The Final Jump.
By Lara.
Slow, that was the word rushing through my breathing as I locked my eyesight onto the corner of the arena. I was bracing myself for the final and biggest jump in the show jumping competition. All my weight was pushed down into my heels, causing my toes to point to the sky. Eventually I came to the corner cone and turned my horse using one rein. All was silent, even a single whisper could break the suspense that was rapidly building itself up.
My sight was clear as I came in line with the jump, all the hope possible was fluttering around in my throat as I listened to the faint padding noise of my horse’s hooves beating along the sandy arena floor. I gazed upon the bars, staring them down without intimidation. My heels tapped at my horse’s sides, easing him from a collected trot to a steady canter. It was time and the jump was inches away from us. With my heels down and back straight I leaned forward slightly and rested my hands inches up my horses soft mane making me look like a tilted branch.
Before I knew it we were off. My horse launched himself off the ground and flew over the bars, wind danced through my hair as we cleared the jump perfectly. For a steady landing I pushed my lower legs forward slightly and slowed my horse down to a halt as the crowd cheered and clapped at our wonderful performance.
The competition and our performance was stunning, and something I will be proud of for many years.
