News is very short on the ground this month (in other words non-existent!) so my report consists of those who I have seen at shows and how they have got on. Please let me know how you all do at our BSPS Spring Festival at Addington on 2nd/3rd May so I have much more to write about!

Our winter training schedule finished in April with another very successful training session with Julie Templeton. Thank you to Sam Tanner for the hard work put in over the past months. I am sure that there will be more on offer later in the year.

 The winter championships were again a success. The weather wasn’t as good as hoped but the working party at Arena UK were amazing, laying matting when the ground started to get sticky. We saw the same guys doing parking in the day and poo-picking during the evening performances – certainly long hours, and they always seemed happy! I personally preferred the layout of the stables and the parking this time round but I do think though that the ground still hasn’t recovered properly from last winter/summer champs and maybe thicker grass under foot would have coped with the conditions better? I would be interested to know your thoughts!

I didn’t see as many Area Seveners as I hoped at the Champs, but for those of you who went, I hope it was successful. I know that Ella, India and Bea Wheeler were very busy with some good results. Those I remember were Ella and Samavic Talisman, 1st Heritage Open Small breeds before going Reserve Champion, Bea and Samavic Talisman, 3rd Heritage Open Lead Rein. Ella was also 4th in the Novice 133cm SHP with Priestwood Burlington Bertie. Well done to you all and sorry for the results I forgot!

 Also at the winter champs a very well done to Louise Richardson and Misbourne Gold Star on their 2nd in the Heritage Restricted WHP exc 138cm. This followed on from winning the Restricted Open Heritage WHP exc 138cm and going Champion at BSPS Area 9A at Malvern.

 Aimee White and Tetcott Paper Boy also had a very successful first outing of the year on grass at BSPS Area 9A winning and getting the ticket for the RIHS 133cm WHP before going Champion. Well done!

 Good luck to the rest of you over the next month whatever you do. Please send me your May news before the 14th!
 

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 pony, PANDORA'S RAGAMUFFIN (RAGS!!) have had an amazing season, and we thought it time to send in some news to the Review.  Having hunted with the Grafton hounds all last season he went to the Winter Championships at Solihull where he won Cradle Stakes and was Mini Champion on the Saturday.  He then was allowed to do some Hunter trials and the Bicester Pony Club One Day Event where he finished 2nd in his section before being prepared for the Nursery Stakes at the Royal Show.  Having jumped an amazing clear round he finished 2nd which was a real thrill.  Next stop Grafton Hunt Pony Club Camp for a week before getting ready for B.S.P.S. Summer Championships at Peterborough.  After two placings in earlier classes he then won the Premier League Cradle Stakes on the Saturday - an amazing end to a great season!

 The Henn family were so thrilled that Isobel and Dave Scourfield who bred Rags were there to see him win his class.  They bought Rags from Isobel early 2003 after hearing he was looking for a new jockey.  He has been a pony of a lifetime and the whole family has learnt a lot from him.  He is having a well earned break before doing some more hunting!

Great excitement in the Reynolds camp at Ponies UK Champs! 3 children, 4 ponies and 3 helpers all week was exhausting but huge fun! Chrystia and Caebryn Marrie won the Lee Smith M&M WHP 138 section on Wednesday and we were over the moon! Next day we thought, well she might as well enter the HOYS qualifier as we are here, she hasn't done one yet so let's have a go. In she goes, wins it on 20/20 for jumping style and then goes Champion! Yippee! Then we have to stay for the Working Hunter Supreme on Saturday night and the little darling is Reserve Supreme. What excitement! HOYS here we come.

 Of course the whole thing cost us an arm and a leg not least because Will managed to lose my purse with all my credit cards and all my cash. Just when I started to regain my humour with him I lost two lots of 1st prize money! A very expensive week!

The Tanner boys, with help from Rosie Skier, qualified 4 ponies for the Chiltern and Thames Rider championships for a range of classes. Rosie did a fine job with the 4yr old Chiddock All or Nothing (Ollie) and qualified first time out for SP and SHP, but as all the classes would clash with the lovely Timberland II it was decided that there was always another year for him.

Harry's coloured Hollyland Florin (Freddie) qualified coloureds, SHP, SP, 1st ridden and has started jumping workers but felt the show would be a bit much.

Patrick qualified 1st time out on Bengad Restharrow (little Harry) for SHP, Veteran and 1st ridden. Little Harry has only had a few meetings with Patrick and only one outing, but they seem to have really clicked and Little Harry has such a sparkle in his eyes and swing to his step, not to mention a little buck here and there. 

Harry T, qualified Brinmark Royal Windsor (Barney) for loads of In hand and Ridden. After a foggy start Harry  did a super clear and good display, much to his surprise beat a strong line up to win the 13hh workers. He then went on and won the 13hh SHP.  Patrick went in on Little Harry to contend the Veteran over 21 and looked like he was in with a chance amongst nearly 20 ponies but the little devil felt a bit too good and bucked Patrick off in the go round!  Harry T contend the WHP championship against all the heights and WH and went champion!!! Harry was almost speechless but managed a "can I have a bacon sandwich now". What a star and what a great day we all had. Thanks again to Rosie for her help. 
 

July News

Trying to get a bit of news from you busy bunch has not been a breeze this month. The deadline being on the 14th August and coinciding with the mass exodus from homes to the P UK champs put me to the test. I’ve got a few results from those who went to RIHS but I know that many more of you competed there and I’d love to know how you all fared. My girls are helping with ponies up at Newark this year. Rosie trekked off to Long Crendon this morning to accompany the Reynolds tribe and I dropped Suzy off at The Gees in Northants to journey northwards to Ponies UK. I hope they don’t get up to too much mischief and that they pull their weight (and not the boys)

Must stop worrying now and take this opportunity of peace and quietness to getting things in order at home, without them lolling about the place as teenagers do. If they’re not lolling, they’re scrapping, playing loud music, wanting money and bossing me about.  Kids are great aren’t they?

Our old soldier “Bengad Restharrow” (Little Harry) made a comeback with Patrick Tanner as his partner at a local show a couple of weeks back. After a long time off through illness, lameness and me thinking it was going to be “curtains” for Harry, we gradually brought him back to health, into work and he just soaked up the attention. Patrick and Harry hit it off straight away and after a couple of rides and a school up from Sam and Rosie they entered a Chiltern & Thames First Ridden qualifier,  won it and then came 2nd in the Veterans and 2nd in the SHP. Since then he has had a far better outlook and gets quite cheeky about his new lease of life.

If any of you find yourselves in a similar position with an old favourite who has been a star in the past, don’t give up on them too soon. Although it took me four years to nurse him back to health from the dreaded laminitis, pulled ligaments and various other ailments, to see him now, with his ears pricked and keen to show off in the ring, well it just makes my day.

Another old “blast from the past” is Katy Payne’s Good Evans, who was an absolute whizz in the WHP classes in the 80’s & 90’s. Winning  the WHP Championship at the Royal International twice on the trot and other Champs too numerous to mention, he was one of the best. Although he’s had his fair share of age related setbacks, at 25 years old he is still a super old chap when he takes his novice riders round the cross country and show jumping courses at Pony Club Camp and local shows.

If you have an oldie but goodie that is still enjoying life, please let me know and I’ll give them a mention in the next review. 

Harry Gaunt News  Just off on our hols with the Sargents (Area 6) and thought I had better let you have our news before we go because we only have one night here when we get back before trundling off to Suffolk for a weekend chez Edmundson before Newark.

 Harry and Dougal  (Rossdale Sandpiper) are having a really fantastic season – you were always right, clever you, to keep the children within their class.  We went to The Royal, on the most baking of days – too hot for even the keenest, and far too hot for Harry !!  However, Debbie (Edmundson) did a fantastic job getting his attention on the course walk and he went on to win the Nursery, which was a huge thrill.  This was her first time “at the helm” as it were, and she was worried beforehand that “the light (Harry’s) was not quite switched on”  However, I think she was impressed that at the business end, it most definitely was.

Sports day, and then Speech day curtailed activities for the next 2 weekends and then we took a trip to Suffolk for a practise session at the very unique Framlingham Show, camped out at Rookwood and set off for Kent County, on another really hot day.  Harry’s face dropped a country mile when he found out that his great friend Tom Marling had gone in the other direction to NPS 17 at Aylesbury, but was persuaded to don his gear and get on Dougal for the Open 133 whp.  I did not tell him beforehand that it was a HOYS qualifier because he tends to get his trunks in a twist, but they jumped a great round and finished 2nd to another good mate, Edward Blount, and so qualified for HOYS, on their first attempt !!  Next outing was the Royal International Nursery, where they had an unlucky pole (that no-one else had) to finish on equal marks at the top of the “poles” to finish 5th – a tremendous effort.

 Mary Edmundson has done a fantastic job with Hankey Pankey.  He jumped his first 133whp track of any kind in April and has come on so much that they have taken on the toughest of tracks – Paris just letting the side down on occasions by having “novicey” poles.  They were 4th at the Royal and had just 2 down at the Royal International which we were thrilled with – Mary sets herself such incredibly high standards though, and she deserves every success that comes her way.  Having decided that the HOYS track at Kent was a step too far for Harry on Margot, Mary stepped in at the very last minute and rode just brilliantly, having never sat on the mare before, to finish second and get their HOYS ticket.  Only one job left now, and that is to persuade Debbie that the CCI at Weston Park can wait another year for Mary and Jess – it clashes with the HOYS workers !!

Barbour Family News. Sienna Barbour had a successful time at the NPS Champs with her youngster -Rhoson Loire (Leo) winning the Junior Side Saddle and coming 2nd in the Open M&M Side Saddle. She jumped a clear round (jumps were a bit weeny-lots of clears) in the Novice M&M WHP qualifier but unfortunately didn’t get placed and just rolled a pole in the Intermediate M&M WHP. Younger brother Stuart enjoyed his PC Camp but parted company with his pony a few times during the jumping bits. Apparently, the social side of camp was more appealing to Stuart than the riding. Sienna’s lovely palomino pony Rollswood Nuryev took the Supreme Ridden at the National Palomino Champs at Malvern in July after winning the 138cms and the Adult & Child alongside mum riding The Fanman. Deana (mum) had her fair share of the spoils too, clinching the Ridden Horse Class for stallions & geldings and also winning the Western Section.  Yee Haa & Doggone 

Tuffy Stockley News. Not got a lot of results - been lazy this season ! Sukhothai 3rd at the royal and 4th in id sport horse , 4th at the rihs. Itch was 4th at the northern,  3rd nps , and 1st and q hoys at mid herts . looking foward to the summer champs we are taking taz and itch good luck everyone. 

