The new carriage driving season is almost upon us so we've been trying to put some effort into getting Mr Ritz 'fit' enough to compete later this month. It is not for no reason that driving tends to be a fine weather sport: one can get some seriously cold bits sitting up there or standing on the back-step. We've managed three outings so far this year and at, more or less, fortnightly intervals it is not a get-fit-quick occupation! We thought it would be OK today but it was a bit nip 'n tuck - the sun was quite warm but there wasn't much of it! And, at the pace which Ritz assured us was the best he could do when we set off, we were soon beginning to think perhaps we'd been a little too keen to get out.
However, judging by his cranky mood - now only able to go very slowly, then only able to go very fast; now definitely wanting to divert off left into that green field, then wanting to dive off down that track - he is well used to his new carriage. He's too much of a professional to misbehave when there's something serious to concentrate on, so the first couple of times we went out he was on his best behaviour. Should have known that wouldn't last.
The new carriage is a very smooth machine; which, coming from one of the most respected carriage makers in the country (Bennington), it should be. Not a squeak or rattle; admirable engineering, light to manouevre; no wonder Ritz is finding it a doddle after the previous machine. It'll be interesting to see how we get on when we put him in a competitive situation with it! More reports to follow!
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