The Thrill of Victory

Published: May 15, 2009 07:33 am EDT

Well my knowledge of the metric system was put to the test today, when the judges said make sure all horses should be on the gate one hundred metres before go, and they would be disqualifying drivers...so me knowing my metric, I was the first one on the gate in every race.

But before the day started we had lunch in the clubhouse for all parties involved from racing officials to coordinators, then we did a tour of the backstretch to talk to trainers of the horses we were driving. It was then I learned that with my four I also had four warm ups to do! And with no paddock barn!! That meant running around to find them as well. So I definitely had some challenges, from style of racing to some different rules, but my biggest challenge would have been my last race of the day.

When my horse came and they were trying to explain the equipment this horse was wearing, there were strings everywhere. I felt like a puppet master - pull out air hood, pull down blinds, pull up overcheck, kick over poles. My first thought was that this is going to be a disaster! But I must tell you it was one race I will never forget, the way this horse changed gears for me after being parked first up a long way I then pulled and kicked every string I could and he cleared and opened up on the field. The hair stood up on the back of my neck, to listen to the loud screams of people cheering was just amazing. Then hearing the words from our own Ted Smith as he was interviewed when I was making my way back to the winner's circle...it gave a feeling of something I've never experienced before, and I hope I get that chance again.

We ended the night with another big, Norwegian dinner. Main course: Deer

Comments

Congratulations on a great 1st day. and Good luck the rest of the way.

Glad to hear you and family members are enjoying this extrodinary event and the experience of seeing another culture and racing style.Nice start .Keep it up and thanks for sharing this with us back home

Brad,

Thanks for the updates - and continued success. Enjoy the rest of your trip.

Go Canada Go!

Wish we could all be there to watch you race, Brad! Great reading your comments. Continued good luck.

WTG, Brad! We're all awaiting your posts with baited breath. Best wishes for the rest of the tour ... rah-rah-siss-boom-bah!

Brad, It's so thrilling to read your blog.

As Pamela says, we can hear you and imagine you walk or run around the stables. I sincerely hope you enjoy every moment of it because I think it's a "once in a lifetime" event.

We have updates on facebook as well and it's a thrill every time there is a new post.

Say Hi to Mom, Dad and Sandra for me!

Manon Gravel,
Standardbred Canada field rep.

Hi! Dad
Keep up the good work, we miss you "Love and Kisses"
"Dad kiss Mom for us and tell her we miss her and Love her"
Katelyn, Melissa and Jessica
XXXXXX
hhhhhh
XXXXXX

Brad, love your commentary, can hear you saying all that, like you were here with us. Sounds like you're enjoying yourself, as you should be. Keep it coming !!!

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