe is still very busy and has just jetted off to New Zealand with Deborah, Lexi and Verity for a well deserved break. Before going to New Zealand, Joe had been in America teaching. Joe went to the US during WEG and, in addition to supporting the NZ team, taught clinics and lessons. This was such a success that he made a return trip and has plans for next year too. At home, Churchill Stud has been covered by a very thick blanket of snow so the horses are having a holiday. Although the horses are enjoying their time off, Minnie the dog is reported to be having the time of her life- chasing balls and diving into snow mounds- clearly unwinding and getting ready to accompany Joe and the team to the events they have scheduled for next year!

Merry Christmas and a happy New Year from Joe and the team.