IN THE SADDLE
What a month we’ve had! The weather has thrown everything at us but Chipping Pony Club members are a hardy bunch and nothing stops them from getting out and enjoying the many activities that their busy committee organise for them, writes Anne Williams. Photography: Diane Marsden
From our tinies to our teenagers there is something for everyone at Chipping Branch of the Pony Club.
Recently, at Church Farm, West Lancashire, members enjoyed show jumping instruction by Andrew Millin, international SJ rider and course builder with vast experience. His excellent teaching obviously paid off when a few days later our team of Ruby, Caitlin, Tallulah and Jade came third in an inter-branch show jumping competition. Sadly, Covid restrictions meant there were no spectators but, as always, our ace photographer and committee member Diane took plenty of photos for us all to enjoy.
Some of our intrepid riders travelled to Somerford Park, Cheshire, with its extensive range of jumps and obstacles for cross country lessons from the brilliant David Llewellyn. The weather was atrocious with heavy rain and strong winds. Riders and long-suffering parents were frozen and soaked through but all thought it very worthwhile and learnt so much. There were no reports of frostbite!
Our young riders and new members are being gradually introduced to mounted games and the Prince Philip Cup competitions. The Prince Philip Cup was introduced in 1956 by the Duke of Edinburgh for ‘ordinary children on ordinary ponies’ with the aim of encouraging a higher standard of riding throughout the Pony Club and to generate interest in riding. It is competed for by children in more than 300 teams from all over the country.
Winners of their Area competitions qualify to compete at Zone Finals and from them just six teams qualify to compete at the annual Horse of the Year Show. This is usually the first time children experience being part of a team, helping and supporting each other. It is a wonderful way to learn balanced riding, new skills and above all to have lots of fun with their ponies and new friends. Who knows, maybe one day our little lead rein riders will be competing at the Horse of the Year Show!
Ever the optimists, we look hopefully ahead to a sunnier and warmer month when members will have the opportunity to enjoy a Junior Cross Country Rally and training in stable management, flat work, show jumping, cross country and mounted games.
If you’d like to know more about Pony Club, and in particular Chipping Branch, please contact the District Commissioner Joanne Conlon 01200 445143 or email: chipping@pcuk.org
