August News

It was great to see so many like minded showing people at the Royal International in July. It was my first time at Hickstead either to watch or compete and we had a really enjoyable couple of days, and the weather just topped it all!!

As I write this I am surrounded by ironing as I start to think about packing for the Summer Champs next week. The weather forecast isn’t convincing me yet that it won’t rain, so I am considering packing for all eventualities. It is probable we won’t be able to move in our lorry for all the “just in case” bits I put in!!

The first bit of news I had was from Leigh Gange:- I can’t believe I actually remembered to get my news in on time this month. After having not quite the season I planned for with my 143cm WHP Copper, I have decided to have a break from workers after only reaching the water tray at the royal!! Instead we have been doing lots of showjumping and were on the Pony Club Area teams for showjumping, dressage and prix caprilli (in which I came 2nd in my arena missing out on top spot by 1 mark).  Cops jumped beautifully round the first rounds of area SJ and the 2nd round until  we came to the dreaded water tray but this time we were not eliminated so we are making progress at last. My next time out showing will be at the summer champs so hopefully by then we will be going so much better. Also this month I finally ventured into the show ring (only at local level at the moment) with Mandie Haynes' Welsh section B, Glanheulog Tinkerbell, with much success, coming 3rd first time out in the M&M ridden at BCA and 1st in the M&M ridden and qualifying CTR showing champs a week later. We have also done a couple of show ponies classes coming 2nd at the Charity show at Widmer (again qualifying for the CTR showing champs) and 10th in our first HOYS & SEIB Search for a star qualifier. Both Mandie and I are extremely pleased with the way she taken to showing and have entered her for Bucks County and hopefully I will be taking her to the Heritage Champs in October.

I also had an email from Louise Gaunt telling me of their travels:- We decided to take a weekend break in the west country and set off to Chard (along with the Sargent, Hall-Jackson and Bebbington families)  Harry and Jerry continued their good run with a win in the 143 HOYS qualifier and really made the trip worthwhile by getting their Champions ticket too (Harry’s favourite part was winning the best rider card !!)  One of our former ponies, Fudge (Pebbly Toybox) got the 133 whp ticket their too with Kristina Hall-Jackson. 

Harry persuaded me that he would prefer to take his week’s holidays in that very exotic resort that is Hickstead!  We had a great time and have since decided (probably controversially) that we will not chase RI qualifying tickets next year (famous last words !) because you can have just as much fun there without the worry of the pony baking in the heat – he can be at home recharging his batteries for the forthcoming Championship shows.  4 days spent in Kenmare with the Sargents have left us refreshed and raring to go – but whilst we were there, we heard the really very tragic news that Pebbly Pepperpot, the exquisite  little coloured pony had been struck by lightening and killed in the storms that hit Shropshire on Monday 28th July.  She was a prolific winner for us in Coloured, SHP and Cradle stakes classes – we will never forget our time with her and I am sure will never be forgotten by the little jockeys that were lucky enough to compete on her.

 Gabrielle Bonham who last year had such success in Show Pony and SHP classes has a new pony – a section C called Brierleyhill Bossman who she will be aiming at M&M 138cm WHP. They seem to have started well together being 3rd in the Cross Country and 4th in the Show Jumping at Pony Club camp the week he joined them! Liz Bonham was delighted to see her old coloured pony, Soulbury Spot On, who has recently gone on to a new home win his class at the Royal International before going on to be Champion then Reserve Supreme coloured.

Our boys, Brimstone the Prospector and Tetcott Paper Boy have certainly been busy recently! Aimee and Paddy really enjoyed their first visit to the Royal International. The weather was good, the going great and such a lot of friends and familiar faces, all in the same place at the same time! Aimee kept her cool and rode well and I was very pleased with them both. Next day it was on to the PC area dressage team competition where both acquitted themselves well.

On Friday, it was back to Hickstead, this time with Taffy. Katy had spent the previous couple of weeks doing some cross country schooling with Taff so he could be prepared for anything the course builder may throw at them and this certainly paid off - Taff was pinging! He jumped one of only four clears and we all held our breath whilst the results were called, and were ecstatic when he was announced as the winner. He then went on to be Reserve Champion. We are so lucky to have come so far so quickly with our boys and I can’t thank Katy Payne enough for sharing her wealth of experience with us and teaching Aimee. We have had such an incredible time.

Aimee (bless her!) had stayed behind at the yard as she and Paddy were off to the PC area SJ at Keysoe and she was going up that afternoon with the rest of the team. As soon as Taff was announced winner I called to let her know. I don’t think she believed me at first as all she could say was “You’re joking!”

The next morning I hot footed it to join Aimee at the SJ where she and the other members of the Vale of Aylesbury won and qualified for the PC Champs in August. Another late finish, home at 11pm then a quick sleep before PC camp the next day! Taffy went for the first few days with Aimee showing his versatility by practicing the musical ride and Paddy took over midweek. The end of camp saw us all draw a long breath after a very hectic 10 days and me make a mental note that we won’t try and do it all next year!!

They are now taking it easy before the Summer Champs, though on the Saturday we will miss the Desert Orchid with Paddy so we can drive to Cheshire for the PC Champs. Who said this was a “summer break”!!

Good luck to you all over the coming weeks and I hope the Champs were successful for you all.

Welcome to you all! At the time of writing there is less than two weeks to go before the Royal International, but I am sure that  by the time you read this it will be over for another year. I do hope all you Area Seveners had a fab time and please send me your results to include in August’s news.

I have seen a few of you out and about, but mainly only the “workers” this month, so please let me know all that has been happening on the flat so I don’t leave you out!

On my travels I caught up with Denise and Chrystia Reynolds at Staffordshire where despite the miserable weather, Chrystia and her lovely Irish chestnut, Pure Chance put in a brilliant performance in the 133cm WHP to take the HOYS ticket. Congratulations to them!  We look forward to the full report in future issues and finding out how the rest of the family have been doing.

I was very impressed with the numbers and quality of the entries in the WHP’s at The Royal. The course certainly sorted them all out. Greenfields Willow (Will) still looking fabulous for his age partnered by Ellamanda Gee jumped a lovely clear to take 2nd spot in the 133cm WHP.

I received the following email from Louise Gaunt updating me with her news:-

Finally, school has ended and Harry is home.  He had a week off though, towards the end of term and we had great fun (if not too many rosettes) at Cheshire (2 days) and Lincoln with Jerry (Mayflower Magic)  where they jumped consistently well.  Arrived home late and tired on Thursday night and Harry announced on Friday afternoon that he was going to Shropshire & West Mids.  !  A quick wash (of pony and clothes, not to mention jockey) and we set off very early with the Sat Nav firmly switched on because we have always got lost trying to find the showground previously.  The weather was inclement to say the very least and the Intermediates made very heavy work of their course.  Worried mother rang lots of “advisors” and eventually put Harry into the ring with firm instructions to lean back and look up!  Jerry and Harry put a very brave face on it and jumped a fab clear.  Then comes the long wait whilst everyone else jumps (thanks to Jill Wormall for her guidance!!!) and eventually Harry and Jerry were called forward as the winners – wow.  We missed qualifying for the RI so many times this year by one place that it was a great relief to get the HOYS ticket relatively early on – and they got the reserve spot in the Championship too.

 In the meantime we have been to the Royal – we love watching all the workers there.  Harry was pleased with his 9th place there and then went socializing for the remainder of the day.  Now we are setting off to the West Country for a bit of a holiday at Chard and Stithians and going to the beach afterwards – weather permitting.  You might think that is mad but Shropshire must be the only HOYS qualifier that doesn’t have the “Dessie” ticket too.  Jerry is then having a well earned 2 week mid season break whilst we go on holiday !  Good luck to all Area 7 members at Hickstead. We will be waving the banner there!

