Kaitlyn Hamilton's Diary in Germany

Tuesday: December 13, 2005

Quite an early start--7:00am we were at the barn to get a quick lesson in before the next interview. We worked on our musical freestyle and it went very well. I had almost forgotten how much I love my Spanish style music. The rider from Finland arrived today after a 21 hour ferry ride with her horse (YIKES). She was quite tired but we tried our best to make her feel welcome. The interviewer had us speak into a microphone when answering her questions because it was going to be broadcast on a German radio station later that day--very exciting! Then I was shuttled right away into downtown Frankfurt for a press conference. My parents and trainer came along as well. The show organizers were promoting the CDI and the Young Rider World Cup on behalf of Schenker, and Ann Kathrin Linsenhoff (major sponsors of the competition). The whole press conference was in German so I didn't understand a lot of it...but I stood up and introduced myself as the American rider.

Afterwards some of the reporters came over and asked me questions about my stay in Germany so far and my expectations for this weekend. It was a great experience because I'm learning what international competition is all about. Jochen was helpful again with the language barrier. He has been so supportive and I don't know what I would do without him. I also got to see the inside of the stadium where the competition arena will be set up--it sent chills down my spine. I've only ever seen a professional basketball or hockey game in such a big sports arena--I can't believe I get to ride in there!

Tomorrow we move the horses to the show grounds and get ready to rock and roll! Though I have to say I will be sad to leave the Schafhof facility. Ann Kathrin Linsenhoff and her husband Klaus Martin Rath have been soooooo good to us, and we are extremely appreciative of their enthusiasm towards the young riders and their incredible hospitality.

I'm still pinching myself because I can't fathom how awesome it is that I am here. The Dressage Foundation, USEF, MDA, and my amazing friends and family will never comprehend how grateful I am for their love and support.

I'll fill you in after my first test
Gute Nacht! (Good night)