The Parikino Sports Day may be turning 85 this year, but it remains as vibrant and exciting as it was on day one in 1928.
On Saturday, March 2, the club will celebrate the milestone at the Shaw farm on Whanganui River Rd, 8.9km from SH4, and all are welcometo the party.
Long-time stalwart Donald Wickham, who was president for four decades, vividly recalls his first appearance as a competitor when he was a pre-schooler. He is now 66.
"Yeah, I was 4 when I first attended, and we used to ride sheep at that age. Now it's mainly horse sports, although being a real family day, we have plenty of activities for the kids, including carpet rides around the paddock towed behind a ute - it's a family festival day," Mr Wickham said.
Farming operations are traditionally put on hold for the day, so farmers, farmhands and shepherds can compete in a variety of land-based activities, mainly on horseback.
Mr Wickham said that back in the day, a host of country sports days were held in the district, but the Parikino event had virtually outlived them all.
"In the old days, there used to be dinner dances in the evening, but with many of the marae dry [alcohol-free], they appear to have died out. We will have refreshments available and a free barbecue in the afternoon."
The pony events begin at 9.30am followed by the hack and shepherd events after lunch.
"[But now] Bryce Conybeer has taken over and is doing an excellent job," he said.
"To celebrate the 85th anniversary we will be focusing on entertaining our older members a bit more than we have in the past. It should be a great day in a wonderful setting. Thanks to Richard and David Shaw for allowing us to use their land.".