Hannah & Alana Pearson News. You may already know that the Pearsons are emigrating to Australia in eleven weeks time and will be putting their showing skills into action “down – under.” Consequently, Just Luki and Marlpoint Made to Measure are seeking new jockeys. The girls had a brilliant day at the Fillongly Show in Warks. when Hannah with Becky Watts’s Tremymore Ap Dylan won the 122cms SHP + Champ.,and then won the 133cms SHP with Marlpoint Made to Measure + Res. Champ. Alana polished the day off by winning the 143 cms section with Just Luki. AND they have all qualified for next years BSPS Champs. to boot.

Sophie Alder News.  Sophie’s M&M lead rein pony: Wilby Viscount has won 4 HOYS qualifiers to date - not bad for a Dartie eh? At the NPS Champs they won the Micro Demolition qualifier and were 2nd in the Home Produced.

Just off the lead rein with Sianlee Rustique, Sophie has had some good placings including 3rd in the Nov. M&M First Ridden and 4th in the Open at NPS Area 17. The 6year old Sec.A also went well for Sophie at the NPS Champs coming 6th in the Nov. M&M First Ridden and at Kingsheath they were 6th in a P UK Open M&M FR.  Keep up the good work Sophie

News from Evie-Rose Lovell. I have got a new 14hh SHP on loan called Aston Hightime Of Warleigh (Dave).  Will has a new sec B LR that does both SHP and SP LR ( Tilly)  Also,I have a 14hh WHP called Lady Reynard (Kiz)

Dave 06 Area15a  RIHS 2nd, PP   2nd.Area 7     RIHS 2nd   PP  2nd.Area 8     PP     1st + Champ.   Royal Windsor RIHS 1st.  3 Counties HOYS 4th. East of England HOYS 5th.  Lincoln HOYS 2nd.  Royal HOYS 4th.  BSPS 16 HOYS 2nd Area 6 1st + Champ.  North Hampshire 1st + Champ.  Chard  HOYS 1st + Champ.  RIHS PP 2nd

Tilly 06 Baston and District PP 1st + Champ. 3rd SHP. Ridgeway  3rd SP. 3rd SHP .   Blakesley  1st SP.   1st and res. SHP

 KIZ. Area 15a,  Nov     3rd.  Open   4th. PUK South      Open  5th, Hampshire      Res     1st + Champ.  3 counties Open   6th.  Area 6 Open    3rd.  Ridgeway  Open     2nd. Blakesly Open   1st + res. Champ.

June News

By the time you read this, those of you who have qualified, will have done your Royal International classes. I hope you had a great time and won a few prizes too. I’m champing at the bit and impatient to know how it all went for you, so get those e.mails over to me ASAP.  Whilst setting up the rings and course building for NPS 17 with Andy Atherden, he let slip, accidently on purpose that Dain and Castlehill Flash had qualified for Olympia. What a great achievement! Having already qualified for HOYS in the Ridden M&M and also qualified his Cathael Bay Girl in the M&M WHP the team Atherden deserve congrats a plenty. Well done boys

Barbour News. Sienna Barbour has qualified for the HOYS Search for a Star in the SP/SHP section at Arena UK Grantham on her lovely 138cms palomino show pony - Rollswood Nuryev. The combination also had a successful day at Fritwell coming 2nd in the Open Show Pony and the RI Pretty Polly mixed height SP. Woodvale Lucky Charm (Foxy)  had a good win in the 133cms Open WHP at Area 6 and topped it off by taking the Championship. Sienna and Foxy have been doing some Chiltern & Thames Rider Show Jumping  and have qualified for the Novice and Intermediate classes. In the C & T showing section they have qualified in the WHP and the Style & Performance. Young Stuart is off to Mini Camp and is getting quite excited at the prospect (showing is a bit of a bore for him.) 

Reynolds News.  Chrystia and Will continue to be madly busy doing not very much! Since I last sent you some info we went to the Area 7 show at Fritwell and had a lovely day with lots of placings and culminating in Caebryn Marrie(Mini) and Chrystia being Junior M&M WHP Champions. It really was a wonderful show and many thanks to all you organisers for doing such an incredibly professional job!  Mini was also 4th in the RIHS M&M WHP qualifier, middle section, after having jumped the trickiest course of their lives! We have done 4 qualifiers with two 3rds and two 4ths, so near and yet so far! But Chrystia is only 11yrs old and so probably has a bit longer in this class! We haven't done any HOYS qualifiers as I thought they started after the RIHS ones had finished and now we have missed loads of entries! How dippy is that?   The Tring shows have been a great success and may be unaffiliated but have had very high calibre entries none the less. The Chiltern and Thames series seems to have really taken off! My darling, Nuccio's Jewel (Noo-Noo) has won both Show pony classes and even appeared in the mag as Noo-Noo! What a stupid name! Mini won the Junior Open show jumping and now Chrystia is desparate to register her BSJA. Oh no!  Will has been going great guns on his angel (on speed) Poppet having lots of local placings in all sorts of classes. He is working up to Cradle Stakes at P(UK) Champs so don't blink or you'll miss him!   Doing all three champs this year as I don't think we're going on holiday anywhere. That's a nice swap for Mummy isn't it? Three weeks slaving over 3 children and 4 ponies in filthy conditions or a week in a smart hotel by the beach. Mmm must really get more organised next year in more ways than one!  Still looking to sell my beautiful Chiddock 3yr old, very well behaved easily handled by the children, open to offers as we really have too many four legged friends. Any interest? Got to go now and do some more child ferrying or pony polishing which I seem to spend most of my life doing now, what a waste of time all those Chartered Accountancy exams were!

Harry Tanner News.  Barney (Brinmark Royal Windsor) and I have been concentrating on our dipslays at local level, so far qualified Chiltern & Thames Part bred Arab, First Ridden and SHP each on first attempt, so threats from mum, I suppose have worked, banning me from game boy, play station and computer games, unlesss I try my best! Also won inhand champ and enough money to more than cover entries, THATS A FIRST but it went on a new PS2 so “ner” to mum!  Also got going with Hollyland Florin (freddie) as my fab coloured worker and thanks to Rosie Skier the next level. 14hh pony,Chiddock All or Nothing (Ollie) has been out and qualified C&T show pony at his first show. Mum has been bringing him on at home, although being past it and fracturing her cocxyc! I was a guinea pig on the young judges training which was fun, can I do it again? When's the next training? Harry

Results from CTV Connemara Show at Malthouse 25th June
Sammie Judge and The Bascote Poacher: 3rd dressage 1st NPS Performance pony 1st M&M WHP + Champion
 
Frankie Judge and Skye's The Limit: 2nd dressage with 70%. 2nd in the combined training

Tuffy Stockley News, Chidook over the Limit 1st and champ rutland q rihs with Sukhothai 1st and champ area 6 q rihs hp and 1st three counties 15hh shp hoys q . good luck everyone at rihs 

May News

Hi Chaps,  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.

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.

Jane Illsley wrote: 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 First 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 continuing 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

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 didn't qualify anything for hoys we'd go on holiday that week , still rather go to hoys ! . Good luck at our show everyone.

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. 

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

Hannah Henn and Pandora's Ragamuffin -  1st Cradle and Mini Champion

Dain Atherden and Castlehill Flash - 1st and Champion Heritage Restricted Ridden

Tuffy Stockley and Sukothai - 1st HOYS Intermediate SH and Champion

Fiona Watherston and Carnsdale Hotshot - 1st Combined Training Working Hunter Pony (143cm) and Combined Training Champion

Harry Gaunt and Rossdale Sandpiper - 1st Winter Restricted Nursery and Winter Mini Champion
 

April News

Hi Everyone I hope you all had a great time through the Easter holiday. The weather wasn’t too bad, unless you were in Kent in early April when it dropped 12cms of snow (actually that sounds quite good fun, doesn’t it?) So the Winter Champs will have been and gone by the time you read this review, but I hope I’ll get lots of lovely news of your successes for the next month’s review. Quite a few of our area seveners have done brilliantly already by qualifying for their RIHS classes ---- and yes, the Gaunt group are “on a roll.”

We had a very good training day at The Quainton Stud with Elaine Wilson. The feedback from our members is very encouraging and it makes the training days worthwhile. Many thanks to Katy Payne for organising on April 5th.  (See the training page)

Some Tanner News - Harry came a good 4th in a very strong Novice Nursery class at Area 16 on Barney --- his jumping is coming on really well.

