A group of very happy school children had the opportunity to spend Friday competing in a team show jumping competition at the National Equestrian Centre, McLeans Island.
The riders had at least three rounds over the hot Canterbury day. Juniors competed at 30 or 50 cm, and Seniors at 65 and 80cm. There was a Tip n Out, as well as rounds where the winner was the one who went clear closest to the optimum time. There was also an optimum time over a jump-off, where a new time was set, and although the organisers were not wanting to encourage speed at this level, it was a bit faster than the first round.
Another round gave riders the opportunity to jump a higher, ‘joker’ fence.
While our stay at the event was brief, what we saw was very impressive. Children and parents were all having fun, it was relaxed, and the amount of support for one another was great to see. There was a real buzz of chat coming from the entry /warm up area that you don’t normally have at events.
The winning Junior team was Rakaia/Chertsey/Southbridge Combined and the winning Senior team was Villa/Springston Combined.
This was the first time the event has been held, and it was organised by the National Equestrian Centre. Feedback received included “an awesome day, it will certainly become a annual event,” and “we had a blast – wonderful to see all the young riders having fun and to hear the support from parents and managers. Villa will definitely be back next year.”
Well done, everyone!
Photos can be purchased from Pegasus Communications website.
