Whakatāne Pony Club was delighted to collaborate with Farming Like Grandad to host a novice ring day.

This opportunity was embraced by the club as it provided a fantastic platform for up-and-coming riders to showcase their skills and have a great time.

With only the annual Whakatāne Gymkhana in the local area, the event was a welcome addition for young riders.

The goal was to spark enthusiasm among young riders while ensuring the day was full of smiles.

To achieve this, the club carefully selected flat ring judge Tina Mapu, whose encouragement and warmth were appreciated by everyone.

Parents and riders have shared glowing feedback following the event, emphasising the importance of a low-pressure environment for riders.

Many praised the event for being exclusively tailored to entry-level participants, which reduced stress and allowed everyone to focus on having fun.

Highlights of the day included a fancy dress competition, where young riders and their ponies dressed in creative costumes. Another crowd favourite was the snake race where the riders bend up, dismount, eat a snake lolly, remount, and bend back.

Spectators turned out in large numbers to cheer on the young equestrians, creating a vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of a traditional A & P show.

With the success of this event, the Whakatāne Pony Club is looking forward to future opportunities to grow its horse presence and potentially include activities for more senior riders in years to come.

This collaboration stands as a testament to the community spirit that events like these bring to Whakatāne.

Results:

Lead rein: Judges Choice, Cleo Maaka riding Penny; Reserve, Penelope Armstrong riding Tilly

First year off lead: Champion, Alyssa Carson riding Daisy; Reserve Champion, Ada Langley riding Monty

Confident beginners: Champion, Asha Conroy riding Darling; Reserve Champion, Natelle Lewis riding Kaimanawa Coco.