Sponsored by Mylchreests Mitsubishi and Malcolm Jones Limited
JUNIORS
TADPOLES 'A' On/off lead rein - for beginners only - at discretion of organisers.
Jumps as low as possible. Novice horses can go Hors Concours
TADPOLES 'B' As above - jumps a fraction higher
NB : If a ‘Tadpole' enters Class 1 or above they must go H/C in the Tadpole Class
JUNIOR Rider born in or after 1995 . Ponies 148cm and under
CLASS 1 Novice Rider - Rider not to have won a first prize in any show jumping competition, more than 8 points in classes 1 & 2 or 4 points in classes 3-6. Fences approx 55cm
CLASS 2 Novice Pony - Pony not to have won a first prize in any show jumping competition more than 8 points in classes 1 & 2 or 4 points in classes 3-6. Fences approx 55cm
CLASS 3 Intermediate Pony - Not to have won more than 12 points in this class at a GGH competition. (Points applicable to any one pony/rider combination). Fences approx 60cm
CLASS 4 Cubhunter - Fences approx70cm
CLASS 5 Advanced Intermediate Handicap - Fences 75cm, 80cm, 90cm
CLASS 6 Open Handicap – Fences approx 80cm, 90cm & 1m
Please state rider's age and height of pony for classes 5 & 6
SENIOR
CLASS 7 Novice Rider - Rider not to have won a first prize in any show jumping competition more than 16 points in classes 7 & 8, or 8 points in classes 9-12. Fences approx 60cm
CLASS 8 Novice Horse/Pony - Horse/Pony not to have won a first prize in any show jumping competition, more than 16 points in classes 7 & 8, or 8 points in classes 9-12. Fences approx 60cm
CLASS 9 Intermediate - Not to have won more than 12 points in this class at GGH (Points applicable to any one horse/pony rider combination). Fences approx 65cm
CLASS 10 Forage Stakes Fences approx 75cm
CLASS 11 Cubhunter Fences approx 80cm
CLASS 12 Open Fences approx 95cm
In classes 1-3 and 7-9 there will be a points system for upgrading. At the end of our jumping season we will be holding a Championship. This is open to all, but only those who have qualified by the rider competing in at least four, and the pony/horse at least two, of the indoor jumping events in the season, will be eligible for the sponsors prize money and trophies. Anyone out of a class on points during the current season may continue in that class until the end of the season to enable them to accumulate points for the Championship prize money. In addition to the trophies awarded on the Championship Day, there will be prize money for the three combinations with the most points gained during the season, in each class.
The Pauline Sansbury Memorial Trophy will be awarded for the rider aged 40 yrs and over at the start of the season who gains the most points during the season, in any one class . Please note eligibility on entry form.
Entry fee £7.50 per class - late entries will be £10 per class.
All entries must be in the hands of the Secretary by 8.00 pm on the Thursday prior to the event.
Entries to: Secretary (Jumping), GGH Equitation Centre, Ballacallin Mooar, Crosby, Isle of Man. IM4 2HD.
NB It is mandatory to wear a hat manufactured to EN 1384, AS TMS 1163, PAS 015 or SNELL E 2201 with kite mark or SEI. CHIN STRAPS must be fastened at all times when mounted
DATES OF EVENTS 2011/12 16 October - 6 November - 4 December - 8 January - 5 February - 4 March
There was almost a touch of spring in the air at the fourth round of the Indoor Series of Showjumping at GGH Equitation Centre on Sunday 8 th January. The very young entries in the two Tadpole Classes are proving to be just as competitive as the older riders, many of whom rode some polished rounds in their attempt to gain points towards the sponsorship awards at the Championship in April.
The format, first run nearly 30 years ago, is proving to be just as popular as when it was originally run with the present sponsors Malcolm Jones Ltd and Mylchreests Mitsibushi now providing the end of season prize money. By this time in the season, the fourth round of six, some of the riders are beginning to clock up a good number of points.
For a couple of seasons now the pony, Donkey boy, has been encouraging young riders in the Tadpole Classes and this Sunday Josh Dudley shared the ride with a new young competitor, Frankie Cullen, who won the class. There were five boys in Tadpoles A, and one of them, Jarred Ingham on Cayberry Quite Unique, went on to win Tadpoles B.
In the Novice Pony Class Jessica Loader won on her new pony Oaklands Lustre: they look like a force to be reckoned with in the future. Freya Cullen on Get Jiggy With It didn't quite have it all her own way in the higher classes, two of which she won, as Sinead Cox won the Cubhunter on her new pony Greendown Ozzy.
In the Adult Classes, the honours were fairly evenly shared out with some good riding in the higher classes over yet another challenging course built by George Osborn , while the judging for the day was shared by Jo Brackett and Emma Kennaugh.
Open ,
1, Kirree Staley (Pretty Boy);
2, Fran Hunt (Armani);
3, Juliet Tranter (Nitron X).
