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Old 02-10-2011,
 
 
 
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Ltc4h is offline
 
Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: Pa
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Default Show Jumper turned Eventer

Although the story of Udonna is still in the early chapters, judging from all of the signs, it will continue on for many more. Even without prior knowledge of the mare's accomplishments as a successful Grand Prix show jumper, it's obvious Udonna is a special horse. Substantial in size, chestnut in color, and a striking white blaze are her physical attributes. Combined with a tremendous amount of scope, bravery, and most importantly a trainable demeanor, "Muffin", as she's known around the barn, may have what it takes to be successful in Eventing as well. Her rider is Marilyn Little-Meredith, a name that may not be immediately recognizable in the Eventing community, but certainly is in the show jumping one. Marilyn has a long list of accomplishments as a show jumper including multiple Grand Prix wins, representing the United States internationally on several occasions, and even induction to the East Coast Show Jumping Hall of Fame.

"Back in October during the WEG, my husband turned on FEI TV looking for coverage of the Games, and as it happened, the cross-country phase of Eventing was on. He called me in to watch it, hoping to illicit a "shock and awe" response. I remember his words to be,"These people are crazy! This looks terrifying!" I countered with, "No, it looks awesome! " A week and a half later, I had decided that not only did it look awesome, but I had a feeling I could do it, and was going to enter the Maryland Horse Trials to test the waters. After literally three hours of thought, much endured laughter from the many eventing students I teach, and a brief consideration of the 40 horses on the property, there was no doubt in my mind that "Muffin" was the only horse with the scope, gallop, movement, bravery, and stamina necessary to advance to a serious level on the 3-Day field. Even more importantly, I know her well to be of a highly programmable mentality, which would be necessary for any sort of a fast-track crossover."
 
 
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