A Little Bump in the Road

Here it is March and we’ve been gearing up for a successful road to Rolex.  As any athlete knows, preparation for a big competition is always punctuated by unpredictability.  In our sport, if you’re afraid to break a finger nail, then you don’t show up to the start box.  In my case, I’ve shown up to the start box on multiple occasions & have had a few bumps & bruises over the years.  

This past month has been a bit challenging.   As someone who has competed in this sport for several years, (or decades) I’ve had my share of physical setbacks.  Fortunately I have always bounced back, and I expect this time to be no different.  Unfortunately, my back decided not to wait until after Rolex to remind me that I’ve logged some time in the saddle. 

Last week I went into the hospital for surgery on my back from herniated discs, which are the result of years of wear and tear.  The condition is degenerative & not the result of a fall or a recent accident on a horse.  Both Jam and Cruise are fit and ready for Rolex, but I am not going to be in the tack. 

While recuperating from surgery (as pictured above), I’ve had several days to sit & think.  What is certain is that I’m not going to Kentucky as a rider.  At this point we have not made any decisions about Jam or Cruise.  Boyd will clearly keep the ride on Lusty (Rock on Rose) and I am eternally grateful that I will get to cheer on both Boyd and Buck.  My plans are for a full recovery, and my hopes are to be back in the tack by this summer.  As Susie says, “Don’t rule out this old dog quite yet”!