GGH WINTER DRESSAGE 2011
We are holding some more Junior and Adult Autumn competitions to allow more practice for riders and also to provide the opportunity for trainee judges to gain experience in judging. We will start in the afternoons (or later morning if large entry) and continue into the evenings. Please state on entry form if you are able to come late morning, afternoon, or earliest time you can start in the evening.
These classes are ideal for first time dressage competitors and young horses. At the discretion of the organisers, entries will be divided into sections according to perceived experience. The very experienced entries may be asked to ride “hors concours” (H/C).
Presentation of annual awards for adults and juniors for (a) Marked Improvement and (b) Consistent Achievement, will be made at the event on 12th October.
This year there will not be separate days for juniors, but they can enter any of the other days. Section A – 12 years & under )_ Please state ‘A' Section B – 16 years & under ) or ‘B' on entry form
NEW. You can enter the same test twice – with a £1.00 discount for the second entry, which will be H/C (Non-Competitive)
Wed 12th October Class 1 Intro ‘B'
Class 2 Test 1
Class 3 Test 10
Class 4 Test 20
Class 5 Test 24
Class 6 Test 44
Wed 2nd November Class 1 Intro ‘A'
Class 2 Test 4
Class 3 Test 12
Class 4 Test 24
Class 5 Test 28
Class 6 Test 44
Thurs 17th November Class 1 Intro ‘B'
Class 2 Test 1
Class 3 Test 7
Class 4 Test 20
Class 5 Test 27
Class 6 Test 49
Thurs 1st December Class 1 Intro ‘A'
Class 2 Test 7
Class 3 Test 13
Class 4 Test 27
Class 5 Test 36
Class 6 Test 49
ALL ENTRIES TO BE SENT TO MRS GILBEY, BALLACALLIN MOOAR, CROSBY , IM4 2HD
5 days before Competition.
ENTRY FEE : £7.50 CHEQUES Payable to: GILBEY COMPETITIONS
Please RING FOR TIMES - between 6 & 7 pm 2 DAYS BEFORE - Tel 851450
There was such a large entry in the two tadpole classes at GGH Equitation Centre for the third qualifying round of the Winter Indoor Showjumping Series on Sunday 4 th December that the rest of the juniors started rather late – so next month it is planned to start them at 8.45am! However it was very encouraging for the Competitors to have David Mylchreest representing Mylchreests Mitsubishi, one of the Sponsors along with Malcolm Jones Ltd, watching much of the morning session.
Boys are always rather thin on the ground on these jumping days, but there were six in the Tadpole Classes, with twins Cameron and Josh Dudley and Jarred Ingham taking the top three places – look out girls! With only three seconds between the three, places for the most points during the season are going to be hard fought for.
Some of the younger horses during the day showed some real potential in the Adult Classes, with Commanche Razor Light showing great sensitivity for a young horse by giving Lorna Parry her first competitive ride to take second place in the Novice Rider Class. He then went on to win the Intermediate Class with a fast balanced ride for owner Stella Hampton.
There were more entries than usual in the higher classes, and again some really well ridden, balanced rounds over the challenging course designed by George Osborn, which required thoughtful riding with a joker fence in the jump off. The fastest time of the day was Abby Corlett on Conrhenny Elipsis who won the Cubhunter Class streaks ahead of the others, and then went on to win the Open.
If you look hard you can always find something to remember a day by. On Thursday 1 st December the earlier competitors at the final Autumn Informal Dressage had to ride in a rather dark arena as the Electricity Board decided to disconnect their supply. However judge Angela Kennedy was undeterred and was rewarded by the lights coming on for the final classes.
Jeanette Weatherall has had a steady improvement in her marks throughout the year, and won both the Preliminary Classes on Poppy with good percentages. It was also good to see Paula Harwood pushing out the boundaries and achieving a very presentable percentage in her first Elementry Class. Carly Letch, on Rihanna, only beat her by a small margin on her lovely young horse, and went on to achieve a high percentage in the Medium 71.
With the cooler weather the evening entry was smaller, but all the young riders continued to show an improvement in the quality of their tests.
Group ‘C' ,
1, Jeanette Weatherall (Poppy);
2, Judie O'Neill (Ria);
3, Chris McFee (Happy Meadow).
Test 13 ,
Group ‘A' ,
1, Freya Cullen (Get Jiggy With It).
Group ‘B' ,
1, Emma Senogles (Beef Wellington)
Group ‘C' ,
1, Jeanette Weatherall (Poppy);
2, Judie O'Neill (Ria);
3, Fiona Russell (Glenfaba Milly).
Test 36 ,
1, Paula Harwood (Claudia Ormonde).
Test 49 ,
1, Carly Letch (Rihanna);
2, Paula Harwood (Claudia Ormonde).
