Larry Campbell and Zee (CA)
Team #988: Larry Campbell and Zee
From: Escondido, California
Ages: 84 & 21
Combined Age: 105
Test: Third Level Test 1
I have been riding Zelando since June. He was sent to trainer, Jenifer Zakhary, in Norco, California, for rest and recuperation by his owner, Heather Wilkes.
I have known Jenifer for several years, and she knew I was looking for a horse. She called me in June to come and see Zelando. I found him a strong horse to ride but thought he might work. I began to ride him a couple of times a week, and by August, Jenifer and I began to talk about entering the forthcoming show at Del Mar. That proved too soon, and Jenifer suggested the Las Vegas show in early November. We planned to ride Third Level Test 1. In the past, I have qualified at Level 1 and 2 but had yet to ride in a show at Third Level.
At the show, my age showed up. Zelando is strong, and in both rides, anxiety got the best of me, and we went off course. When I got home, we began to discuss a purchase and moving him to a barn closer to me in Escondido. I made a proposal, but in a couple of days I heard back that the seller changed her mind and Zelando wasn't for sale, and so that ended it.
So, no fairy tale ending, but I did enjoy both rides, and as soon as I find a new horse, probably younger, I’ll begin to work on Third Level movements, and my anxiety will have to yield.
