And just like that the Summer Outdoor season is done!!! We’ve held a number of training events at both Old Hay and Bethersden. Jane hosted days at Old Hay plus came to Bethersden to provide training there, as did Sara Howe. The Club tries to offer the choice of using a dressage arena, a cones course and obstacles at these training afternoon/evenings. It’s great to see new faces coming into the sport, familiar faces with new turnouts and seasoned equines still going strong.
On the 23rd June we held an Inside/Out at Bethersden. A good number of entries (23) on the day although a little hot.
3rd August we held a joint ODE with Bradbourne Driving Club. Again, the weather was kind and good number of entries. Jane offered training to those who wanted it the day before and allowed people to camp overnight.
We had scheduled a Showing event for mid-August, but a lack of interest forced this to be cancelled.
We have the AGM coming up and hope to run this alongside the Christmas meal. The Star at Matfield will provide the venue on the evening of 14th December 2024, although at the time of writing, the menu has yet to be decided. We do have lots of matters to go through. If you are unable to stay for dinner, please do still come to the AGM. The AGM packs will be out soon and will have some information regarding social license and class structure, etc so please do take the time to read it.
We plan to host A Try Driving Day in 2025. This will be held at Susi Anderson’s Little Tiffenden. Susi has kindly offered the use of the RDA ponies and fun bugs. If anybody would be available to help with this day, please let us know.
A Test-Driving Day is hoped for the Spring. This would comprise of a test being judged then training offered and a chance to drive the test again. More details to follow.
We hope to again host a joint event with other clubs this summer. A one-day event at Old Hay is the likely option.
An Inside/Out at Bethersden and more training days are planned.
Some members have suggested a camp this year. This is being considered.
If you do have any suggestions for the club, please do get in touch. We are always looking for new committee members. Generally, we have four meetings a year and some help with setting up, running and or clearing away at events is all that’s needed.
With the Indoor season now upon us we hope to see lots of you out there driving at these events.
President: Mr Barrie Luck