A good year for Waimarino pony club

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 3, Issue 3, 11 June 1985, Page 2

A good year for Waimarino pony club

This Waimarino Pony Club District Commissioner's report was prepared by Mrs Evelyn Cooper.

This year it was a great pleasure to have two fully active branches form the Waimarino Pony Club. Both branches held regular rallies and although numbers were not large with an average attendance of nine members at Ohakune rallies and about 1 5 at Raetihi, all were very keen and participated fully. The weather was particularly good and caused very few alterations to our programme of events. The notable exception was the dressage day when it poured all morning and

much credit must go to all the riders who carried on regardless, even if we did present the ribbons and cups the following weekend. The games' day, gymkhana and O.D.E. were all well attended and for the latter two we were very glad to welcome riders from the northern part of our area and Taihape. We all realise the great expense involved in travel-

ling to different areas but the experience both ponies and riders gain is well worth while. It should also be noted that we have a very fine novice course for cross country which is suitable for most of our intermediate riders and senior riders with young horses. The K.C. area games' day at Taumarunui was a highlight for our members, many of whom had not previously had the opportunity to ride outside this district. Eight Ohakune riders attended, some riding borrowed ponies kindly lent by people in Kaitieke and Taumarunui. Six members from Raetihi, also attended. With the host team there were nine teams, providing a great day of entertainment for riders and spectators alike. The opportunity for the average rider, rather than the elite few, to travel, mix and compete with other young riders is rare and very much to be cherished. Particular thanks must go to Ann Roke for her drive

and eninusiasm in getting this event off the ground. We hope it will be a yearly event with all branches participating and we look forward to hosting it next season. Some Raetihi members had a week at camp with the Kaitieke branch in January and by all accounts this was a tremendous success. Four of their members gained 'B'certificates during the season and the Ohakune branch had one 'D' pass and four 'C' passes. When the 'C+' certificate comes in this will be a real incentive for our 'C' riders as the 'B' certificate seems such a big step. We have had many helpers this year and 1 would like to thank Ian and Ann Roke especially for the use of their property and Mrs Nita Wilde our secretary and all our many judges from all around the district and further afield who have willingly given their time to help our members. 1 also commend our members for their enthusiasm and their parents for their help and interest and hope the element of fun and enjoyment which has been evident at all §vents this season will be a continuing feature of the Waimarino Pony Club.