For the third time we arrived at the winter tournament CDI4* in Lier/Belgium. For the third time it is rainy and stormy. For the third time, you can't completely avoid the mud.
Doesn't fit the weather: Delicious for Easter. Belgium is famous for its shock.
However, the "Azelhof" has developed very well. On the first visit three years ago, our first international tournament, there was still the training arena in the competition hall, separated from the competition arena only with the help of a curtain. On the second visit, a tent had been set up to spread. Dia found both very interesting. She had a lot to look at and was well excited about noises, light, colorful advertising and wind-beating tarpaulins. In the meantime, another hall has been built and the competition conditions have improved significantly.
The journey developed slightly dramatically. If there had been no snowfall throughout the winter, snow and grey showers were announced for the day of arrival. In addition, a highway was closed due to a bomb scare and another due to an oil lane. Grey, snow, rain with strong wind gusts made driving uncomfortable.
Dia prepares mentally for the competition.
We had underestimated the town of Lier. A closer look is worthwhile. Even in the rain, a pretty flanders town with picturesque market places, beautiful Renaissance buildings and proud towers and turrets presents itself. A tour is worthwhile.
The first item on the program at noon on Thursday was the Vetcheck. Dia was allowed to take Tatiana by the hand . Momentum, strong thrust from the backhand and clear knee actions in the horse and man ensured a good start in the first competition in 2020.
