Wow! So I am home from Norway and oh my gosh I don’t know where to start! It was such an incredible experience and it is one I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I met so many incredible riders and coaches. 8 nations came together to learn and compete and I believe I can say for all of us friendships where made that will last a lifetime. I have met some people that I will never forget. The format of the competition is really interesting, the 8 nations schools send 2 riders and either 1 or 2 coaches. There are 7 teams and the way the teams are decided are by each competitor and coach drawing numbers from a hat. After the teams are decided then horses are drawn for the teams and finally the theory presentations topics are also drawn. Each team during the first round ride for scores both for the team and individually. Then on the last day of competition each group presents their theory presentation and the results are announced. I am super proud to say that my team and I were able to bring home the gold for the team placing. 

This experience was not only about the competition though. The hosts at Norsk Hestesenter were so welcoming. They really did adopt each and everyone of us that came for the competition. They took us on a carriage ride at night around the property which is very close to the lake so you got a beautiful view of the lake and houses surrounding it. It was a truly special experience. Everyone who took us was so hospitable and happy to chat about what it is like to live in Norway. We had Norwegian delicacies made for us everyday during our stay, and on the final night they gave us a proper send off with a beautiful traditional meal with music and plenty of celebrations. It was beautiful. I think what I will take away most from this trip is not only the memories and competition, but also all of the new friends and contacts I made while I was there. 

I will never forget this experience and I would do it again in a heart beat. I want to thank Victoria Lewis and Jeremy Micheals for selecting me and giving me the opportunity to go as well as supporting me along the way. Also a big thank you you to Hartpury for giving me the opportunity and support to go to Norway. Now on to gearing up for the show season and working on dissertation topics! Until next time!