It has been busy with “Team Grangelands” out and about at the shows. Taffy (the hairy) went to 3 Counties where he stood 4th in the HOYS Welsh section C in a very large class – seems he has a second career to his M&M workers. Since then he has been busy expanding his girthline with a few weeks out of competition whilst we chased round with the plaiteds. East of England was one of the nearer showgrounds for us with Doug and More Park Flash jumping into 3rd place in the 153cm HOYS. It was then off to Staffordshire where he jumped clear again to be placed.

 Although The Royal Show is relatively near for us, Doug was due in the ring at 8am, so we decided to go up the night before. Although we only had 2 ponies, we took two lorries due to the amount of humans staying over!! We were delighted to be accompanied by Gabrielle Bonham whom Aimee will be staying with at Pony Club camp this year, though judging by the amount of clothes they got through in just one overnight stay they will be coming home with mountains of washing by the end of their week!!

I would like to say a big thank you to Security at the Royal for finding my mother that night. After a few glasses of bubbly as it was her birthday she went of to the ladies and over 30 minutes later hadn’t returned. (It wasn’t that far!) I must have looked a sight stood in the security hut, a little worse for wear, in my PJ’s at nearly midnight explaining that I had lost my mother. Believe it or not they found her wandering near a different horse box park having taken the wrong turning and loosing her bearings!!

After all that we made it to the ring on time, but unfortunately Doug and More Park Flash were not placed in the HOYS qualifier. Aimee and Tetcott Paper Boy fared better with a 9th place in the 133cm WHP.

The middle weekend of July saw Taffy and his now contracted girthline go with Katy Payne to contest a HOYS flat class whilst I took More Park Flash and Tetcott Paper Boy to Kent County. Paper boy (Paddy) jumped a lovely clear and we were all thrilled and shocked when Aimee was called forward to win the 133cm HOYS WHP class though gutted that Katy was not there to share it with us. Aimee is over the moon as it means the world to her to be going to HOYS, especially in her first season. It has taught me not to give up believing in the dream as I did tell Aimee after the Royal that maybe it wouldn’t happen this year but she wouldn’t have it! Thanks to all that have supported and helped her get this far, my mum for everything and especially Katy who found the pony for us and has taught them over the last year. Her advice has been invaluable. Thanks also to  Susie Gee for sharing her dream with me – I think you knew it was our day!! I think it was too much to hope for a double that day but More Park Flash and Doug jumped another excellent clear to be 3rd. I hope that they upgrade the yellow to red shortly as I am sure it is much more Doug’s colour!

I hope you all have a great month and look forward to your news before 14th August!!

June News

Reynolds News - Chrystia  had a great start to her season with her little chestnut 13hander Pure Chance being Novice WHP Champion at our Valentine's show. They have gone on to have some good placings culminating with qualifying for Royal International at Gate Inn! It is all very unexpected with him as we bought him this time last year off the Pony Club website in Ireland for Will to hunt! When we sadly had to retire Caebryn Mini after HOYS 2006 (she is due to foal in July - all terribly nerve wracking for us!) Chrystia decided to jock brother off and introduce Chance to the show ring

Will doesn't really mind as he has the lovely Foxy (Woodvale Lucky Charm) who does a good job of nannying him around the Nursery Stakes. If only Foxy could learn the course instead of having to leave it to Will! We have high hopes for the combination next season!

Four year old Chymme has a very pretty 'Barbie pony', the Section A palomino Inglebrook Oberon also courtesy of the Barbour family who are quickly becoming our preferred supplier of ponies! (Foxy also came from Sienna).

Chrystia has also been given two ponies, by a very generous Fairy God Mother, how lucky is that! The first is a lovely old event pony Wingerworth Gino Ginelli who is by the show pony stallion Mischiefmaker and who was bred by Mrs Philip Fleming at Barton Abbey He is full brother to her HOYS small hack Wingerworth Sassenach shown with such success in the 80's. Despite this illustrious breeding he has never been shown but did make the British Pony Event team!  Chrystia is doing her first BE Intro with him at Upton House in July if my nerves can stand it! I am pretty sure she is harbouring thoughts of trying him in 15h WHP but she doesn't realise I know yet.  Also with him came a sweet 4yr old 14hander by Welton Adonis out of a Covenham mare who she hopes to show and event. She goes by the name of Ariadne of Aynho so hopefully more news of her in the future.

So that is us up to date. Good luck to everyone else in Area 7 at the Royal International.?   Best wishes to all!
Denise  

Here is some news from the Gee Girls...  Ellamanda and seasoned campaigner, Will, alias Greenfields Willow, now at the tender age of 18 , is as bouncy as ever, defying old age and cushings.  Talk about ‘Men Behaving Badly’ – he very nearly dropped me the other day!  In between thinking of new ‘games’ to play, Ellamanda and Will qualified RI 133 WHP, with the only clear at Baston.  The pair have also been hunter trialing and eventing, their team finishing 2nd at Aston le Walls.  The best year Tabi (now 19!) and Will ever had was when his workers were heavily interspersed with eventing, going champion at both East of England and The Royal.

Hermione and Bambi (Blackhill Trapeze) have captured the cute factor and had a number of wins in Cradle Stakes, with Championships and reserves along the way.  In their final year in the class together, Hermione has just grown into him!  Looking now for the next size up to make a sensible transition to 133s via Nursery classes, I am enjoying trawling the ads on the internet.  Most women love to shop for clothes.  I love to shop for ponies, as my long suffering husband knows only too well.  Trouble is I’m not good at parting with them either.  They become such special friends!  In the yard we also have two special Foresters.  Willoway Goldilocks is the Prima Dona, qualifying show hunter pony and heritage for the summer champs, as well as Novice 133 WHP.  A versatile young lady!  And her niece, Willoway Tia Maria is soon to be out and about.  A late starter, she has hunted this winter and is forming a partnership with Ellamanda too.  At 13.2 we shall have some fun with her, both girls going the dressage route as well with the able assistance of resident trainer, my sister, Ginny Oakley.  Lucky us!

Watherston News  Hi Clair - sorry, news is very thin on the ground due to A Levels, sore backs and viruses (Fi has the first, ponies the other two!!)  We have only been to a handful of shows (boring, but better for the bank balance I suppose) Leah (Straith Liath) was 2nd in the RI 15h whp at Fitzwilliam and 4th at Rutland County, she has also done some BSJA and indoor eventing and we hope to take her to a couple of BE events if we can squeeze them in between exams and Fi going to uni..

  Fi has also had the ride on Heather Champman's Mattie Flynn who in between hunting and showjumping has done her first intermediate workers this year.  In her three shows, she was 1st Novice and 1st Restricted at Area 7 Valentine's show, then went to her first winter champs and was a creditable 3rd in both the Novice and Restricted Championships. Her only other show was Area 7 Spring Festival where she won the intermediate novice, she is now going eventing too.

We are doing a couple more HOYS qualifers, but as we aren't going to many shows, we have to rely on the News Review to catch up on what's been going on, so keep up the good work!!

