In The Saddle
Chipping Pony Club’s Lizzie Peck and Anne Williams reflect on the activities of the last few weeks and the sad death of their long-serving president. Photography: Pete Morris & Tina Johnson
Chipping Pony Club received some very sad news recently – Gordon Garment, the club’s longest serving president died at the age of 89, leaving an irreplaceable hole at the heart of this small but active and family-orientated organisation.
Throughout his time at the helm, he took his role as president very seriously and hugely enjoyed the interaction with club members, their families as well as serving committee members over many years.
Although Gordon would have been the first to admit he was no expert when it came to horses, he appreciated all aspects of Pony Club life and regularly cheered Chipping members on from the side-lines whilst watching competitions at venues including Myerscough, Osbaldeston and Somerford Park.
Gordon’s ready wit and way with words made him something of a legend as president. Presiding over presentation night with aplomb, his one-liners gained him a reputation as a comic talent and he also led several Garment family teams to victory at the club’s annual quiz night.
He was closely involved with Chipping Pony Club for many years, long before he became president. His son William and daughters Lizzie, Katie, Jane and Jo were all founder members when the club was formed back in 1977 and his wife, Daphne, has been branch secretary for more than 40 years.
Chipping Pony Club held a very special place in Gordon’s heart and he remained immensely proud to be its president until the end of his life. And Chipping Pony Club was certainly proud to have him as their president.
Members have been busy as usual this autumn. The annual Area Horse and Pony Care Competition took place in Kendal. We were represented by Maisie, Lexi and Grace in the 10 and unders, who worked hard together to win and represented the North West of England at the National Championships. With great excitement the families travelled to Leicestershire for an overnight stay. They competed with teams from all over the country. But they were ready – even practising over their breakfast. They faced nine rounds all about the care and handling of ponies with some very tricky questions. They were all thrilled to hear that they had come ninth out of the 21 teams. To quote one of them: “We were ninth out of the whole country.” It was a very exciting day!
The rest of the members have been busy competing in Area dressage, show jumping and arena eventing competitions as well as mounted games practice sessions. With lots to look forward to between now and Christmas, there’ll be no rest for our enthusiastic members and hard-working committee!
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