Atherden news -  A good start to 2006 for Frazer and Dain at P(UK) Winter Champs.  Frazer riding Tsunami got 3rd in the Lee Smith Llanarth M&M Large Breeds Final and 5th in the Shearwater WHP ex 138.  Dain riding Hairy, got 2nd and Reserve in the P(UK) Dalkeith Junior Ridden, 2nd in the Kingsford Large Breeds ( very large class and of a high standard) and 1st and Champion in the Lee Smith Llanarth M&M Large Breeds Final.   P(UK) West Mids Stallion Show on Thursday 6th April - Frazer with Stirlingdene his 4 year old Highland Stallion came 1st in the Lee Smith Glyn Greenwood  Dain riding Hairy came a very good 4th in his HOYS ridden.   NPS Area 13 Saturday 8th Apri.  Frazer riding Tsunami  3rd NPS Junior Ridden  2nd P(UK) Shearwater WHP  Dain riding  Katie (Section D) on their 1st competition since August 2005  3rd in the RIHS workers, what a result, actually tied second only 1 point behind the winner  1st and Reserve P(UK) Shearwater WHP  2nd and Reserve NPS Junior Ridden

 Stephanie Blacker’s news - Mum and dad have now moved so unfortunately she is not breeding ponies anymore. Also our foundation mare Brants Moonlight Serenade (dam of Thamesbrook Sebastian)  is enjoying her retirement, in pony club at the grand old age of 24. Her last foal, Thamesbrook Sinatra, or Frankie as he is known to his
friends, is now living with Jo Thompston along with my Intermediate, May. We are hoping to break Frankie  at the end of next year and bring him on as a
novice 13 hander. As for May, my INT,  she was bought at the end of last year after placing  a wanted ad in Horse and Hound. We had  been looking for so long (4 years)
for a nice novice. When looking, we always took dad along because he is red hot on conformation (sculptors eye) and there were many rejects on the way.
Finally we found May, a 5 year old bay mare bred by Jill Wormall who had lightly shown her as a five year old. She is actually pure TB by Gildoran 
and out of Jill's  point to point mare.  As we no longer have a yard, May is kept at Jo Thompston's,  which has turned out to be real fun.  She won most of her  novice  and restricted INT Show hunters classes over the winter season and we were thrilled to qualify first time out for the RIHS  at South Western Counties. May is also enjoying learning how to jump, so we are hoping to get going with the workers soon ---  so maybe we will be ready by the Fritwell show.

Some news as promised, now my fingers have defrosted ! at Area 17 Tuffy (Stockley) won the rihs 15hh shp qualifier and went champ with Sukhothai which was great. not so good was that Ilost a gold bracelet with great sentimental value, im gutted! if anyone found it and they have the heart to return it my no is 01295 760730 thanks . good luck at the winter champs everyone     

Harry & Bron news  Harry and Bron have been doing a lot of cross country schooling recently, with Margot, Dougal and Hankey Pankey, in preparation for the outdoor shows.  This plan paid dividends at Area 9A, Hereford Marches.  The first “outdoor” course of the season and Harry, with Dougal  (Rossdale Sandpiper), won and qualified for the Royal International in the Nursery Stakes.  Well done Harry.  Concentration levels were up, and the result showed it.  They were also 2nd in the RI Nursery at Area 17 (Keysoe)  More cross country to follow before perhaps tackling some Open 133 whp classes.  Harry and Margot are gaining more and more experience together, - and both loving it -  but Harry seems to get a touch of stage fright in the collecting rings and so they will stick to pony club and show jumping for the moment until this has been conquered.  After all, Harry still has 6 years in the class !!  Thamesbrook Sebastian has been sold to Annabelle and Francesca Sargent.  Good luck in those RI qualifiers Annabelle.  We just could not persuade Bron to put on jodhpur boots for the M&M classes !!  She is set to make her debut in the Working Cob classes on Stan the Man.  He is loving his jumping and makes a fantastic “trainers hack” at the cross country sessions.  Hankey Pankey who was ridden by Mary Edmondson at Area 16 to claim his Open 133cms WHP  RIHS ticket. He also won the BSPS Open WHP at the same show.  Bron Evans and Stan the Man had a super win and went champion in the WH Cob class at Keysoe in early April. Well done Harry & Bron 

March News

The Reynolds duo ---- Chrystia and younger brother Will had a great time at the Quainton Stud training day with Rachel Turner. Poppet jumped everything really well for Will and a lot of confidence was gained for this up and coming Cradle Stakes partnership. Chrystia’s ponies, Sprite and Mini were model pupils too and went very sweetly. Will and Chrystia have had quite a few days hunting lately and they will be starting their show season in a couple of weeks time.

 Dear Sally,  I would like to say a big thank you to Wendy for the training day last Saturday at  Quainton with Rachel . Sophie really enjoyed it . Thank you very much . We look forward to the next one.  Dawn Newman

Harry Gaunt News:  Dougal has had a slight break, whilst Harry gets more practice in on Margot (Greenfield Bits and Pieces).  This seems to be paying off.  They jumped clear at Patchetts and Barleyfields, with top or joint top jumping marks on both occasions.  They stepped up in difficulty somewhat at the Indoor Eventer Trial at Addington and the pair really came together well.  They jumped a demanding course outdoors and it was a great sight !  - Although Harry and dressage are not a marriage made in heaven, when he heard that he had only missed out on £35 for 5th place by 1 mark, he thought he should maybe pay it a little more attention before the next occasion.  6th in that field, with the other competitors being adults, was a very satisfying result.  We are looking forward to the next few shows eagerly.  Mum feels that having taken things really slowly, they are ready to “come out in public”  Hankey Pankey continues to improve and may well contend some RI nursery qualifiers, although the Novice and then hopefully open 133 classes are probably more his scene.

News from Swindon Stables: Alex Donnachie riding Gevaudan was 3rd mixed height P(UK) Horselode M&M at Area 7and was first in the BSPS Heritage Novice WHP at Patchetts  Frazer riding Tsunami was 3rd in BSPS Heritage Open (Res) at Patchetts  Dain riding Hairy was 3rd in BSPS Heritage Open (Res) at Area 7 and 1st at Patchetts. All three took part in the recent Area 7 training day at Quainton.  Frazer has his "DREAM" pony at last. On Saturday I travelled to Dorset to pick up Stirlingdene. He is a 4 year old yellow dun Highland Stallion and I believe he and Frazer are going to have a fun time together.

Please click here to view a list of judges at this year's Hickstead show
 

February News

Well then, we’ve survived another Valentine’s show and had better weather than last year. Mind you I don’t think it could have been colder than last year, unless we’d held it in Siberia, but no, we were at Amazing Addington Manor. With the excellent arenas, surfaces, warm toilets and yummy café, everyone kept clean and dry (except for a few boys/tomboys who have yet to understand the phrase ---“don’t you get those joddies dirty”) and hopefully went home as happy bunnies. Well done to Andy & Sue, new on the committee, who organised the stewards so well. Andy reckons he lost a bit of weight with all the tearing about he did. If its any consolation AA, the ladies in the office thought you were brill.  Woooo.  Results are now available on "shows" page

 
Sammy Judge did well on The Bascote Poacher (Egg) I’ve never understood why his stable name was Egg but seeing it written down as above makes it all clear to me now. Get it ----- Poacher as in Egg poacher, not Game poacher. Its only taken me a year to work that one out. Anyway, this up and coming partnership had a commendable 2nd in the 138cms Res. H WHP and a 4th in the Nov. H WHP

Sienna Barbour had some good results with her young Leo (Rhoson Loire) coming 2nd in the Res. Heritage WHP and 4th in the Nov. HWHP.

He gets better and better every time I see him. Sienna also had the reliable Foxy (Woodvale Lucky Charm) in the Res. 133 WHP and took 3rd place & 4th place in the Open WHP.

Last year at Addington, Rosie Skier’s claim to fame was to land in a puddle following a series of  bucks from Timberland II (it was quite funny) Thankfully they went a lot better this year and were 1st Res.143 WHP, 2nd Open WHP and 2nd in the Style & Performance

Harry Gaunt had a good win on his Hankey Pankey in the Nov. 133 WHP. He also had a 4th in the Open 133 WHP on Dougal (Rossdale Sandpiper)
 

Chrystia Reynolds did very well in a strong P UK Open M&M WHP with Caebryn Marrie to come 4th in a mixed height class. She had a bit of a hiccup with her young  Sec. B in the M&M Nursery --- the words steering, lack of, and speed--- sprang to mind, but Chrystia soldiered on and completed the course, putting the episode “down to experience.” They did a good showy bit in the second phase.

Jo Gilbert and Royal Replica had a well deserved win in the Open Intermediate WH --- they jumped a lovely round and looked a picture. Jo is studying at De Montford for her degree in Fashion Design. Two days a week are spent working in a wedding shop and she also works in a nightclub one night a week. Combining a money earner and a bit of a social sounds good to me. If that isn’t enough, Jo also plays in the Royal British Legion Youth Band of Bodicote as a Drummer/Bugler. I feel tired just writing about it, but I think I know where she gets all that energy from, because her mum Sally was an absolute whizz when she helped me with the WHP course changes at Addington. Thanks again SG and to Wendy who whizzed about with me in the early morning.

Chairman Philip Alder writes:  Rosmarche Celyn, our novice section A has been put under the saddle since the end of December and shown three times. We had the following results. WPCS 2nd and res champ, BSPS Area 6 1st, BSPS Area 7 2nd.  We hope this is the pony to take Sophie off the lead for her first season.
 

Jo stockley,  sent Tuffy’s results from our show with her new pony sukhothai ( think thats how u spell it ! ) won the isht and res champ so that was a good start. A big well done to everyone involved in running the show thank you .I think we must be the only people not to have been showing for months everyone kept saying hello strangers to us ! we had better get cracking now . Good luck everyone jo and tuffy   

 Jane Illsley writes:  Just to say that Lucy is going great guns this year, she is hunting like a lunatic with Tiny (20 days to date), although brakes are a bit of a problem.

We had a lovely day at Addington, and many thanks to you Louise and the rest of the team. 

Lucy and Tiny did three classes of first ridden M & M.  Which was terrifying for me to watch, but they got on ok.  The first class was a bit of a learning curve and she got a bit lost in her show, the second went better but Tiny got a bit keen (looking for hounds I think) and in the third class they finished 5th out of eight ,so I was delighted, still got a lot of polishing to do, but they had a lovely day.  Also we have a new lead rein pony for the coming season which hopefully will arrive in a few weeks, depending on my leg a bit. Will let you have more details as I know them.

Susie Gee writes:  The Gee Family had a very good day with Bambi, alias Blackhill Trapeze, at our area Valentine Show at Addington on Saturday last.  It was run to perfection, a day enjoyed by all, whether human or equine, with the sun shining down upon a very busy day's activities.  Bambi and his jockey Hermione,  finished 4th in a good cradle class, circumnavigating an as usual well thought out course of Sally Skier's.  The pair went on to win the Novice Heritage WHP and in for a penny in for a pound, stayed until the bitter end to take second prize in the Open Heritage, going reserve champions in the restricted section.  They both slept well that night... Another pony from our yard, Hursted Jenny Wren, together with her capable jockey Molly Aaron, jumped a lovely round in the style and performance, but their moment of glory came when they finished second in the middle height section of the Novice Heritage WHP.  Naughty Finbar, another of the Gee's childrens' ponies, now with a new pilot Francesca Kevill, new also to BSPS classes, jumped a stylish round in the S and P, but his lordship lost his crown, behaving in a non too gentlemanly manner in the cradle...  Words are needed in his ear I fear!  With a more than capable mother on hand, I expect we shall see a reformed character before ere long...(that's Mrs Kevill, not me!)