I have also had some news from a new member,  Jessica Suffling who is having an excellent and consistent season:-
Hi there, Thought I would just pop you a quick e-mail to let you know how our season is going. My name is Jessica Suffling and together with my Dartmoor Briars Amaretto (Kanga to her friends) we compete in the small m&m whp. We are new to area 7, which is great as you seem to do so much!! We had a frustrating start to our season as we kept on missing out on that elusive RI ticket so after 3 3rds and 3 2nds we came to the show at Addington a bit resigned to another near miss, it was a great shock when we won and we were still smiling a week later when we picked up another 2nd at Windsor.

After our we gained our RI ticket we thought that getting our HOYS ticket as well might be a bit too much to ask, however at the east anglian native show Kanga put her best hoof forward and picked up ticket number two.

We are now looking forward to a somewhat quieter summer, but we are heading off to the BSPS summer champs for the Premier league red division final and the David Manning champion of champions.

Sorry if this is a bit of a long but we are so pleased with our home-bred mare it's hard not to go on about her. Good luck with the rest of your season

Jess 

Tanner News

Patrick has had a few outings on Ann Bowley's lovely sec C, Persi, (Ashgrove Renown), being placed 3rd in his 1st junior Nps ridden and then 2nd at  his next, Area 7 show Addington, he is going to start workers with him soon as he jumps brilliantly. It has given Patrick a complete personality transplant as far a ponies are concerned and he is out in the school every night building courses or practicing his displays, lets hope it pays off! Harry's new NF has had hardly any outings as, Rugby has taken over. Having had a trial for Bucks he now thinks he is Lawrence Dallalgio! Now the season has finished hopefully we can get going with Christoph, (Summerhill Christoph). Great show once again, well done area 7'ers.

Just to remind people young judge training still available, ring 01494523522/07768170982.
WHP clinic's booked with Mandy 31st October at Quainton stud, get your names down early to avoid disapointment, she will be back for a follow up session 30th December at Quainton. Flat clinics with Matthew Lawrence are also being arranged, if interested ring Sam on the above numbers.

Regards Sam

Team Grubbins news

Having been very successful at BSJA last year, Sammie Judge has been competing her versatile Connie, The Bascote Poacher (Egg to his friends) in the M&M exc 138 WHP. Starting the season at Addington Valentines show with a 3rd in the Novice, and 4th in the Open WHP before going on the Area 8 winter and winning both the Novice and Open Mixed Height M&M WHP in two very full classes. On to NPS Area 12 where in the RI Sam was the first person all day to successfully jump through two fences on a  90 degree angle to each other, going on to win and qualify. Rounding off the day nicely she also won the Junior WHP later. At Area 7 Spring Sammie and Egg were 4th in the RI WHP. A month off followed for exams before East Anglian Native where they were 3rd in the Intermediate.

Well done also to Leigh Gange who has the 143cm WHP Copper. They had a fabulous Winter Champs with a 2nd in both the Restricted and Open 143cm WHP and being placed in the Gold Cup – excellent on their first Championships together. They were also 3rd in the Open at Area 7 Spring and have also been doing some BSJA at Windsor Park jumping clears in the Discovery and the Newcomers.

And so to my own news. The boys have been busy recently! Aimee has done some classes with Brimstone the Prospector (Taffy) winning an NPS Junior M&M WHP at NPS Area 12, then the NPS Novice WHP and going Champion the next week at the NPS Spring Festival at Malvern. She was then 3rd on him at our Area 7 show in the M&M Open WHP. Katy took the reins for the RI WHP coming 6th.

It was then off to Windsor for both with Taffy on the Saturday and Tetcott Paper Boy (Paddy) on the Sunday. I am currently trying to work out how I managed to get a speeding ticket in North London at 10.29 on the Saturday morning when I was a Windsor and my car was locked up at the yard – still, that one will be an ongoing matter with the Met Police! Taffy had an unlucky pole in the RI and Paddy was 6th in the plaited equivalent on the Sunday.

Two weeks later and we were off to NPS area 29 in Wales – on Taffy’s birthday, and, as far as we know his first visit to Wales (not that impressive when you are a section C!) Taff behaved like a petulant teenager out of the ring but really showed off  when it counted  jumping the only clear in his RI section, taking the ticket and then going Champion. Way to go Taffy!!

The next week saw 3 plaiteds make a trip to Midlands County for the HOYS WHP. After an early start at  5.15am I fell asleep in the lorry only to awake to find us going the wrong way round the M42! Arriving with minutes to spare, I studded and tacked up Paddy, Aimee and Katy watched the course (she had missed the walking!) whilst Doug warmed him up. The resulting 1 unlucky fence down but a cool and calm rider and pony was a great credit to all that helped out. Doug later rode More Park Flash for Katy in the 153cm HOYS coming a very creditable 5th in his first outing since mid April. After such an early start we were all hoping for early home. WRONG!! What is it with me and the lorries I travel in? A couple of miles before junction 16 of the M40 and a tyre went!! We hobbled off the motorway and then (to the delight of our mobile phone providers) spent the next couple of hours trying to get someone to come and fix the tyre! Anxiety turned to boredom and Doug lightened the mood with comparisons to the Big Brother House (though we would have loved to have been sat in the Jacuzzi at that time!) Finally we were saved, the tyre replaced and we were on our way – 7 hours to get home and 2 ¾ to get there!!

South of England saw us take both ponies in two lorries, each on their own (don’t ask!) and arrive within an hour of each other! Still, we had a great day. Paddy jumped a lovely round and was 2nd in his HOYS class. Katy made an unusual foray into flat classes on Taff in the HOYS M&M and although he had a lovely time snoozing in the sun when they were stripped, he performed like a star in front of the judges being placed 3rd. He then went on to be 4th in the HOYS M&M WHP and we all did a bit of shopping whilst we were there so great day out!!

Congratulations  go to Eleri Guy and Highland Jury for qualifying for the RI in the M&M WHP 122cm section at NPS Area 29. Jules tells me that he won the same class there in 2007. Also Congratulations to Juliet O’Connor and Murphys Law who also won in the RI M&M WHP exc 138cm at Area 29 making a it a clean sweep for area 7!

Thank you all for your news this month, and please do let me know how you are doing. By the time you read this it will be close to the Royal International. Congratulations to all those that qualified, especially those from Area 7 and hope you all have a successful and fun time there.
 

News seems to be a little short on the ground this month - so I am assuming you are all busy out at the shows and enjoying the fab weather we have been having over the first couple of weeks of May!!

 Our Area 7 show at Addington the first weekend in May seemed a great success. It's always good to have such great surfaces to compete on at a time of year when the going can be a little unpredictable. Thanks to all who put in so much work to make it happen and give up their time for nothing for the love of showing.

 I would like to welcome India and Ella Wheeler into Area 7. Ella rides Star Anise and does Show Hunter Pony, Show Pony and is competing in Nursery Stakes for the first time this year. India has Samavic Talisman competing in M&M lead rein. I look forward to hearing all your news over the coming months.

 Good luck to everyone this month and let me know how you do!

March News

Hello to you all

As your new Area 7 press officer, please let me know all your news so I can let Head Office know in good time. I am sure you are all enjoying the start of the new season now we are well into all the RIHS qualifiers, so please let me know how you are all doing.

As my daughter and I are only in our second season showing the weather at this years winter champs came as a big shock compared to the balmy temperatures at last years! I am sure that I won’t be the only one to congratulate the show committee on their organisation and flexibility in such challenging conditions. My washing machine is only just getting over the shock! 

For those not familiar with me, we are running 2 ponies this season, Brimstone the Prospector (Taffy) ridden by Katy Payne and Tetcott Paper Boy (Paddy),  ridden by my daughter, Aimee White.

