PONY CLUB CAMP   Write Up  2012

This years camp was the best ever, not only did we have fun on the ponies every day in the most lovely weather but we also were very lucky to be able to use the very beautifully located heated pool at Kings manor which was the highlight of the triathlon, the shooting took place at Hill farm under the watchful eye of William Brown and for the running we went from Colwell Bay to Totland Bay along the sae wall, a little flat but it was a very warm day, also it is a good excuse to swim and cool off afterwards, not only for those who ran so fast but also those who walked so slowly whilst chatting so quickly.

We couldn’t resist the opportunity in this very special year to put on our own Olympics but as national equestrian teams  were already chosen we had to make our own schedule of events to include Gymnastics- walking the slippery pole, Hurdles- on space hoppers, Triple jump in sacks and the wheelbarrow racing, all “Olympians” were given official matching Pony Club T shirts and to add that hint of authenticity, we were very kindly allowed to borrow Totland parish councils Olympic rings made especially for the Olympic torch run through Totland which we returned the next morning.  Medals were won by all in true British fashion and like all athletes who have been in training for a very long time sticky buns, cakes and squash were enjoyed by all courtesy of Rose (Neves’ Gran).

Everyone enjoyed the farriers talk kindly given by Ollie, even the ones who had done their shoeing badge last time learned a great deal more than they had before and went home with a good insight into the different shoes that are used, why and who would use them so well done and thank you to Ollie

The last day always brings excitement as the preparations for a Gymkhana begin. Tails are washed, tack is cleaned, ponies are groomed and polished and mums arrive with clean jods and shirts and tents are turned upside down looking for that missing white glove or The Pony Club badge that was on a jacket but has been mislaid probably during the midnite feast.

There was one small problem, we had to start early if we were going to fit all the classes in so we started with turn out then to jumping moving on to games and ending with chase me charlie a very popular and competitive game to gain the confidence of even the newest members.  Scoring complete and totalled we had time to finish up with the grand finale, Jet skiing in Totland Bay which is a really great way to end a fantastic week. I forgot to mention the prize giving, a list of winners will be posted soon

Well now it is all over I can only say thank you for being such good fun and so well behaved.  Photos alsoo be posted soon so keep looking……..