Mother Gee has been seen on a horse in public, jumping fences in recent times.  A rare sighting...  Tabi's little horse Skip Over took me round an eventer trial at Addington, and much to my amazement, he looked after me so well, that we did a double clear.  Our dressage wasn't too bad, just marred by the nervousness of the rider who felt Kalms was the only thing to take that early in the morning, preferring the affects of a tiple or too.  My excuse for retelling this news is that  being over the tender age of 25, this is my attempt at giving Skippie some practice before we launch him on the intermediate circuit. 

That is all the news I’ve managed to glean for our show so far ---- if you havn’t had a mention, I’m sorry, but you must send an e.mail, write to me or phone your reports in to get a mention ----- I’d love to hear from you all.

Fritwell Show BSPS Area 7 is on April 30th  The poor old committee really do need masses of help for this huge occasion ----- so come on all you wonderful area seveners, please put the date in your diary and a bit of time aside to give us a hand --- if you are too busy on the day, maybe you might have time to help the day before or the day after the show. Big strong men with six packs are welcome too.

Contact our chief steward andyatherden@btinternet.com or tel.07970 145411

Our Young judges co-ordinator and resident trainer, Katy Payne, did not have a great start to the New Year.  Poor Katy had a nasty fall whilst schooling and broke her leg rather badly.  She had a rather lengthy operation on New Year's day and is now recovering in hospital.  I am sure you will all join us in wishing her a speedy recovery.  Marguerite, meanwhile has volunteered to become the "Jamie Oliver" of hospital food. 

Two area 7 members - we were asked to don  reflective gear again for  visibility flights for the Chief Air Commodore from the RAF.  Members shown are Richard Holt on Ginny Duncan's Townend Badger and Alison Hardy-Edwards on Waverhead Copper
 

The Gaunt "team"  finished the 2005 season in tremendous form...At Keysoe, Bron Evans won the 138cm Style and Performance on Hankey Pankey and went Reserve Champion.  Harry won the Open 133cm whp on Rossdale Sandpiper and went Reserve Champion.  Harry was then persuaded (against his better judgement - and then only because his good friend Tom Marling was in the same class) to do the Novice Mixed Height SHP.  Hankey Pankey (and Harry of course!) showed tremendously improved paces and behaviour (due to Bron's skill and patience) and took the class in style.  They went on to win the Open and Restricted classes and Show Hunter Pony Championship.  Keysoe had very generously put on a Supreme Championship, offering a hefty prize.  This drew quite a field and Bron and Harry were thrilled that Hankey Pankey (Paris to his mates) continued to throw his best toe forward and took the honours.

They are all going hunting and show jumping over the Christmas holidays and then having a short break before next year. 

Rossdale Sandpiper

Several new members have been elected onto the Committee and it will be great to have some "younger" ideas

Katy Payne and Sam Tanner are going to be responsible for the Young Judges training and teams.  It is several years since Area 7 had a team and they are going to make a concerted effort to buck that trend !  So come on all you young people.  This is a tremendous opportunity to learn things from the other angle!  Contact details and a new webpage will follow shortly
 

Andy and Susan Atherden have joined the Committee and Susan (supported of course by Andy !) has agreed to take on the hard task of Chief Steward.  Please help her out wherever possible

Last but definitely not least, Bron Evans is going to be responsible for the Premier League Teams. Again, we have not put forward teams for several years.  Bron will change all this I'm sure.  She will also be organising the "Get to know everyone" party at the Summer Champs - details will follow later.....
 

November News

Rightie  Ho chaps, peel your peepers, pin back your ears  and take note of a few dates.

AGM, Yummy Lunch and Points Awards is on 4th December at the Four Pillars Hotel in Witney, including an informative chat on Horse Physiotherapy from guest speaker Gillian Roll. Tombola and lots of chin-wagging with like minded friends. Try to get there if you can and don’t forget to send your points cards to Louise -- our secretary.

11th February is our Valentine’s Show at Addington EC and IF it gets as cold as last year ---- cuddling up may be permitted.

30th April   Fritwell (BSPS Area 7) Show with many RIHS Qualifiers

A Bit of Dressagey News

Little Hannah Pearson and Davdor Alyn had a brilliant result in the National Championships Final of the “Search for a Star” Fledglings Dressage at the Unicorn, Stow on the Wold (a 5* horsey place, I’m told) during half term. Borrowed from the O’Connor’s,  Davdor Alyn (Wildthing) and Hannah performed a lovely 78% test to clinch 2nd place. Well done Hannah.

Juliette ( his usual jockey) and Wild jumped a clear at HOYS in the M&M WHP but unfortunately didn’t get into the final line up. A few hiccups with the stridings in the doubles and some hyper moments later on in the showy bit rather “blew it” for them.

Juliette is now moving up to a new and very green Sec. C called Brynstone Bowman (Brynstone Flyaway X Synod Silk Bow) and I’m told by Vicky that there is lots of work to be done with the new partnership.

Donald & Judge News 

We are all members of BSPS Area 7 now (well mine is going through even as we speak!) so thought I would send you a quick update about our mob!  

Frankie and Ballymore Hollys Gem (Ballymore Luciano dam Holly) have had a good start to the winter showing having managed in two outings to qualify for -

Novice 15hh WHP

Restricted Open 15hh WHP

Open 15hh WHP

Novice Int WH

Novice 15hh SHP

Gem, as ever, is being a star and giving Frankie so much fun and they are looking forward to more shows, and some hunting over the winter. They have also proved to be a great pair for William to go Cross Country with!! 

Sammie and The Bascote Poacher (Champion Bob    Dam - can't remember)

Sammie and Egg having done mainly unaffiliated and pony club over the summer have now done two BSPS qualifiers and have done well, Sammie has qualified him for the Novice M&M workers and is now looking for the Restricted M&M. We are also hoping to get him measured at 143cm so he can do the plaited classes too. 

Egg is teaching Sam a lot and I don't think it will be long before they are looking at the open classes! 

Julia and Kilmiston Just William (SnowHawk dam - Tyan Tara Lea.  Again we have mostly done unaffiliated stuff this summer having been held up by an irritating virus early on in the year we had a slow start but he has done well winning lots of unaffiliated WHP classes and even managed to pinch a champion at one show! William has now done two affiliated shows this winter the first one - Towerlands was a disaster and I feel its best not to tell you as it was mostly my fault : ( However at the second show we frustratingly rolled the last fence so came 4th, one place out of qualifying! I was very pleased to have got that place with a pole mind you! I am looking forward to seeing how he does over the next few weeks

Dear Sally

Our wonderful 143cms WHP Greenfields Bits and Pieces is now with her new family.  Unfortunately for Franki she is out of the 143cms class at the end of this year and we had no choice but to move 'Margo' on.   Please would you send Alan, Louise and Harry Gaunt all our best wishes and hope that they have as much enjoyment with Margo as we did.  Franki and Margo had a true partnership and we hope that Harry and Margo have the same.  We miss her terribly but know that she has gone to a very good home.  Best of luck Harry, love from Franki and Karen Ramsey xx

Gaunt’s News

Hi Sally.  As promised, here we are.   Harry and Major jumped a fantastic round at HOYS and did a good show.  He finished 9th which was higher than our expectations at the start of the class, and we were
really proud of them both.  Major has now been leased to Francesca Sargent - Good luck Cessi - we hope you have a wonderful time with him.

Major's departure was made much easier because Harry knew that Margo (Greenfield Bits and Pieces) would now be living here in Edgcott - thank you Karen and Franki - very much - for letting us have her.  Margo is
having a very well earned break after HOYS and then she is going to do some show jumping and eventing before so that they get used to one another in "private"

We are also extremely lucky that Rachael Turner pointed us firmly in the direction of the very lovely Dougal (Rossdale Sandpiper). He came from Samantha Duffy just after HOYS and so far, Dougal and Harry have got
together well and are having a fantastic run:
Area 17: 1st Novice Nursery and Mini Champion
Area 5: 3rd Open Nursery, 2nd Restricted Nursery and 1st Novice 133whp and Reserve Champion
Barleyfields: 1st Open Nursery, 1st Restricted Nursery,  1st Open 133 whp and Reserve Champion


They will have a break now and do some affilliated show jumping before next showing season.  Dad has "allowed" Mum to have some proper help and we are very lucky that Bronwen Evans has joined us - I am sure she won't
take long to get to grips with Harry's sometimes rather individual brand of humour !!   See you all next year..   Alan, Louise and Harry

Hi Sally - news re clinics as promised: 

We ran two very successful clinics over the October half-term which were especially appreciated by some exciting new rider-pony combinations who were pleased to get some practice in a relaxed environment.  Both clinics were taken by Katy Payne, and both she and the eight riders at the Flatwork clinic were very grateful to Philip Alder for kindly letting them use his indoor school on a very wild and windy day!!!

The second clinic saw 17 combinations, ranging from cradle stakes ponies to 15 handers,  tackle a challenging course at Grangelands Farm.  This gave everyone a chance to put in some practice for the winter shows and gave some of the new combinations lots of confidence as well as something to work on (one mother was seen in the local DIY store after the clinic,  buying up black plastic water trays - preparation is everything!!)

Thanks to Katy for her expertise and patience - everyone learned a lot.  Please keep an eye on our area web site for news of further clinics.  Wendy

Skier News

Rosie and Timberland are doing a bit better now. They won and went Champion at Area 8 in the 143 Restricted WHP and also had a first in the Res. Mixed Height WHP at Area 17 during half term. Unfortunately they missed the Championship at Keysoe as Rose was rather busy riding other ponies and  getting them ready  etc.