After a hugely successful build up with a run of wins and one 2nd approaching the Winter Champs, Katy and Taffy continued their fantastic form at Arena UK winning the Novice 138 M&M WHP and being 2nd in the Restricted Open 138 M&M WHP. Aimee and Paddy  had a great start to the season at Area 8 with a 2nd in the Novice 133 WHP, 1st & Ch in the Open 133 WHP before going Reserve Supreme. It was then off to Hartpury for Area 9b the week after where they won the 133cm RIHS WHP, were Reserve Ch and then went Reserve Supreme WHP at their first ever RI attempt! Thanks to Louise G who was standing next to me when both major wins were announced and for putting up with my hugging and whooping. I will be looking out for you at future shows as you seem to be my lucky talisman!! Talking of whom, thanks to my first contributor…..

 aunt News - Harry has reduced himself to one pony (very sensible and easier on the pocket too) and that is Mayflower Magic (alias Jerry). For those of you that have bought ponies from us in the past, you will know that Harry nicknames them all when they arrive from Ireland. Jerry was written on the front of this passport when he arrived and he came with another grey connie, now nicknamed Tom (of course!) and a dun pony, similar to Dougal. His name ……..Zebedee. Anyway, back to Harry and Jerry. They campaigned in the Arena Eventer trials at Weston Lawns and BSJA competitions, before embarking on the workers. Having got the necessary tickets, we travelled to Area 9b at Hartpury, where they jumped 2 lovely clears in both the plaited and unplaited RI qualifiers, finishing 2nd in the plaited version – a great start to the season over a fantastic course – thank you to the coursebuilder there.

Arena UK beckoned and we arrived, armed with as much ski wear as we could – given the terrible weather forecast. As soon as “camp” was set up, we decided that mulled wine might be appropriate – and that was the order of the week really, as the bar had not heard of Whiskey Mac’s. On the first morning, Mum arrived at the stable to find (shock, horror) the door open, and the pony missing!!! We are eternally grateful to the security staff, not to mention Mr Hilton, who was rudely awoken at about 3am for their efforts to catch the truant pony. Jerry enjoyed his sightseeing trip and was secured more than an hour later – astonishingly still white. Somebody told me later that morning that it was a good omen and that their pony had won after escaping at another show – I was not quite so sure but just relieved that he was safe. However, both Jerry and Harry had a fabulous week – starting with 3rd in the RI qualifier and going on to be 2nd in the Novice M&M WHP final and winning the Novice 143cm final. They jumped clear in 2 other classes and just had one pole down in the HOYS qualifier. Most definitely our most consistent showing at any of the Championship shows. 

We eventually left, cold and muddy and returned to a most welcome Easter roast lamb (beautifully cooked by Alan – I know, we are very spoiled!!) Harry could only talk about how much he was looking forward to the Summer Champs and  camping with all his friends! It was great to see some of Jerry’s “old” friends  - Tom, Derek, Popcorn and Hughie at Grantham too – all grey!! We wish them the best of luck for the season. Xxx

Katy Payne is also running a pony of her own in the 153cm WHP by the name of More Park Flash (Gordon to his friends) ably ridden by Doug Wighton. They have  been posting some consistent results and were 1st and Ch Novice 153cm WHP at Area 8, 4th RIHS 153cm WHP at Area 9b and 4th in the HOYS 153cm WHP at the Winter Champs. Doug seemed to have a good time at Arena UK. We are not sure where he found his wellies in the end, but he did admit to walking through the lorry park in the dark in just his socks!!

By the time of the next review we will have held our Spring Festival at Addington on 3rd and 4th May and schedules for this show can be found on the BSPS area 7 website. Please let me know how you get on and I hope to see as many of you as possible there.

Clair Dicker
 

January News

I hope you had a good Christmas and enjoyed the winter break. I gather that many of you have been hunting during the holiday   ---- some enjoying it more than others. I caught up with a bit of news at our training day on January 6th at Quainton Stud with Mandy Mc Glynn. Wendy, our training organiser, had arranged the eleven candidates into three groups and they all benefitted from Mandy’s knowledge and expertise.

I met a couple of new members who have joined our area. Alice Collard who hails from  Fringford  has a smart pony called Saldenella Mondeo who she will be contending Nursery Stakes and Novice WHP with. I had a good old chin-wag with Alice’s mum Helen while the training was on.

Amy Gould has also joined the BSPS and has two young ponies that she will be competing on this year. Oaklands Lustre, a seven year old Connie will keep Amy busy in the M & M’s and Follywood Dollymixture a four year old 143cms will be starting a career in the Novice classes this year.

Good luck to both Alice and Amy and I hope you enjoy your time in area 7 (and don’t forget to send me your news)

Back into the fold (as an adult now) is Louise Richardson with her homebred Connie -- Misbourne Gold Star. They are planning to compete in the Nov. M & M workers this year. Good luck to them too.

Following a beastly and prolonged virus which put him out for most of the summer season, Brimstone the Prospector (Taffy) ridden by Katy Payne made a splendid comeback at the Heritage championships with some excellent placings. 3rd in the Gold Cup (winning the worker section) 3rd in the Desert Orchid and the Open WHP. Katy has been hunting and indoor eventing at Addington on him recently and is thrilled that he is back to his winning ways.

I spotted little Lucy Burton at the training too. As keen as ever on Twylands Picture (Picky) and mum Jane informs me that Lucy is still enjoying her hunting as much as ever.

Rosie Skier and her new pony Giselle had a good school up at Quainton and they are looking forward to doing some Novice 153cm WHP’s this summer. Unfortunately they will miss our Valentines show and area 15a at Patchetts during half term as she is off ski-ing in Austria with her sister Suzy at that time (alright for some eh?)  A big thankyou to Wendy for organising the training.

Don’t forget the Area 7 Valentines Show on 16th February at Addington E.C.
 

On a sad and sombre note I write to express sympathy and condolences to the Stewart family for the tragic loss of their lovely Rosie. Rosie was a great asset to our area, always willing to help and she set an excellent example to other young members. Rosie is so sadly missed.

 I havn’t had a lot to relay to you lately. I’m sure that a few of you have probably moved on to some bigger ponies by now ------ it would be interesting to know what you are working on for next season or even for the winter novices. Drop me a line,  e.mail at above address or give me a call --- I would love to hear from you.

 With regard to ourselves, Rozanna  (Skier)has two young mares that are on the shelf so to speak because her GCSE’s are rather demanding a lot of her time and our manege hasn’t been laid yet so our horsey world is a bit grim at present.   Maybe next year will be better.

Harry Gaunt news - Sorry that I have not been sending regular news in.  We had a dis-jointed season really – Harry broke his hand (playing Bull Dog at school  !!) as so we were forced to miss several big shows, including The Royal and Royal International, which was a real bore.  Anyway, we got going during the School Holidays.  With Oompi (Springhill Cream Bun) Harry went to Ponies UK and the Champs.  Without winning any red rosettes, they went well and got valuable experience for next year under their belts.  More recently they did their first BE Event at Little Downham, which was immense fun. Harry did a good dressage (as he hates it so much !) clear show jumping and just had 0.4 time fault cross country – which was a good achievement since he had never been timed before.  They finished 7th which was fantastic.  We will do more of them next year but Harry is adamant that he will not miss the bigger shows. He is now having a well earned rest but not before winning the 143 Novice WHP at Area 9a, and going Champion too!  Dougal (Rossdale Sandpiper) has now moved on to his new owner – very good luck with him Jemima!  Jerry (Mayflower Magic) suffered a freak accident in his stable in March and missed the whole summer but he is definitely back with a vengeance now.  His first outing was a BSJA Show at Patchetts, where they jumped a double clear and then went to Area 17, where jumped well in the M&M classes and got their winter Novice ticket.  At 9a, he won the mixed height Novice and plaited up to be 3rd in the Mixed Height Restricted.  We also went to the inaugural BSPS M&M Championship Show at Arena UK.  This was a fabulous show with a great atmosphere – even if we did all have hot water bottles the first night!  Jerry jumped fantastically on both days over some brilliant courses (including the bridge that claimed Harry at HOYS!)  They did seem to pick up a pink rosette in every class though – to match Harry’s tie.  I am told that I need to get him a red tie now!

