With the end of our 2024 season drawing to a close, our last event of the season would take us to the south of France for both Alex’s and Cool Jacks first CCI5* at Pau. After a fantastic run at Blenhiem Palace and all preparations going to plan, we were all excited to get underway.
After travelling down through France and settling in at the show, dressage would take place on the Friday. Despite the terrible weather conditions, the French crowds still packed out the main arena, creating an electric atmosphere. Cool Jack started with some of his very best work, trending them in the low 20’s. Frustratingly some tension built up leading to some minor mistakes that dropped their score. Despite this, we were pleased with a lot of the work that they put forward and all attention turned to the cross country.
The Friday night saw some historic levels of rainfall overnight that looked to threaten whether the event would continue to run. As we woke up to even more torrential rain all of Saturday morning, it was very clear that not only the course would be a strong test, but the weather conditions would play a huge part in the competition.
With Alex and Cool Jack being slightly later in the day, and the driving rain not letting up, it looked like the cross country would be their toughest challenge to date. They headed out onto the course meaning business, and what a time they had! Cool Jack ate up every fence in front of him, giving a super confident and smooth round, making everything feel well within his ability. With the trying ground, they put in a steadier round, but finished full of running and with ears pricked.
After passing the second trot up, it was onto the show jumping. With a full up and technical track, as well as another great turnout from the french crowd, it was set to be a thrilling final day. Coo Jack gave it his best, and just frustratingly rubbed down 2 late poles but stepped up full of confidence.
With the show over, and a super all round performance, we could begin our trip home back to the UK. But this time we would be taking back a 5* horse and a 5* rider. Cool Jack is currently enjoying a short break before picking back up his work and getting ready for some very exciting plans for 2025!
There have been a huge number of people that have all contributed to helping achieve this moment. We have all made some fantastic memories, both in Pau and on the long journey over the years. A huge thank you to everyone for playing their part and keeping the show on the road.
Here’s to 2025, and the many more memories yet to be made.
