Horse sports fun in the sun

ALL FOR ONE: Romeo earned a bucket of water and a few other treats carrying around Harry, Zoe and Greer Newman and Sam Brooks. All pictures by Rebecca Williams

A fabulous day despite the hot weather was the consensus at the Tahora Horse Sports last weekend.

“Horse sports is a fun day out for the whole family, with a combination of flat classes, jumping classes and sports events,” said Tahora Horse Sports Club secretary Bridget Malcolm.

“The children were split into three age groups and there were 13 events for each age group.

There were 18 events for the adults to compete in.

“We had lots of junior riders competing, particularly in the seven years and under age group, and it was great to see so many parents and grandparents helping the young ones get going on their horses.”

The big winner on the day was Paula Newman, whose three children also took part, on their ponies.

Paula won the Ginger Tamanui Memorial Trophy for the maiden horse with most points, lady rider with most points, Wiiliams and Kettle Trophy for competitor with most points, MS Millar Contracting Trophy for the hunter jump, Pablo Memorial jump and the Fred Davies Trophy for one horse/one rider most points.

Marley, ridden by Michael Williams, won the open horse with most points title.

Shane Watson, of Marewa Station, had a good day. Competing on two horses he won the Hutchinson Cup for local competitor with most points and the local farmer with most points trophy. He also earned enough points to win the Lands and Survey Cup for Marewa Station.

Oliver Barclay, riding Cupid, won the local child with most points title.

Other junior titles were —

A grade (12 to 15yrs) most points: Rani Holden, who also won the horse with most points.

B grade child (8-11yrs) most points: Maui Holden.

C grade child (7yrs and under) most points: Germaine Manuel.

Jade Memorial Cup for most deserving child: Rylan Matiaha.

Kerry Fogarty Trophy for most promising C grade rider: Katlyn Lee.

Bridget Malcolm said the club was grateful to all competitors who travelled to the club's grounds off Tahora Settlement Road, and all the sponsors.

“We would not be able to provide such a fun day and free lunch and dinner for all competitors without their support.”