 Anyway, the colour of rosettes paled into total insignificance when we heard the tragic news about Rosie Stewart.   I remember our first BSPS Summer Champs with Harry when Rosie was part of our “camp”.  She was so supportive and thrilled for Harry when he won the first class that he had ever gone in at the Champs and rode Harry’s pony, Penucha Boysie brilliantly in the Gold Cup that year.  Both Rosie and her mother have been fantastic helpers at Area 7 shows too.  I know that she kept very much in touch with Edward Blount and “Blondie” (Godsfield Fandango) and was always thrilled to find out how well they were doing and sent many good luck text messages to them. I know too, how excited she was at being selected to represent GB in Switzerland this year. It is so very, very sad and puts life very much into perspective. 

I hope you are all having a good time and winning lots of prizes. I could do with a lot more news from you all. The same old faithfuls are great at getting their news to me but some of you area seveners havn’t ever sent me any news ---- naughty young peeps !!! 

Sam Tanner ( joint organiser for our young judges) returned home from the Fitzwilliam Show slightly the “worse for wear” after having to judge nineteen classes which took up most of the day. Fortunately for Sam, the classes were not too big as it clashed with Royal Windsor and another show in Suffolk where  Katy Payne (our second joint organiser for young judges)  was judging.

Windsor entries were quite slim too, compared to last year. Such a pity when shows clash.

Sam is encouraging her young judges to get some first hand experience with their judging by inviting them to have a try out  locally  at Tring & District Horse Shows (under her supervision of course.) Sophie Newman was her first candidate at Tring’s April show and Sophie did a fine job. The next Young Judges training should be on the website very soon.

SS

Results -

    BEN SMITH and ROUGE NOIR

    Large SRT

Area 17                3rd RIHS

                            1st (Ass. Riding Horse)

Caranjoy              1st and Champion

Blantyre Park       2nd and Reserve Champion

Area 7                   1st (Qualified RIHS) and Reserve Champion

Area 8                   3rd RIHS   

News from Prune Farm

Harry had a relaxing but successful Winter Champs.  He was 4th in the very strong RI Nursery, and thrilled to bits to win the Restricted Nursery on Rossdale Sandpiper.  He was even more excited to be Mini Restricted WHP Champion later that night and to have to do an individual show in the Winter Supreme.  Dougal behaved impeccably throughout – his manners really are second to none.  He didn’t need extra working in, ears blocking or any sort of “calmer”  just be himself. We were all very excited that the combination had a lovely photo in the Horse and Hound.   Margot (Greenfields Bits and Pieces) and Harry have been out and about, gaining both in experience together, and Harry in confidence with her.  They have jumped some lovely clears in Novice classes and will not probably do some smaller Opens together – all the time trying to stay out of these frantic collecting rings.

Fritwell Show was a good day.  Tremendous thanks to our generous sponsors and efficient stewards and volunteers – without whom there would be no show.The weather was kind to us and the course-builder made a tough course that caused a lot of tongue wagging !!  Let’s just say that control of the steering “wheel” was paramount.  Although we had terrific entries in the workers, some of the flat classes were disappointing.  I think that the next couple of years will be a testing time for these shows and the organizers have some thinking to do in order to try and attract more entries.  We kept our entry fees down as much as possible – only £6 extra to enter RI classes on the day – some shows are charging phenomenal fees for late entries.  We are very grateful to Mr and Mrs Loggin for allowing us to hold the show on such a fantastic field.  We promise to make all the rings bigger next year.

LG 

Hi Sally

Jane here, just thought I would drop you a line to say that Lucy's new pony for this season has now arrived, her name is Twylands Picture (pixie for short).  We are going to start the season with the Lead Rein class and then hopefully work up to doing some Frist Ridden classes with her. 

We are hoping to come to Fritwell with her this weekend, but we have only had her for a week so things may be a little raw still.

Tiny (ever faithful is going as always very fast) and will probably come for a laugh and do some M & M First Riddens.  She is quite enjoying the fact that now Pixie has arrived she is getting to take life a little slower and look after her new greatest fan Annabel who is now 22 months and as keen as mustard.

Lucy is continiuing to get the hang of jumping on Tiny and will continue to do pony club stuff with her.

I would also like to  say many thanks for the lovely training day at Quainton, Lucy thoroughly enjoyed herself.

Look forward to seeing you all on Sunday

Jane

Tuffy News

dear sally, a little bit of news. we only went to the winter champs on the sun, left home at 8am in the ring at 10.30am nice ! tuffy and sukhothai results are hoys isht q 1st and champ ( still a bit gob smacked! ) and 3rd in the hoys 15hh shp . Id already decided that if we didnt q anything for hoys we,d go on holiday that week , still rather go to hoys ! . Good luck at our show everyone

jo and tuffy  

Pearson News

Well done to Hannah with her new pony Marlpoint Made To Measure who were 1st in NSHP & Open Rest Show Hunter at area 9A .  They also came 9th at the winter champs, not bad as (Harry 4) was only broken at Christmas and it was only his 3rd show. He behaved himself impeccably in the evening performance.  Hannah was also 6th in the Open RIHS class with Becky Watt's Tremymore Ap Dylan.

Alana also had a good day with her 143 Just Luki VI they managed 6th out of a very strong class in the Open SHP.  He is also now going to go out and do some workers which Alana is looking forward to.  

Alana would also like to say thank you to all those involved in the organising of the training day at Quainton Stud she very much enjoyed herself and can't wait for the next one. 

Julie Pearson

Atherden News

Hi Sally 

Just to give you a quick update about the boys:

NPS Area 13 8/4/06 

Frazer/Tsunami  

3rd NPS Junior Ridden

2nd P(UK) Shearwater ex 138

Dain finally got to show Katie, his Welsh Section D, after 8 months off and they had a great day:-

2nd and Reserve NPS Junior Ridden

1st and Reserve P(UK) Shearwater ex 138

3rd Top Spec RIHS

BSPS Winter Champs   14/04

Dain/Castlehill Flash (Hairy)

1st and Champion BSPS Heritage Winter Restricted Ridden

We are all really chuffed

Andy

Rosie Stewart
It is with great shock and immense sadness that I report that one of our young members, Rosie Stewart (17), was tragically killed in a car accident on her way to school last Friday, November 2nd.  Rosie rode some wonderful working hunter ponies to great success - most recently on Godsfield Fandango.  She went on to be selected to represent Great Britain at the Junior European Three Day Event Championships in Switzerland earlier this year.  She and her Mother, Marion, were very active members of Area 7, both as competitors and stewards.

Rosie's brother Ben has set up a tribute page on Facebook (follow the link http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=5619079434)

FUNERAL/MEMORIAL SERVICE:
The service is arranged to take place on Wednesday 14th November at 2pm at Culworth Church, Culworth, Banbury, Oxon

Rosie's family have asked all to wear black or dark clothing and PLEASE wear a rose for Rosie.