We were fortunate to take our “old” though young NF pony Burley Touch of Frost too, who now belongs to the Finnegans in Susie Gee land. His jumping was very good and he won the Res. Heritage WHP, was 3rd in the Novice and 3rd in the Open Heritage WHP.   We love having him to stay when the Finnegans go on holiday.

Val Evett-Farman’s  Bletchleypark Codebreaker did really well in a massively strong Nov. WHP Mixed class at Area 17 by coming 8th in a class of 24 and jumping a good round (so the judge said)

New Barbour Pony

Sienna has a new addition to her successful string. A very sweet natured 5 year old Sec. B named Rhoson Loire (Leo) who has already proved himself in a ridden class at P UK by winning a Novice M&M Ridden. He is now being brought on slowly with his jumping and I reckon this will be one to watch (in a year or two) in the HOYS M&M Workers. He moves very well and when his top line developes a bit more, I think he will be a super little chap. Good luck with him Sienna.

New Reynolds Pony

Mummy Reynolds has found a lovely Sec. C for Chrystia. I’ll have to let you know her name next news as Denise & Nick are on hols.in Dubai (alright for some) at the moment, Chrystia is at school and no-one left at home knows the pony’s name. The new partnership got off to a flying start at Area 17 Keysoe  by winning the Heritage WHP Championship. The day before this, they impressed Katy Payne by performing really well at the Area 7 WHP clinic.

During half-term, Will Reynolds had a bash at some Cross Country  on his coloured pony – Poppet (who he hunts a bit) and won 3rd place in an Under 10 class. It was his first try at XC and he coped really well. Mum is hoping that they can find some Tiny Tots WHP to do soon.

The spoilt baby – Notley Moon Sprite, is coming on quite well with his jumping but still has a tendency to balloon over a fence. Novice Nursery Stakes is what he will be aimed at eventually, when he realises he doesn’t have to jump 4ft over a little fence.  A strange but handy stocking filler could be Superglue for Chrystia this Christmas.

Dain & Frazer News

Here are the last results for the boys 

Unex Towerlands WHP Festival  I've got to tell you that this is a fantastic venue and look forward to the P(UK) Winter Champs being held there.

Frazer riding (Burnt House Lane)Tsunami

4th Mixed Height BSPS Open/Restricted Winter qualifier.  Qualified for both at Solihull!!!!!!!!!

2nd and Reserve Novice BSPS Heritage Winter. Only lost out by 1 mark, which was in the jumping phase.

Dain riding (Castlehill Flash) Hairy

1st and Champion P(UK) Shearwater Summer Champs Qualifier.                 Thanks  Andy.

Well done young people   Signing off now folks    

Happy Christmas to everyone  Sally

October News

August News

Hi Chaps,

I hope you are all well and not too exhausted after the hectic schedule of Championships from the Royal International and through August, especially you hard working mummies, trainers and grooms. I’ve got some lovely news this month (thanks to those who sent it in) and, where possible, I am going to include a bit of the ponies’ breeding just to add a bit of interest  ------- maybe we might have relatives in our pony world amongst friends and members in our area.

Changing the subject a bit. If anyone who won a trophy at the Squirrel Farm Show last year and hasn’t returned it yet, would they please get them back to me ASAP to above address.

I was thrilled to see the lovely photo in Horse and Hound of Evie Lovell and Barford Jack Flash taking the honours in the Pretty Polly Show Hunter Pony Championship at the Royal International. Well done Evie and to Chrissie for getting them in top form even though the odds were against you a bit with Evie’s dodgy knee only recently repaired. Brilliant.

Another super pickie in Horse and Hound (14 July) was of Tuffy Stockley winning the SHP Championship on Chiddock Over The Limit (Chiddock Fankino X Chiddock Fishwife) at The Royal Show. Well done Tuffy and thanks for your e.mail.

HI SALLY, SOME VERY EXCITING NEWS FROM THE RIHS ITCH AND TUFFY WON THE 14HH SHP 1! ALTHOUGH THEY DIDNT GET ANYTHING IN THE CHAMP ITCH LOVED THE BIG ARENA AND TUFFY GRINNED ALL THE TIME ! HE IS A TRUE STAR AND WE ARE SO LUCKY TO HAVE HIM AND WANT TO SAY A BIG THANK YOU TO DEB CATH RON AND ALL OF THE THOMAS TEAM FOR MAKING HIM WHAT HE IS AND OF COURSE TO GILLIE DAVIES FOR BREEDING SUCH AN AMAZING PONY! LUV TUFFY X

News from Harry Gaunt’s Pad

Harry is having a great time on his ponies this season.  Since the last
news, the highlights are:

Thamesbrook Sebastian (Brockwell Prince Charming x Brants Moonlight
Sonata) Won the Nursery at Lincolnshire Show, they jumped a great clear
at the Royal and finished 7th.  At the Royal International, over by far
the most difficult course either of them have ever attempted, they
acquitted themselves really well and just had the first fence down.
Well done Harry and Seb

Stremda Major (Brynn Ebbw Brigadier x Llanerche Corbel) has been jumping
consistently well in HOYS m&m worker classes.  We went to New Forest in July to discover that we had forgotten his bridle.  Poor Major had to pretend
to be bigger and jump in Seb's bridle.  All was not lost however.  He
jumped really well, did a fantastic show and WON,   That qualification
means more than any we have had before - Major is such a little star and
has done so much for Harry's confidence. 

Pebbly Pepperpot and Jess Nevin went to RIHS and were 2nd in the
coloured non native pony class, which was a tremendous effort.  They
were also 10th in the Open 122 shp.  Blue picked up her 2nd HOYS ticket
at NPS Malvern in the 122cm SHP - this was also Jess's 5th ticket.  She
is having a fantastic season.

It was great to see that 10 of the 30 competitors in the Nursery Stakes
at the Royal International were boys - In fact, there is a great bunch
of boys of similar ages competing now and they have such fun together.
Good luck to all Harry's friends at Peterborough and Newark - and HOYS

Bit of late news from LG.

Harry and Thamesbrook Sebastian took 2nd place in the Nursery Stakes at Area 15a Herts. And was 2nd in the Cradle Stakes on Stremda Major. Harry then took Major in the M&M WHP and won and went Champion. He’s definitey “on a roll”. Well done Harry, keep up the good work.

Little Lucy news  

Not sure if I let you know that Lucy's new pony has now qualified for all Lead Rein sections at the champs including the Harry Hall Best rider, and at Area 16 she qualified for HOYS.  Pony's name Rhyddlad Princess of Hearts, on loan to us for the season from Louise Curbishley. (Many thanks to her for this opportunity).  Also Lucy's surname is Burton.

Hope you are all well, and see you soon.  Jane Illsley

News from Jo Jenkins

Just to tell you that Deanne Burgin who is in her first year of showing, has qualified her horse ‘Haddon Hurricane’ for this year’s HOYS in the Large Int. SRT.  She has also qual. him  for the HOYS Small Riding Horse.  She is really looking forward to competing at her first BSPS Champs later this month with ‘Higgins’ and also Jo Jenkins successful HOYS qualified Small Hunter, ‘Field Day’.  Regards  Jo

“Wild” news from the O’ Connors

Juliette and Davdor Alyn (better known as Wild Thing) by Gwynrhosyn Geraint out of Waxwing Arrow had a successful show at NPS Champs. winning the Follywood Stud Intermediate M&M WHP  and then taking Res. Champion

They also had a commendable 2nd in the pairs when they palled up with Aimee Gould and Knodishall Charlemange. The two little snowballs went really well together.

Rosie and Suzy Skier are beginning to pick up a bit, after a pretty “also ran” season, marred by various setbacks with lameness, diseases, not enough outings, a fragile granny and a serious lack of dosh. Is it just me or is anyone else finding it meggarly expensive to compete these days? The twins were picked for our Pony Club Area Dressage Team, so we dutifully headed off to the venue and were positively shocked at how bad the going was. The field was so hard, bumpy and covered in cowpats and at £16 per entry (for 6mins a test) I would have thought that a better bit of going could be sought. They did OK though, both winning the prize for best junior in their sections.

Jennie Loriston-Clark wrote a super comment in her column in H&H AUG. 11th  (copy) Hard baked fields of stiff little riders on stiff little ponies supervised by even stiffer mums doesn’t help the feel good factor.

At NPS Area 17 Rosie and Timberland ( parentage unknown, yes he is a little B at times) won the Open 143 whp and went Res. Champion to Ellamanda Gee on Greenfields Willow who took the 133 section.

Suzy and Rosedale Chieftain (Rosedale Mohican x Pennwood Indiana) were 2nd in the Novice WHP.

News from the Watherston camp.  I can't believe that the season has gone so fast, we don't seem to have done much!  Mary (Carnsdale Hotshot) has continued to improve (so people tell us!!) We have done a few RIHS and HOYS qualifiers, mainly for experience and she has had some good placings (3rd RIHS Area 16, 3rd HOYS South of England) and also some nice wins in non-qualifiers - always good for the morale as the 143 workers are so strong.  She also jumped a double clear in her first BSJA competition and has been fantastic when we have taken her cross-country schooling - perhaps we should work on the dressage and go eventing!

We still have our 138cm section B - Kiltinane Rufus - he has been clear and placed in all but one of his HOYS M&M worker qualifiers but keeps missing out on that elusive ticket (if only the courses could be a bit more testing!!!)  He has also been 1st & Champion Shearwater at Malthouse, 1st and Champion BSPS Heritage worker at Ridgeway (so will be making a one day appearance at the BSPS champs - we miss the rest of the show as Fi is playing lacrosse)  In a rush of enthusiasm we plaited him up for the show at The College and he repaid us by winning the PUK Burghley potential event pony qualifier.  We have really struggled to find shows for Elspeth (Mundon Mallow Haze) our 15hand novice worker, but we have had a lot of fun cross-country schooling (at which she is a star) and doing some showjumping, including a jumping Derby - I guess we will have to wait for the winter shows to really get going with the workers.

