Our blogger, Susie Artes, is gearing up to attend the Longines FEI World Cup Show Jumping finals, but not the way she had hoped to go. Although she finished second in the North American West Coast League to qualify for the finals, her full-steam-ahead trip to Las Vegas was derailed when her mount, Zamiro, came up with a slight injury.

Susie’s partner and the kids at the barn made her a practice jump for the World Cup, but now they have painted over the original 2015 date they put on it so she can use it for next year’s Cup | Photo courtesy of Susie Artes

But the indefatigable Susie, good sport that she is, will be in Vegas anyway to support the U.S. riders and fill you in on the inside view of the competition from a professional’s vantagepoint. Here’s her first blog as she prepares for her trip; be sure to check back for her other comments this week.

Ok, I admit it.

It makes me sad to see that horses from around the globe are arriving on U.S. soil for the Longines FEI World Cup Show Jumping Finals, knowing that Zamiro and I should have been among them.

Of course, Zamiro doesn’t have a clue of what we’re missing — he’s just becoming rambunctious in our daily tack walk routine.

Zamiro is hanging out and taking a rest when he isn’t walking under tack | Photo copyright by Alison Dyer

It was bittersweet when I tried on my new riding coat in preparation for representing the U.S. Hopefully, it will still fit when I get my next chance.

But my disappointment is wearing off, and I’m gearing up to walk the courses, an opportunity to learn and absorb as much as I can from the experience so that it won’t feel brand new when I qualify the next time.

I’m excited for all the ambitious riders who have never had the opportunity to see what real international showjumping is. We don’t get a chance to see this level on the West Coast very often, and it will inspire many to pursue their dreams. I hope to see you all there!