If any of you would like to put something in writing to her Mother and Father, Marion and James, and her brother Ben, their address is:
Culworth Grounds Lodge
Thorpe Mandeville
Banbury
Oxon
OX17 2HW

The "Ribbon for Rosie" campaign is being started at the BE Event Ball, to raise money for a fund to be distributed to Rosie's family for a charity or campaign of their choice.  This will be continued at our AGM and Points Awards Lunch on November 18th

It is with great shock and immense sadness that I report that one of our young members, Rosie Stewart (17), was tragically killed in a car accident on her way to school last Friday, November 3rd.  Rosie rode some wonderful working hunter ponies to great success - most recently with Godsfield Fandango - pony she bought on herself from a 4 year old to compete at the Royal International.  She went on, with another horse, to be selected to represent Great Britain at the Junior European Three Day Event Championships in Switzerland earlier this year.  She and her Mother, Marion, were very active members of Area 7, both as competitors and stewards. Rosie will be greatly missed by the many people that knew her

Rosie's brother Ben has set up a tribute page on Facebook (follow the link http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=5619079434)

FUNERAL/MEMORIAL SERVICE:
The service is arranged to take place on Wednesday 14th November at 2pm at Culworth Church, Culworth, Banbury, Oxon

Rosie's family have asked all to wear black or dark clothing and PLEASE wear a rose for Rosie.

If any of you would like to put something in writing to her Mother and Father, Marion and James, and her brother Ben, their address is:
Culworth Grounds Lodge
Thorpe Mandeville
Banbury
Oxon
OX17 2HW

The "Ribbon for Rosie" campaign is being started at the BE Event Ball, to raise money for a fund to be distributed to Rosie's family for a charity or campaign of their choice.  This will be continued at our AGM and Points Awards Lunch on November 18th

August News
At last I have received some news --- I thought I’d been made redundant as I had heard nothing from anyone in the last two months. As per usual, after a bit of begging and pleading and just in the nick of time, a few old faithfuls have at last given me something to relay. So here goes.

THE GEE FAMILY have a new arrival, one beautiful chestnut mare – Willoway Goldilocks who was found in the New Forest by Rachel Turner as a youngster.  Our Princess is just that, and already Ellamanda has had such fun with her and success, riddens and workers.  Her other 133 is little Greenfields Willow who has come back from serious illness to jump superbly in his one and only class at the champs to be 2nd.  Hunting was to be his winter past time, but as I write the ghastly news of a recurrence of foot and mouth has been confirmed…  Then there is Bambi (palomino Welsh man) who has been jumping his socks off this summer for Hermione.  She has a second pony too now, with the infamous skewbald Finbar returning to the fold after a successful two years with Francesca Kevill…  My eldest Tabi was also seen in the saddle on occasions this summer, on my own (so I remind her!) skewbald, fifteen hander Cappuccino.  When she was away celebrating her success in A level results, our new groom Tami took the ride with great success. A true family horse…  On the look out for a hunter cross worker for their Father, we shall soon have a very full yard . With two m and ms we are looking forward to the new heritage dressage series and the Heritage Show during half term.  What a good idea it is!

News from Watherstons -  Once exams, school trips, Duke of Edinburgh Gold expedition and driving tests were done, we managed to get to some shows! This is Fi's last season with Mary (Carnsdale Hotshot) so was delighted when she won the 143 whp and qualified for HOYS at the rearranged Staffs Country Festival - the course was really interesting, but Mary was a bit distracted by the cross-country jumps surrounding the conformation area!! At the champs, she was 8th Performance and 7th Champion of Champions. Fi hadn't jumped many rounds on Leah (Straith Liath 15h whp) before the champs, but was thrilled with the way she went there - she jumped a lovely round in the restricted just rolling a pole, to finish 9th, and went even better in the Premier League, to finish 2nd, level on points with the winner - Fi was rather embarrassed to have to go in for the prize giving on foot, having just arrived back from another ring on Mary, sadly she refused to canter round with her rosette!  Rosie (Waterford Rose - intermediate worker) has been doing well in BN and Discovery and completed her first BE intro event with a good dressage and a double clear - I suppose we will eventually manage to get her to a BSPS show!

Tanner News - Not much happening on the Tanner front other than: Had a great time at the Champs just out of placings in 2 classes but Brinmark Royal Windsor (Barney)did fab clears, we came 9th in the Premier SHP mum says I would have been placed higher if I hadn't left the arena at the quickest exit possible, who wants to do dressage anyway! Harry T

 Young Judges tried really hard and put their best foot forward but were out of the placings. They looked so good that I have taken photos and a video that will be on our web site soon. Well done to Sophie Bettison, Susie and team captain Rosie Skier, congrats to Kayleigh Hawes our individual player for a sterling effort. Anyone wishing to train for next year contact me asap, we need keen peeps to keep the next generation of Young Judges moving forward. Sam Tanner. samtanner42@hotmail.com

 Frankie Judge News - Skye's The Limit, who is now sadly for sale due to me (frankie) going travelling.  Skye and Frankie have had a fun couple of months together qualifying for C&T WHP and SHP first try, BSPS novice SHP, open ISHT, PUK novice SHP, open SHP, Newark cup SHP and Ardeene ISHT. As well as the showing side, skye qualified for the C&T 2'9 sj champs first and only try!!...Was a great surprise to us too!  PUK summer champs: Skye was very well behaved and a few results include clear rounds in all the zenith classes, a 10th in the 15hh Novice SHP that had about 25 entries, 8th in the Showmans class, and a 2nd in the competition SHP. (Pics attached). Amateur Showing Champs: 3rd Open mixed ht. WHP, 1st SHP, 1st Intermediate whp, 1st Hunter pony, Champion of the SHP/WHP ring in the eve. performance. Will be very sad when Skye goes, but as long as i find her the best home possible ill be happy!
 
July News
Hope you are all well and enjoying your showing. I have a huge apology to make for last months news being non existent and especially to Alison Geogakis because her e.mail went into my spam folder and for some reason (probably me being interlectually challenged) I didn’t notice it until it was too late to send to HQ. I’m feeling like the biggest hypocrite because, in the past, I’ve always moaned on about peeps who don’t check in their spam e.mails and then I go and do the very same thing.  However, I have some jolly good bits of news this month so maybe it’ll make up for my blunders.

A few dates for your diaries.
Annual General Meeting  
Members Lunch and Points Awards will be held on  18th November at The Hopcroft Holt, Enstone, Oxon.

Next years shows for 2008
Area 7      Valentines Show      16th February at Addington Manor Equestrian Center
Area 7      Spring Festival      3rd & 4th May again at Addington Manor on their fantastic all weather surfaces

 Our two day show at Addington May 5th & 6th went very well with v.few hiccups and excellent feedback from many competitors. Addington is a wonderful venue and we are so fortunate that it is in our area --- we can certainly make good use of it.

 Georgakis News  Now we have managed to get going after what seemed like a very wet winter we have a bit of news for you. Both our ponies for this season returned to Julie Templeton’s yard a couple of months ago following a winter holiday in Middleton Cheney! Our new pony Parkhill First Edition has made a great start to the season by winning the RIHS qualifier at the winter champs and 128 cm SP class at the North of England. Our other pony Yealand Angelina who we also had last year has also started the season well with a 2nd at Area 4A followed by a 1st and Championship along with her RIHS ticket at Area 1A. Our next stop is Area 7 so hopefully we will see you there.