As we've had a quieter year ourselves, it has been brilliant to see our old ponies being so successful with Dusty winning the Nursery at the Royal and RIHS, and Freddie doing fantastically in the qualifiers and being HOYS qualifer champion at the Winter champs.  It's really rewarding after spending time bringing ponies on, to see them go on and do so well with their new jockeys.

I’ve just received a lovely e.mail from the Atherden family who are having a brilliant season with their super hairy ponies. Although they are relatively new to the showing world, the two boys (gorgeous twins ---you must have spotted them ----- my girls certainly have) are really dedicated and hard working, spending many hours with their ponies and achieving excellent results in return. Considering that their first show that they competed in was Tring & District RC show in May 2004, I reckon the accomplishments below are a credit to their parents and to Suzie Dixon who introduced them to showing and who looks after their ponies at her yard in Stoke Mandeville.   Bravo you lot. 

 Here are some bits about Dain and Frazer's last two outings.

NPS Area 14 Sunday 3rd July 2005.

 Frazer rode Tsunami his 6 year old New Forest gelding in three classes.

2nd NPS Sealskinz Novice WHP ex 138.

1st and Champion P(UK) Shearwater WHP.

1st Travel Extras Dalkeith Junior Ridden.

 Tsunami - full name Burnt House Lane Tsunami is a Forest Bred pony.

His Sire is Royal Oak Ron. His Dam is Meg II.

Dain rode Hairy, his 10 year old Dales gelding in two classes.

1st and Champion NPS Sealskinz Novice WHP.

2nd and Reserve P(UK) Shearwater WHP.  Hairy is Castlehill Flash. His Sire is Stoneriggs Alick and his Dam is Castlehill Beauty.  A great day, two sashes and two lovely trophies, even though I got lost a bit on the way home.

We travelled to Malvern for our first NPS Summer Championships.

Frazer rode Tsunami and did very well:-

2nd place in a NPS Sealskinz Novice WHP qualifier in a class of 34.

8th in a HOYS WHP qualifier out of 53.

7th in a home produced ridden New Forest/Connemara class out of 24.

Dain rode Hairy.

5th place in a Picton Novice ridden qualifier out of 23.

1st and Champion in NPS Greenlinks Junior WHP Final.

Dain also rode Katie, our 9 year old Welsh section D mare.

Katie (Cathael Bay Girl), won the ex 138 height class at HOYS last year and stood Reserve.  Her Sire is Tireinon High Noon and her Dam is Cathael Bay Lady. This was Katie's first outing since November last year and she went clear in the HOYS Workers qualifier. To say it was emotional is an understatement, especially after what she has been through this year. Even though her marks were not what we anticipated, it didn't bother us too much, she jumped like a dream.  What a fanatstic time we all had, met some very nice people, had a few drinks!!!!!!!!! and are looking forward to Ponies UK.

Well Done Dain, Frazer, Tsunami, Hairy and my baby Katie.

July News

I’m a bit down in the dumps because I’ve only received a couple of e.mails from you this month. Actually that’s not entirely true, because one of my usual stalwarts (LG) who frequently sends me brilliant news, sent me a few jokes to read instead. Bit of an anticlimax, as I can get pretty excited when I receive newsy type Area 7 e.mails to send to the review. However, the one about Paddy, the pub and the wheelchair was quite a side splitter, the others were a bit rude so I’d best not pass them on. I have heard through the grapevine though that Harry Gaunt has qualified for the RIHS in the Nursery Stakes on Thamesbrook Sebastian. Well done Harry, keep up the good work.

News from Zara Kerwood

Hi this is our news from the past few months sorry Its so late, we haven't been doing much lately but these are our results:

Zara and Stoneriver Blue Apollo were 4th in the novice workers and 4th in the dressage/comp pony at the south show which was there last show because william has been sold now. However we still have Doodle Dandy II which is Zara's novice 15 hander. Which came 5th at the BSPS area 8 show in the novice whp and at the south show he was 5th in the dressage/comp pony. Since then he has had a few unfortunate poles but we have mostly been doing pony club SJ. 

News from Jane Illsley and little Lucy

Thought I would drop you a line just to say that Lucy (Burton), has a new lead rein pony for this season called Rhyddlad Princess of Hearts, Halle, at home.

She arrived at the end of May and we are having lots of fun with her, we have only been out twice so far but have won both times and been  mini reserve and champion respectively, she has qualified for PA systems, Premiere League, Champion of Champions and to my delight Lucy won the best rider qualification last week also.  We go for our first HOYS qualifier this weekend at Staffs County Fest so that will be interesting!!

 2nd e.mail from Jane

Hi Sally just a quicky to let you know that Lucy and Halle qualified for HOYS at the weekend, at Area 16. They won and were mini champs.  Can't believe it!!!

June News

Hope you are all having a good showing season and winning lots of prizes too. I would love to have some news from those shy ones who havn’t sent me their e.mails yet. You may also write by post or phone me to let me know what you’ve been up to.

Thankyou to all those peeps who have mentioned that they will miss the Squirrel Farm Show (due to it not being held anymore). Look below, at the May news, and you can find details of the courses, both whp, show jumping and xc that you can hire at Squirrel Farm now.  They include a good pen, bullfinches etc   

Some Skier News:  Rosie and Suzie Skier are not having their best season ever despite Suzie qualifying for the RIHS by coming 2nd and Reserve Champion at Royal Windsor and getting a teeny mention in the Horse & Hound report (mostly about me (mum) shopping round the trade stands during the Championship because there was me thinking “we shan’t get a “look in” as Suzie and Ernford Bittersweet only came 2nd in the class, but lo and behold, the judge picked the two 133cms WHP’s to be Champion and Reserve and I got a real roasting for not being there for their moment of glory)  Hey Ho I can’t seem to get anything right for my teenagers at the moment and most of the time I get called all sorts of things in teenage language and spoken to in a most derogatory way, tho’ it’s usual that I don’t understand their terminology and if they do say anything resembling a nicity it is usually amidst a lot of grunts or their wanting something (usually money or going out on the town). My lovely little ones grew into young people who I don’t know so well now. I’m assured by many, who have had similar “pains in this area”, that this will eventually pass. I hope it’s soon.  Suzie also had a 6th in the HOYS 133 WHP and a 4th in the HOYS 138cms M&M WHP at the South of England Show 11th June on Ernford Bittersweet

Rozie’s  pony Timberland  is very slowly recovering from the dreaded lurgey thing on his back. He hasn’t had a saddle on since the beginning of March, so it will be hang on tight time for Rozie when she eventually gets back in the plate.

NEWS FROM FRANKIE JUDGE AND GEM: Since the BSPS Winter Champs Frankie and Gem have been on 3 outings and here are the results.
BSPS Area 8 Royal Berkshire County Agricultural: RIHS 153cm whp - 2 poles down -  6th Novice 153cm whp - 1st + reserve champion, Mixed height Open whp - 1st
British Connemara Pony Society Show: Open part breeds/over height connies whp - 1st Performance Pony class 5th/2nd part bred (Qu. NPS)
PUK Part bred/over height connie ridden 2nd (Qu.PUK)  Won the award for Best Part bred of the show!
Princethorpe & Kingsley 2 day event: After dressage (our worst phase!) we were in 4th place. We then carried that on with a clear round in the show jumping. Day 2 started off well but then we had 2 rather unexpected stopps in the XC phase, also giving us time penalties..boo hoo. Finnished 15th overall and 6th as a team. Gem came very heavily into season that same day, so could have afected her...(not that we are trying to make excuses or anything!! Tee hee...

We have some more shows coming up, including some HOYS qualifiers that will hopefully go as planed...fingers crossed!!

Results for Sophie Bettison and Sapperton Inca
Fritwell Show 1st May
Open 143cm SHP - 3rd
RIHS Pretty Polly 143/153cm SHP - 1st
RIHS Pretty Polly - Champion
B.S.P.S. area 8 - Newbury 2nd May
RIHS 143cm SHP - 3rd ( out of 16 - missed qualifing by 1!!)

 Katie Bettison and Aztec Ice have been doing very well with their showjumping recently and have had many red rosettes.

News from the Alder family and Wilby Viscount (Dartmoor  M&M Lead Rein) ridden by Sophie Alder .  Just to let you know that after a 6 week break from showing, as the above qualified for most classes early we have now, at our second attempt, qualified for HOYS.
So have now qual for HOYS with a win and champ at Midland Counties 26 in the class
RHIS with a win and reserve champ.Area 15a
Champion of Champions..PUK Winter Champs
PUK Winter Champs  1st in the colne championship class.  1st in the open winter class

Harry Gaunt News
Harry and Thamesbrook Sebastian have had a busy time in Nursery Stakes recently, culminating in a thrilling 3rd at Royal Windsor and then travelled all the way to Swansea to jump some fabulous John Hall courses set amongst the trees on undulating park turf.  They were even more thrilled to qualify for the RIHS there.  Harry also took Stremda Major
in the HOYS M&M worker and had an unfortunate pole down but still finished 6th - it is to be hoped that more of the HOYS M&M qualifiers are over similar testing tracks whereby the better jumpers come to the fore.  The plaited workers seem to manage it!  Harry and Major then went to Keysoe and won the Cradle Stakes and went on to take Reserve
Champion. 

Harry also took his Uncle Peter's"new" 133cm pony for his first outing in public and,
several bitten fingernails later, finished a creditable 3rd in the Mixed Height Novice SHP.  Hopefully this marks the start of better times ahead - no small thanks to Bonny Bradley for being brave enough to continue jumping him at home where others had to bow out due to parachute failure and broken limbs.

Stop Press.. The same combination went to East Anglia Native Pony Show
and won an unaffilliated Novice/Nervous Riders working hunter pony.
Their first jumping round in public.  Well done Harry - but now the
really hard work begins!.
 

The committee, stewards, judges and helpers from the Area 7 Fritwell Show will have taken a few days  to recover from the amazing turnout of ponies and horses we had on May 1st. Many thanks to everyone who attended and “kept their cool”. Apologies to those who returned home late - we shall be adding more rings for next year, to spread the load, so please don’t be put off by this year finishing so late.

