My "Olympic" Moment

It's been fun watching the Olympics this week. The athletes of the winter games are talented and fearless. I can't imagine hurling myself down an icy mountain at speeds of 70 miles per hour. Or catapulting myself off a 394 ft jump with two skinny boards strapped to my feet. Or being squashed in a sled careening down an icy track at breakneck (literally) speeds. The neighborhood golf course hill is quite sufficient for my sledding needs, thank you very much. I am in awe of these athletes, to say the least.

But as entertaining and breathtaking as it has been watching the winter games, they dull in comparison to the summer games because my sport of choice is "The Horse". And I cannot wait until it is time, once again, to be able to watch those magnificent equine athletes do their stuff! From show jumping to dressage I am in double and triple awe of these horses and their partners. I think it's because I can more easily relate to what is required to create the breathtaking symmetry between horse and rider that I am able to appreciate the equestrian events so profoundly. (Can't even imagine the thought of throwing myself off an icy jump let alone trying it!)

I am a dressage rider and watching a beautifully ridden test gives me goosebumps and brings tears to my eyes. For those of you who ride dressage, I know that you understand what I mean. The bond between the dressage horse and rider is unique. There is no distinction between the two while executing the intricate gymnastic movements so distinct to the sport. And to watch an extended trot, or tempi changes, or a canter pirouette at the Olympic level is simply spellbinding.

I had an Olympic moment...once. I'm not sure when (or if) it will happen again but it did, in fact, happen and it was magical. And if it happens to happen again then I will be the happiest person in the world for a second time!