Fiona W. News - Hi Sally - we have finally been to a handful of shows and so have some news for you - (these AS levels, driving tests, school trips, work experience, etc, do take great chunks out of the show season!!) Mary (Carnsdale Hotshot) is our main concern this year, as it is Fi's last season in 14h whp - she was 6th RI qualifier at Mid Shires, (her first show since the summer champs!) 2nd and Qualified RI at Area 5, jumped a storming round over our fabulous course at Area 7, and won the RI qualifier at Baston and was Champion for the second year running (also over a really interesting course - much more representative of what everyone will face at Hickstead)  We have bought Leah (Straith Liath) a 15h worker, from Fiona Hirst and will spend the season doing a few shows, and some showjumping, to cement the partnership - Fi already loves her and says it is just like jumping Freddie (Parkfield Freddie our former 13h worker) - very high praise indeed.  The third of our trio of mares, Rosie (Waterford Rose) our intermediate, has been mainly BSJA showjumping - I think she regards the fabulous arenas at Addington as her second home.

Reynolds News - Chrystia is off to a good start with her new ride Woodvale Lucky Charm (Foxy) , recently purchased from the Barbour household who had tremendous successes with him when ridden by Sienna.   Chrystia and Foxy seem to have hit it off straight away with a win in the 133 Open WHP & Res. Champ and a 2nd in the Nursery Stakes at Area 6. Pure Chance is another recent member of the Reynold’s string who is showing great promise in the Novice  WHP classes coming 2nd in a very strong Novice Nursery class at Area 6.  And last but not least, the lovely Noo Noo (Nuccio’s Jewel) had a commendable 4th in the RI 122 Show Pony class, also at Area 6. Well done Chrystia keep up the good work.  Must give a mention about the youngest Reynolds family member Chyme.  Poppet and Chyme came 3rd in the Lead Rein class at Tring & District Show. Well done Chyme hope to see you out again soon.

Barbour News  Sienna and Rollswood Nuryev qualified nice and early in the season for the Royal Int. 138 Show Pony at Area 17 Keysoe in March. They have since followed this up by qualifying in the RI  Pretty Polly show pony and going champion PP at Area 6.  Sienna is also having a good season on the versatile Rhoson Loire (Leo) in contending the 138 M&M WHP (a v. strong section) by coming 6th at Royal Windsor in the RI qualifier. They also went well at Area 6 after plaiting up Leo and taking 4th in the Open WHP.  The latest addition to the string is Inspector Morse, a piebald 143cms, mainly for PC eventing and WHP’s (sounds as though he’s got a super “pop”) So far he has qualified for the Burghley Event Pony, Won a PC Hunter Trial and been 2nd & Res. Champ at Kingsheath in the Open 143 WHP.  Younger brother Stuart is still happy to go to Pony Club (mostly for social reasons) but hasn’t quite got the bug for showing as his older sisters have.

Bettison News - Katie Bettison with Aztec Ice (Sid) made up for rolling a pole at Area 7 by winning the Novice 143cms WHP at Area 8 the next day. They have had a lot of success in PC Dressage lately, winning a class at the Area PC Dressage last weekend.  Unfortunately (and I blame Carl, her dad, for being so tall) she is outgrowing Sid at a fast rate and is busy looking for a new and trusty steed to take his place. Watch this space for news of the new arrival. So the very versatile Sid is looking for a new competitive jockey who can enjoy a multitude of activities on a willing pony. 

Gee News Update - News from this quarter has been thin on the ground this season, just through lack of time to sit down and e mail!  Both Ellamanda and Hermione are having a good time on Will (Greenfields Willow) and Bambi (Blackhill Trapeze) respectively.  Will has qualified Burghley Event Pony Semi finals and Colne (in the other camp) and BSPS Challenge, with her main aim in the near future being the RIHS 133 WHP, qualifying at Newbury Spring Show.  At 17 years young, Willow is in great heart, still ruling the roost as ever!  Bambi is also in fine form, raring to go.  With Hermione now with marginally longer legs, the pair are jumping their socks off!  Although not getting the ticket for the RIHS M and M WHP, they have had huge fun on the way.  Cradles have been successful, in the few they have done, winning and being reserve champion at Grantham Spring.  Hermione is to take part in the Side Saddle Display that her Auntie Ginny (Oakley) comperes at The Royal again this year, so if you are at a loose end on the afternoon of the Workers (Sunday) do come and watch, circa 4.30.  Fun and informative for adults and children alike – and they jump too, Hermione and Bambi included! Returning to the saddle after over two years of abstinence, big sister Tabi has seconded my ‘new’ 148 coloured gelding, Turbo (alias Cappuccino).  He is just terrific, such a nice person…  After riding him just a couple of times, off they went to our Area 7 show at Addington, where they finished well up in the pecking order in their first RIHS, achieving 18 marks in their jumping round, despite having a pole.  What a well built and most interesting course it was…  Really sorted the wood from the trees, so important with the Royal International qualifiers…  Their next outing, was at the Gate Inn where they were just pipped at the post in their second RI 153, but came away delighted with the Desert Orchid qualification.  How fab it is to see my eldest daughter back in the saddle and looking so happy!   Do just need to mention Bay who is busy playing polo at school but also enjoys riding out Turbo when at home.  Indeed so does Ellamanda, who qualified him for the Coloured at Hickstead at the BSPA championship show.  Incase that has not given her enough to do, she has been given the rides on two of Maria Dent’s lovely show ponies.  A big thank you.  Not only has Ellamanda thoroughly enjoyed so doing, but it has been a terrific riding experience.  With Hermione keen to follow in her two sister’s footsteps, Will must revert to Nurserys so we are looking avidly for a novice 143 for Ellamanda to come on to.  Any ideas will be most welcome!

April News

News from Stephanie Blacker
May and I have had a little time off over the last three weeks. I have been promoting a film I'm in at the moment called, "I Want Candy", at the cinemas from March 23rd.
Now after that shameful plug, I do have some BSPS news. We  made a trip to Solihull on Saturday 17th March to do our first RI qualifier in Intermediate Showhunters. We were thrilled when May won and qualified, it makes the 2nd
year running that she has qualified on her first attempt. A big thanks to Katy who produces May, she works so hard and does such an amazing job. We were also 4th in the  workers that day and are looking forward to competing
in both the INT workers and Showhunters at the Winter champs in April.

Tuffy Stockley News
Hope you have all wintered well. Tuffy and Taz [ Sukhothai ] went to their 1st show on sat , 1st RIHS SHP &  qualified , 2nd and res champ 15h shp and 3rd sht. Good luck for 2007 everyone, it will soon be HOYS again !!!  Tuffy x

 Team Payne News
Got some exciting news for you, Team Payne have been out in force to all the shows and getting some great results.
Stephanie Blacker and May won the RI SHP at Sollihull two weeks ago, How nice to qualify 1st attempt!!!
Harry Eddery and Airborn Gunner won RI 143cm WHP and also went reserve champion, 2nd attempt!!!!  At Malvern.
Katy Payne and Brimstone the Prospector won and went champion in the nov m&m whp and then went on to win and go champion again in the restricted m&m whp!!!We are all of to the BSPS winter champs next week so will let you know how we get on.  Katy