A SPECIAL THANKYOU to everyone who helped before, on and after the day ---- you all deserve a medal. 

 Squirrel Farm in Stoke Mandeville have got the jumps out at last, so if you would like to come over and have a “school up” just call me on 01296 612998. Cross country course is open. Workers’ course includes a pen, bullfinch, ditches, pans, flower pots and all the usual spooky stuff. Show jumps are up as well. Instructors welcome.

Some from Ginny Duncan.   5 year old Highland pony, Brungrange Toby qualified at his first ever ridden show at Fritwell against all the odds.  Having taken the decision to enter both my Fell, Townend Badger and Toby I needed to get Toby a competition card and also find someone to ride him in the qualifier.  I sent off for my Picton card and sent my entries for the show the same day.  By the Friday before the show I’d not received my card so called the NPS office and asked if it was in the post – to my horror they said they had not received the application and, having already sent my entries for the show, I had no choice but to pay the £40 rush fee.  My friend Alison Hardy offered to ride Toby for me, only having sat on him for 10 mins in the field the previous Sunday and hacked out for 40 mins on the Wednesday of the show.  We arrived early for the show day and I went to the secretary’s office to collect my numbers – unfortunately Louise said that she’d not received an entry from me – so I had not alternative than to do a late entry for both ponies. Toby was originally pulled in 2nd and then was pulled up to 1st – whereas myself and Badger moved from 4th to 7th. I was really thrilled with Toby and then absolutely over the moon when he took the Championship – a great start to his ridden career.

Dain and Frazer Atherden, who ride out of Swindon Stables in Stoke Mandeville, Aylesbury, had enjoyable days out at P(UK) events recently.

 West Midlands Stallion Show:-

Dain riding his 10 year old Dales gelding Castlehill Flash (Hairy) had the following results:-

 Risely Sir Lancelot Smartest on Parade Reg/Unreg exc 138cms   1st and Champion           Con Nov M&M WHP 4 years+                                                       2nd
The Travel Extras Dalkeith Junior M&M Ridden - Lrg                  5th
Open M&M working Hunter Pony - exc 138cms                            4th
PUK Winter Champs:
The Travel Extras Dalkeith Junior M&M Ridden - Lrg                  2nd and 1st Res

Frazer riding his 5 year old New Forest gelding Burnt House Lane Tsunami  had the following:-
West Mids Stallion Show:
Risely Sir Lancelot Smartest on Parade Reg/Unreg exc 138cms     2nd and Res
The Travel Extras Dalkeith Junior M&M Ridden - Lrg                    3rd
Open M&M working Hunter Pony - exc 138cms                             5th
Con Nov M&M WHP 4 years+                                                         4th
P(UK) Winter Champs:
The Travel Extras Dalkeith Junior M&M Ridden - Lrg                   3rd
Risely Series Smartest on Parade - M&M                                      3rd

Both boys are looking forward to the season and have a 2 year old Connemara filly, Rosenaharley Laurilly that Frazer has already qualified for P(UK) Summer Champs. Dain's Welsh Section D mare, Cathael Bay Girl, will hopefully be ready to compete again in the Summer after a short lay off.

News from Tuffy Stockley
chiddock over the limit champ h\p at puk stallion show champ at area 5 also at puk winter champs champ of champs and supreme of the show. classified was 4th at area 5 and won his mirage final at puk .

News from the Larners
After what seems like a long winter focused mainly on house building rather than ponies we have finally got going with the 2005 show season.  Emily has started off with a good run on her new First Ridden Show pony Ardenhall Baby Doll that has included a win and championship at NPS Area 15, a win and reserve championship in the Novice section at BSPS Area 2A. Emily's dartmoor pony Cayberry Temptation has also been doing well in the generally massive First Ridden M&M classes with a 3rd at NPS Area 15 and 2nd in the RIHS class at North Hampshire. Our mainstay Haighend Prince Charming who we now have at home in Middleton Cheney made his first appearance of the season at the weekend at Area 2A with new jockey Alisa Vines and gained his R.I.H.S ticket in the 138cm Show Pony class.
 

Tuffy and Chiddock Over the Limit go Supreme!

Tuffy Stockley took the Show Hunter Pony Championship at the West Midlands Stallion Show, Area 5 and Keysoe.  She also took Open Champion of Champions and went Supreme of Show.  Classified was 4th Intermediate Show Hunter and took the Mirage Final at Keysoe

Harry Gaunt was delighted with Stremda Major, who won the Lee Smith M&M Nursery Stakes Championship and was even more thrilled the next day, when Thamesbrook Sebastian jumped superbly to take the Open Nursery Stakes Championship
 

Sebbie & Harry

The Kerwoods sent their news -We have not been many places this winter but we thought we would email results from October to February.

Stoneriver Blue Apollo Zara's novice 14 hander:
East Soley:   Nov 143cmsWHP: 4th  &  Open 143cms WHP: 2nd
BSPS AREA 9A:  Nov. 143 cmsWHP: 2nd & Restricted 143 cms WHP: 6th
Solihull BSPS area 6 (November): Nov. 143 cms WHP: 6th
Keysoe : Nov. 143 cms WHP: 6th & Restricted 143cms WHP: 4th

Zara has only done one show on her new novice 15 hander Doodle Dandy II
Addington:  Nov. 153cms WHP: 1st

Area 7’s new press peep is at your service, champing at the bit in anticipation of relaying  news from Area 7 members ----- even the shy one’s will be sought out for their revelations.

The working hunter  clinic went off very well with Rachel Turner at the helm, putting the riders------ranging from Cradle to Intermediates, through their paces. Held at Milton Keynes on  9.01 05  they were coached on gridwork and the riding of courses.  Rachel’s knowledge and expertise in the WH/ Jumping “field” is much appreciated and those taking part will have benefited  from  this informative day. Many thanks to Wendy Watheston who organises our training days.  A “flat” showing clinic is being organised for 15th February at Philip Alder’s and another WHP clinic will be held at The Payne’s  in  Kimble,  Nr. Princes Risborough on 13th March.  Louise will be sending the relevant forms out soonish, so book yourself in and get those joddies on. - Click on Training to see more..
 

The Area 7 winter qualifying show at Addington Manor, Bucks on 13th February is occupying the committee’s grey matter at present and we hope to see you all there for this Valentines Show ----- not too much kissing please.  The Summer Show date is now on the 1st May 2005 and has many qualifiers for RIHS, BSPS Champs, NPS and Ponies UK Champs. Schedules for both shows available on this site, see the Shows page
 

Reading through the Winter Champs schedule has made Suzie Gee a very happy bunny as they have included a class for Tiny Tots WHP. I’m sure many other mummies also will be glad to have a chance for their little ones to do a bit of jumping  at Solihull.  News on ponies being prepared for the coming season’s showing is a little thin on the ground but here goes anyway.

Mandy Cosgrove, better known as Mary Poppins, is in the throes of getting the Jackson - Gee ponies and children organised for the coming season and according to mum (Suzie) is an absolute Godsend, allowing Suzie to have a well earned, more relaxed approach.

Tabitha, Ellamanda and Suzie rode sidesaddle to the Grafton Hunt meet over the Christmas period.  Tabby has a novice acquisition this year,  a lovely bay 158cms worker named Skipover and Suzie may hijack him to do the occaisional small hunter class. Bay Jackson - Gee will be competing on a roan 143cms Open WHP called Woody Road.  Ellamanda is getting on a treat with Tabby’s ex. Open 133cms WHP Greenfields Willow, she looks very cute on him  and also rides him sidesaddle.  Even cuter is little Hermione who will be riding Finbar, a versatile coloured pony who competes in Cradle Stakes, Sidesaddle, Coloureds and 1st Pony of Hunter Type.  Maestir Mood Indigo a Welsh A, will be included in the string as Ellamanda  adores her and she wont give her up. M & M 1st Riddens and M & M Nursery are her forte.
 

Sophie Alder will be making her debut in First Year 1st Ridden on Barkway Happy Returns. She is still eligible for M & M Lead Reins and will be the usual strong contender on the Welsh A, .Rosemarch Holly Berry and the Dartmoor, Wilby Viscount.
 

Harry Gaunt is enjoying his hunting on the super little Stremda Major and mum is desperately trying to keep up with them on her HOYS Heavyweight Cob of the Year Stan the Man. (No chance Louise.) Harry is still in need of a slightly larger version of Major, to do Nursery Stakes on for the coming season.
 

Fiona Watherston will be bringing out her two new mares this year in the 143cms WHP with Carmsdale Hotshot and the 153cms. WHP with Mundon Mallow Haze. Kiltinane Rufus ( M & M 138cms. WHP) will be kept in the string as a calming influence on the feisty females. Fiona’s  Novice 143cms. WHP Seabrook Sweet Charity is looking for a new home as Fiona is still playing plenty of Lacrosse and concentrating on the other three. Whew, where does she get that energy from?

Frankie Judge on Ballymore Holly’s Gem are going great guns already, having qualified for the winter champs in 3 WHP classes and doing plenty of PC activities, going hunting and show jumping.  Sister Sammie Judge with The Bascote Poacher , a nice Connie that they bought last autumn, is also having a lot of fun  in  workers, dressage, show jumping and PC.

Rosie Skier is thrilled to bits with her 143cms Open WHP Timberland 2nd , and although twin sister Suzy has recently broken her arm and wont be riding for a few weeks yet, she is looking forward to getting back in the saddle on her new  143cms NWHP Rosedale Chieftain and Louise Gaunt’s 133cms Open WHP Ernford Bittersweet.
 

Juliette O’Connor has had a good winter season on Davdor Alyn, qualifying for the champs in M & M workers and going champion M & M WHP at East Soley last November. Better known as “Wild Thing”  he and Juliette have really hit it off in the relatively short time they’ve been a partnership and are currently working towards the Under 21’s Fledglings Dressage.
 

