I realise that it is 10 months since the last newsletter was sent out. I really do not know where the time goes. The outdoor season still has a month or two to go and diaries are already filling with the coming Indoor season dates.
Weald Harness Club members are getting out and about, both at local events and some travelling further afield. It was wonderful to have two of our junior members participating in British Young Driver clinics at Stow on the Wold, and at Onley, plus competing at Onley, Bluemans Farm, Sandringham, Glebe House and latterly at my event at Old Hay, Brenchley. Rudi Krikorian is being very successful with his pony, Tinks, whilst Eti Kember is having fun with Donna Simmons’ ponies and my horse, Niall. Both are being monitored by the BYD trainers who are looking for future GB representatives for 2026 or 2028 BYD World Championships.
The club has put on events at Chequer Tree Fishery, near Bethersden where a World Cup afternoon was well attended. A second similar event was run at Blueman’s Farm, near Hastings, many hopeful to use the water splash as training. They were disappointed as no water available due to the hot weather and hose pipe ban. Last week I hosted a 2-day training event followed by a One Day Event. The camp was well supported and with 3 trainers (Sara Howe, Jane Smith and me) available, we managed to provide 25 individual lessons and 27 sessions for groups over the two days. There were 2 dressage arenas available, a full cones course, plus the use of a fixed post obstacle to drive. The ODE had 22 competitors. My thanks to Linda Hamblen and Donna Simmons for providing prizes for the ODE, plus to Sean Rustrick of Rustrick Accountants in Larkfield for generously giving the club £75 which was put towards small gifts for the class winners. Jane Smith of JS Teamwear will be sending WHC branded polo shirts to Wendy Carpenter and Kathryn Howard-Greenfield as she nominated them as being the most worthy following the training and the ODE.
Some members have suggested a camp this year. This is being considered.
Joint Winners: Ali Bones & Helen Bridges with no penalties in the cones or obstacles
Lamb’s Farm Winners
VSE: Chris Grist Novice Pony Short Course: Kathryn Howard-Greenfield
Open Pony: Diane Hogben Novice Horse: Eti Kember Para: Tracey Spencer
Gateway Newcomer: Mel Bovis (1st and 2nd with two ponies)
I would like to thank all the helpers and stewards that attend the events to make them possible. If you have time to volunteer at one of our shows, please do so. I always try to make sure you feel valued and will provide you with refreshments. I know from personal experience when I offer my time at shows, a cup of coffee and a smile go a long way to offset the cold (or heat) when your time is given up for others’ enjoyment. REMEMBER competitors to thank your stewards!
I look forward to seeing you at future events on the club, National or Indoor circuits.
Chair: Jane Lamb