News from Harry Gaunt
We have had a quiet winter where showing is concerned, but have made up for that show jumping and eventing
Dougal (Rossdale Sandpiper) had a long holiday and came back fresh and looking a bit too well!!  I have such long school days and also Saturday school and matches so he went to his “other home” to visit his “Aunt” – Debbie Edmundson, who enrolled him quickly into the “fat club”.  He his now much fitter and looking fab. He has been eventing and hunter trialling. We went to the winter champs to do just 2 classes and had a great week.  We were 3rd in the RI 133whp and then, Dougal pulled out all the stops and won the HOYS 133 whp to qualify.  Brilliant and so exciting !!!
Stremda Major has moved on to a new home, with Kristina Hall-Jackson.  He is having a great time and has already qualified for RIHS M&M whp – well done to them both

Margo (Greenfields Bits and Pieces) is with Mary Edmundson, pursuing a second career in eventing.  She won a pre-novice at Poplar and was 4th in her first FEI Pony Trial at Lincoln.
Mum and Dad went off to Ireland a couple of times over the winter looking for a 143 Novice worker for me.  First came Mayflower Magic (Jerry) (a connie too!)  He is a fabulous jumper and has qualified for the Novice and Restricted plaited and M&M classes at the Winter Champs, and have more recently acquired Springhill Cream Bun (Oompa Loompa), a dun/palomino pony I have taken him to some Pony Club events and Schools XC and will start to compete in workers with him soon
 

February News
I’m afraid that I have practically ziltch news this month ---- we just havn’t got into the swing of things have we? The outstanding contribution to this must be the weather and our winter show at Addington Manor having to be cancelled due to the snow/ice of 8.2.07 not being cleared from the parking areas and walkways. Pretty bad anti-climax for all who were looking forward to a great schedule of classes on terrific surfaces.

However, we had a good training session in January with Joss Gray. It was chilly yet sunny and lots of peeps turned up.

Tanner News - Hi Sally training was AWESOME!! can we have him again? Harry Tanner

I really liked Joss even though he made me do stuff, i enjoyed it. I think mum liked him too!Patrick Tanner.
Harry and Brinmark Royal Windsor, won SHP at Area 8.  I fell of three times in the workers but I got a free picture so that was great. Patrick was placed in each class on Little Harry, all the ponies have had a winter holiday and we will think about going out again when the wind and rain has stopped!

Dates for 2007
WHP Training                14th January (A great warm up for Valentines Show
Please click here for further details

Valentine's Show               10th February
Schedules available soon but will be emailed to all those on the mailing list. 

Area 7 Summer Show        Friday and Saturday 5th/ 6th May
In a move to guarantee wonderful "going", which cannot be relied on, given the English weather, we are excited to announce that we have secured 2 days at the "new look" Addington, with it's tremendous new Outdoor Jumping Arena and its completely refurbished Indoor International Arena.

The Workers, including BSPS RIHS qualifiers and NPS/Top Spec M&M RIHS qualifies will be held on Saturday

The full range of Flat classes, including BSPS RIHS classes, will be held on Sunday.

There is plenty of stabling overnight at the Showground and it is hoped to arrange some form of "entertainment" on the Saturday night.

Last month I forgot to mention the brilliant news that Sienna Barbour with her exquisite Rollswood Nuryev won the SHP/SP section of the Search for a Star at the Horse of the Year Show and then topped it off by coming Reserve Champion.   Well done Sienna

Sophia Alder News - Sophia was 2nd in the M&M First Ridden and then took Reserve Champion at Malt House which was a qualifier for the NPS Spring Show Championship.  She was also Ist and Champion at The Home Counties Welsh Pony & Cob Society Show in the Colne M & M First Ridden qualifying for the Ponies UK Winter Champs

Watherston news:  We held a flatwork clinic in the October half-term, only a small group attended, but those that took part benefited from excellent instruction from Katy Payne, and many thanks to Philip Alder for allowing us to use his indoor school.  We are hoping to arrange WHP clinics after Christmas, subject to finding a suitable location - please watch for news on the training pages.  Our ponies are still having an easy life - doing some dressage and indoor eventing and cross-country.  Mary (Carnsdale Hotshot) loves these outings and has been placed first and second at the two indoor events that she has done so far - one judge said she had a great future as a dressage pony! (hope Mary remember this when she does her shows next year!)  These indoor events are great fun, and useful experience for  young ponies and horses - the warm-up areas also tend to be less manic than at some of the winter shows where they are so small and crowded that they ask an awful lot of a novice. 
 

News from Wendy & Fi Watherston - I can't believe another season is almost over, at least it means we should have time to take the novices out at last!  Mary (Carnsdale Hot Shot) had a good summer, unfortunately just missing out on the HOYS ticket, jumping some lovely rounds and being placed 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th!  News from the summer champs: Gold Cup: dressage rather buzzy (12th)  she won the worker section, jumped in the evening performance for the first time over a really difficult course - finishing in 6th place overall.  She was back in the evening performance the next day in the ShowPay WHP championship having finished 2nd in her class, but on equal marks with the eventual Champion.  We now look forward to a winter of BSJA, and not having to plait!

Harry Gaunt News - Nearly forgot – the hols seem to have flown past so quickly, I’m now back to the biggest “in tray” the world has ever seen, and Harry went back to school this week.  School morning came and I realised his trousers were still at the cleaners !! hence a mad dash to a nearby 24hr supermarket for emergency supplies.  We had a wonderful break in the South of France but had to take avoiding action to miss the chaos in Heathrow and came back on Eurostar – one day to recharge the batteries and off to Suffolk for a quick refresher course, collect Dougal and head for Newark.  We arrived to find a query with our entry for the Lord Fred. – the one class we wanted to do – good on PUK, no arguments, “we are always right – even if it is our error”  Never mind, Harry and Dougal went on to win both Nurseries that they went in and we tried the Burghley Event Pony qualifier – a very quick learning of the “dressage test”.  Sympathetic judging meant that Harry and Dougal were 5th and qualified for the semi finals later that week – we were even more stunned (sorry, thrilled) when they finished 5th in that as well and so qualified for the finals at Burghley.  For good measure, Mary Edmundson also qualified Margot and Paris for the finals too!  Harry had tremendous fun and on the way home, asked if we could go to Peterborough a day early!!!

 Peterborough was the most thrilling show this year for us.  Although Harry and Dougal didn’t win any red rosettes, they had a wonderful jumping round in the Whitehall arena (considering Harry’s previous round in there had ended in a hospital trip and back xrays !) in the Performance Pony.  They also jumped a lovely clear in the Desert Orchid Nursery and finished 4th.  Mary and Margot won the 143cm Gold Cup, going in to the final round in the lead – always very tense.  Mary actually rode in all 4 height sections of the Gold Cup, won 2 of them, and was placed in the other 2 – surely a record and deserving of special praise.  Hankey Pankey though, finally grew into the man we knew he could be – he started the week quite green in that huge arena but improved with every round.  Mary was elated when he jumped one of very few clears in the Open 133whp and went on to win AND go Champion.  Little did she know it would get better – we wondered if the Desert Orchid might be an ask too much but he thought otherwise and jumped the most phenomenal round, one of only 2 clears and went on to win the class and become Desert Orchid Champion for 2006.  Wow – such a short time since April.  Looking at the huge array of trophies that we keep staring at, we have noticed that no pony appears to have done that double in the same year  - quite astonishing and a most brilliant accomplishment for Mary and her mother, Debbie as well as Paris.

The dust had hardly settled when we all set off for Burghley.  Fantastic weather and huge crowds together with the big occasion meant that Harry suffered from bad nerves.  He held it together though, remembered his test and jumped a clear round to finsh 11th.  Paris finished a good 3rd, and Margo an even better 4th – hers was a very “hot” class and we were thrilled for her – perhaps she will go eventing next year. 

Hannah Henn and her fabulous grey, 12 hand pon