Report for RWHS Riding Test Qualifier 2009

from Sue Westmore

As reported in both the local press and Horse & Hound earlier this year, some exciting new competitions have been launched by BRC specifically aimed at grass roots riders, culminating in a championship to be held at the Royal Windsor Horse Show in May.  The competitions include both showjumping and riding test qualifiers for both junior and senior riders. 

Tendring recently hosted the round 1 and 2 riding test qualifiers at Weeley, and although numbers were low compared to the Lincoln team qualifiers, the standard of riding was high throughout.  A warm up class was held using a different test to the qualifying competitions, with Deben accounting for a good number of the placings, including Jill Hillyard taking first place on A Close Shave.  This was then followed by round 1, ably judged by our Area 14 rep, Zara Pawley.  In the junior section, Joe Mace riding Westvale Victor came second and as the highest placed Deben member, qualified for the next round.  This was particularly creditable as as Joe’s planned ride had gone lame and Vic had been substituted in at very short notice.  In the senior section, Sue Westmore took first place on her own The Footman, recently returned to club competition after a break of 9 months.  Jess Mace riding Medicine Man came 2^nd, Jill finished  4^th with Abi and Claire close behind.

The day continued in glorious weather to round 2, judged by Mary Thornley, where Joe rode a very mature test on Vic and really upped his game but just missed out on the top spot.  However, The Footman continued his triumphant return to the ring by winning the senior section and booked his ticket to the inaugural final.  However, all is not lost for Joe as wild cards could be issued for the final so there is a good chance he may yet be invited to compete there.

News flash!! ... Joe has just been offered a wild card so will be representing the riding club at the final at the Royal Windsor Horse Show in May after all.  Congratulations to Joe!

Pictures kindly provided by Owen Dewberry

Joe Mace riding Westvale Victor