This is part of a series of stories from readers on what they were thinking when a photo of them and their horse was taken. We would love to know what you were thinking! Send photo and a short description to countryandstableusa@gmail.com

Russell Harris has been riding for close to two decades. He and Big Business, a sweet-tempered Irish Sport Horse, have been together now for one year. When they began training with Chris Land of Silent Partners at Middle Ranch, they began winning competitions. This photo is from his second place ride at Memorial Day Classic at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center.

What I Was Thinking
“When I enter the arena, I’m in a zone, memorizing the course, and thinking of where the next jump is. My head is turned here to see the next jump. Big feels it and starts to get ready for the next jump while completing this one.

“After this ride I was so excited and pleased with him. He went clean and clear and then the announcer said our time and it was good for second place! That was one of the fastest runs we’ve had. It was euphoria. All the work and effort came down to that one moment. It’s our one chance and we got it right.”

Russell Harris is owner of russell harris EVENT GROUP, a special event production firm that transforms clients’ vision into reality. Russell’s vision for his own arena look comes true by starting with the classics and adding a dash of his brand color, orange, thrown in.

That, and the fact that he liked to keep things Irish for Big’s sake, makes this Horseware Ireland Lana Sports Hold perfect for his accessories, and most important, the champagne he brings with him now to competitions!