One Blue Ribbon Fall

Anticipation and nervousness
Are felt through my legs and hands.
Her energy is explosive but controlled;
I'm sitting straight as she stands.
Waiting... Impatient... Annoyed...
I am wishing it to be over.
Everyone knows her name
But me... I'm only a number.

She races out to the center
Cameras flashing and lights beam,
It is time for perfection
No more desires or dreams.
She gives her head to me
My hands are gentle; I'll hold her firm.
We are on cue and hitting every beat;
The pressure is stern.

We stand before the judges
Her mane in braids, and tail flax.
It is critique time...
Holding my sweat back;
I'm poised in the saddle.
She's silent, calm and reserved.
We were good but not the best;
Our reward is well deserved.

She's unbridled and proud;
I'm a little disappointed and sad.
Losing hurts a great deal;
We put in everything we had.
It isn't over when the ribbon's yellow
And the trophy's small;
I'll be back again
And she'll be standing tall.

One Blue Ribbon Fall...