I’ve just been on the blower to Chrissie Lovell who was up to her eyes in cooking her childrens tea. In hindsight it Wasn’t the best time to choose. However, she gave me a smidge of information on about five ponies,that she has “lying about in the field”, so woolly that they are hard to recognise as future stars and she hasn’t a clue what they’ll be like as some of them havn’t even had a Lovell junior on their backs -----ever. “We’ve all been hunting three times a week through the holiday and William’s possible lead rein hasn’t been broken in yet” she yells with a giggle in her voice. Good luck William   The only definites that I could prize from her for this season were Barford Jack Flash and Cloud Nine,  presumably for Evie to show. The telephone conversation starts to go downhill as there is an almighty cuffuffal in the background and I realise that I’m no contest for the hungry ones. The phone goes down and I start to envisage Chrissie, in a few weeks time, whizzing about with the speed of light, turning these hairy, little mammoths into elegant potential stars and working all the hours God sends to get things on the road. It’s no wonder that she is so enviably slim.

Sienna Barbour has been busy with school work and concentrating on her entrance exam which is imminent, and so has done very little lately with her exquisite Woodvale Lucky Charm. Sienna has a new recruit in Doylan Reflection,a palomino

Welsh B  and she hopes to do some novice and nursery M & Ms with him. Blackhills Trapeze will also be part of the team and mum Deana hopes she may persuade four year old Stuart to do some M & M lead reins with him,  though she is not convinced that Stuart’s attention span is “up for it”  If older sister Skye has a free moment between Drama school, A levels and travelling to Canada  to perform in a play, she will be riding her Open SRT / Intermediate WH  “High Fidelity”  although  Deana may have to keep the mare ticking over for her.

Signing off now folks ----- don’t forget to send in your news before 13th Feb for next months review.

Regards from Sally

Congratulations to Harry Gaunt on Stremda Major who was recently awarded the Supreme Points Championship at our Area Awards lunch recently, and also to Tuffy Stockley who was Reserve Supreme on Smallland Night Spell.

Also special congratulations to Tom Lovell who won the Chairman's Award.  This was presented to Tom for his continuous help at our shows and for his encouragement of the younger members.  Well done Tom

All the results are available on the Points Awards Page

Frankie Judge and Ballymore Holly's Gem have completed a fantastic first season together with some hunting show jumping and showing in preparation for the winter champs.  Having successfully qualified for all novice classes at the ponies UK summer champs they attended with little idea of how the pair would do in the finals, however this was soon put to rest as she was placed in every class.

Since the summer Frankie and Gem have been focusing on BSPS classes and have qualified for the novice 153cm and intermediate whp and the restricted 153cm and intermediate whp (also for Ponies UK although she forgot her card!) including many reserve champion and champion spots.  The pair have also qualified for the Dengie finals and helped the pony club team to a first show jumping place. 

With Frankie's sister Sammie's new partnership with Connermara The Bascote Poacher both are looking forward to an exciting year and even better results.

A big thank you must go to Katie Payne for all her help with Gem during Frankie's Mock GCSE exams.

Rosie Stewart recently sent news to me.  She has not been to many WHP shows recently as she has been hunting madly but her results are:
 
Flimstone Fantasy (153WHP and next year's FEI Event pony)
Radway SJ               3'6  -                              1st
Area 17, Keysoe       Mixed height conf. Nov -  4th
                               Mix.h.open -                     2nd
                              Mix.h.  rest. -                     1st

Mr Mischief (Nov 143WHP)
Morton Morrel SJ   3'0 - Individual               4th (and 1st Team)
                              3'6   Team                        1st
Milton Keynes SJ    95cm (dengie) -                4th

Take A Chance (143WHP)
Radway SJ             2'9 -                                 2nd
                              3'6 -                                 3rd
Area 17, Keyso        Mixed height Nov. -          8th
                              Mix.h. open -                     10th
Morton Morrel SJ   3'0 -                                2nd
MKEC SJ               2'9 -                                 4th
                             95cm (Dengie) -                 1st

 And her gorgeous 143WHP, Godsfield Fandango who did his first  2 FEI events this spring has not really been himself at all this year as he suffered a bad reaction to his flu vaccination. so he has been to very few shows. However we are all looking forward to seeing him out next year!!!!

The Barbour Family were at Area 17.  Sienna continued her fantastic season with Woodvale Lucky Charm, with a win in the Open Nursery and then went on to take the Championship

Both Skier girls have been busy on their new 143cm workers.  Rosie has been having a good run with  the very handsome Timberland with wins at Thame, Henley, BSPS Area 8 and Area 17 (Keysoe).  Suzi finshed above her at Bucks County with Rosedale Chieftain and has been unlucky (or lucky depending how you look at it) to finish second to Rosie on the other occasions

Vicky O'Connor and her new pony Davdor Alyn were 3rd in the Heritage Mixed Height Open whp at Area 17

Harry Gaunt and Stremda Major were 4th in the Open Nursery at Keysoe and then had a fantastic day at Area 9a, winning 3 classes, the Novice Nursery, Cradle and Open Nursery and then went on to be Mini Champion, jumping consistently in all classes

Stremda Major

Congratulations to Fiona Watherston, and Parkfield Freddie who jumped a fantastic clear round and finished 5th in the 133cm whp  The occasion was tinged with more than a little sadness as it was Fi's last big show on him.  Freddie is going to continue his illustrious career with Zoe Newsham and all wish at Area 7 wish her the very best of luck with him - lucky Zoe!

Also on song was Jasean Spraggett with Pebbly Pepperpot.  Having survived a very nasty fall earlier in the week, Jas recovered in time to pilot "Blue" to a very creditable 6th place in the Non Native Coloured Pony section and also won the Best Turned Out award for the second year running! This was all the more remarkable considering that Jas was not well enough to ride before the class and so "Blue" did not get a chance to be ridden at all until just before going in to the arena.  She (the pony) is now enjoying a holiday and is very woolly and muddy in the field

Louise Gaunt's Stan the Man, really did put his best foot forward winning the Heavyweight Cob of the Year.   He looked magnificent under the lights, went superbly both for Jayne Webber and the judge, David Bartram.  The combination of warming up with Lorenzo, and the Household Cavalry, along with his viewing of the strobe lighting whilst standing in the tunnel, eventually proved just a little too much for this relatively inexperienced chap and his "over-exuberance" without doing anything specifically wrong, meant that he rather threw away his chance in the Championship.  Watch out next year!!
 

Good luck to the following Area 7 members who have qualified for Birmingham.  If you have qualified and  are not on the list it is because you have not told me how well you have done!

Tabi Jackson Gee's   Woody Road                   143cm whp
Fiona Watherston's  Parkfield Freddie            133cm whp
Sophie Alder's  Rosemarche Holly Berry          M & M First Ridden
Evie-Rose Lovell's Longvalley Merry Go Round  122cm Show Hunter Pony
Harry Gaunt's Pebbly Pepperpot                      Coloured Non Native Pony
Louise Gaunt's Stan the Man                            Heavyweight Cob

Pebbly Pepperpot

Congratulations to Sienna Barbour and Woodvale Lucky Charm, who had a fantastic run at Peterborough with wins including Pretty Polly Nursery, going on to become Supreme Pretty Polly and looked fantastic under the lights. Later in the week they also won the Champion of Champions  Nursery Stakes, over a very tricky course that produced few clears. They went in the Supreme of  Show on Tuesday night and both Sienna and Mum Deanna said they would never forget the occasion, once again looking fantastic and doing a foot perfect show.  Well done the Barbour family

Victoria O'Connor told me she had a great show too, with several wins and a Championship.  They are going to send more details and pictures

I saw Evie-Rose Lovell on Barford Jack Flash.  They were second (I think) in the Pretty Polly 133cm SHP and went on to be Reserve Champion.  When you read this Evie, send me a photo and further details

Harry Gaunt and Stremda Major had a good week.  After a slightly disastrous dressage (a tractor delivering loos went past the arena just as they were starting their test), they were 3rd in the Gold Cup WHP, and finished 8th overall.  What a fantastic competition the Gold Cup is.  Consistent jumping ensured that they were placed in all but one of their many classes during the week.

I know that Tabi Jackson-Gee and Woody Road were also placed in the Gold Cup but am waiting confirmation of their results.

Please send in your news - wins, places, funny stories etc

Sophie Alder had a fantastic NPS Championship Show at Malvern.  With Rosemarche Holly Berry, she went Mini Supreme of Show and overall Home Produced Supreme.  At the same show, Harry Gaunt was 3rd in the very strong Rocking Horse Stakes final, with Stremda Major, The pair have had a very good run lately, with several Cradle Stakes wins and a Mini WHP Championship.

The Gaunt's had a victorious Royal International Horse Show. Pebbly Pepperpot won the Non Native Coloured Pony class, ridden by Jasean Spraggett and Stan the Man was 2nd in the Heavyweight Cobs, with Jayne Webber aboard
 

News from Louise Gaunt
The Gaunt Family have had a terrific season with their ponies and also Mum's Bob, with which she had some hairy moments last Spring whilst trying to tame him.  PEBBLY PEPPERPOT has won several cradle stakes and was Coloured WHP of the Year at the NPS Championships.  She was Champion WHP at Bucks County and has really excelled in the coloured classes.  She took Harry into two late evening performances at P(UK) Summer Champs and behaved impeccably as usual.  She qualified for HOYS(1st, 2nd or 3rd in 7 qualifiers) and finally, at Birmingham, she really came good, coming 3rd overall and best 12.2.  She also won best turned out, much to Mum's surprise.  This was a fantastic result as she is only 120cm and was up against horses of 153cm.  ERNFORD BIITERSWEET with Suzi Skier thrilled the huge travelling supporters club by winning the Nursery Stakes at RIHS in tremendous style.  The aim now is for Suzi to continue on her in Open 133cm whp over the winter and next year. In fact, she won the Open 133whp and went Champion at Thame, at her first and only attempt and so has already qualified for next year's .  Champion of Champions.  Harry is very lucky that Charlotte Andrews let him have her adored STREMDA MAJOR for cradle stakes and M&M Workers.  It is very early days but they are already good friends.  Winter shows do, however, take second place to his rugby games and so Mum's days out are stricly limited.

Awaiting picture

Pebbly Pepperpot
(Photo by Real Time Imaging)
To see bigger picture, click on image