Test 71 ,
1, Carly Letch (Rihanna).
GGH WINTER DRESSAGE
17/11/11
The informal mid-week dressage events at GGH Equitation Centre serve many purposes, but at this time of year, with the unsettled weather, they also provide the opportunity for riders to school in a sheltered, dry environment, with that little bit of extra atmosphere. On Thursday 17th November Vicky Fleming and Cheryl Curphey were the judges, who judged a variety of competitors.
In the midday session there were many familiar faces jostling for the top place. Helen Squires on The Prophet took one preliminary class with a high percentage, but was beaten into second place in the next class by Cherie Wilde on African Diamond, with an even higher percentage.
The evening entries were dominated by the young riders, whose standard of performance continues to improve with practice. Not many marks separated them, but Nicole Andrews on Bailey Spirit was joined in the ‘winners enclosure' by the Loader Sisters, Daisy on Tyler and Jessica on Wortley Orlando.
The last of this series is on December 1st and then there is a break until the end of February.
Results:
Intro ‘B'
Group ‘A' ,
1, Daisy Loader (Tyler);
2, Abby Jackson (Calypso);
3, Connie McKee (Monster Munch).
Group ‘B' ,
1, Emma Senogles (Beef Wellington).
Test 1 ,
Group ‘A' ,
1, Jessica Loader (Wortley Orlando);
2, Olivia O'Neill (Teasle High Flyer).
Group ‘D' ,
1, Helen Squires (The Prophet);
2, Jeanette Weatherall (Poppy);
3, Rowan Caley (Grianagh Bernard).
Test 7 ,
Group ‘A' ,
1, Freya Cullen (Get Jiggy With It).
Group ‘B' ,
1, Cherie Wilde (African Diamond);
2, Helen Squires (The Prophet);
3, Fiona Russell (Glenfaba Milly).
Group ‘C' ,
1, Christine Robinson (Grianagh Pendragon).
Test 20 ,
1, Carole Stott (Fairwood Nickle).
Test 27 ,
1, Amy Senogles (Bimbo).
GGH WINTER SHOW JUMPING
06/11/11
A busy day, with bright sunshine, helped to keep the larger than usual number of entries happy and smiling. The second round of the Indoor Showjumping Series sponsored by Malcolm Jones Ltd and Mylchreests Mitsubishi gathered in more new entries at every level.
The usual band of judges – Emma Kennaugh and Jo Brackett – writers and most especially stewards, kept the day running smoothly. Jenifer Gilbey caused some excitement near the end of the day when she put the jumps up twice in one class, but with a smile all was resolved!
Two young lead rein riders, Josh Dudley and Connie McKee, set the tone for the day with very close times to take the first two places in Tadpoles A, while Abby Jackson won Tadpoles B with a beautifully ridden ride on her pony Calypso.
The large entries in the other junior classes produced many double clear rounds and fast times with Charlotte Craine and Keltic Connections winning the Intermediate and Cubhunter Classes while Anna Harding on Irish Mist rode a balanced round to win the Advanced Intermediate.
In the afternoon it was the turn of the adults, and Melissa Gerard on The Last Rolo gave a very fine display of what can be achieved with very poor eyesight and complete trust in her horse. Lianne McKee, having run around with her daughter on the lead rein in the morning, rode a very fast round to win the Intermediate on George. The places in the higher classes were equally shared out, with some well ridden rounds, but no one combination dominating.
After a very busy half term at GGH Equitation Centre, there was a slightly smaller entry in the Dressage on Wednesday 2 nd November. However, this provided the ideal opportunity for three new writers to learn their skills, with the help of the three judges: Michelle Osborn, Jenifer Gilbey and Rhona Bond. These informal competitions provide the ideal environment for horses, riders, judges and writers to gain the valuable experience to progress to the next level.
Judie O'Neill produced some of her best percentages of the year on Ria to win the two preliminary classes. Katy Robinson on her attractive coloured pony, Throwing A Paddy, was close behind Gill Shacklock on Dance Forever in the novice class, while Emma Senogles on her coloured cob, Beef Wellington, produced two good results in the lower level classes.
In the evening it was very encouraging to have several young riders competing and showing a really good understanding of how to ride a test. Several have moved up a level from last season with Tinesha Kinley and Freya Cullen winning a preliminary class each, while Rowan Caley on Grianagh Bernard won the adult preliminary class, showing a much improved way of going to last season.
Intro ‘A' ,
Group ‘A',
1, Maddison Haxby (Gladiator);
2, Immy Millward (Allanagh Eriska );
3, Abby Jackson (Calypso).
Group ‘B',
1, Breeshey Bond (Geoff).
Group ‘C',
1
, Emma Senogles (Beef Wellington);
2, Katy Robinson (El Manx Senorita).
Test 4 ,
Group ‘A',
1, Tinesha Kinley (Untouchable).
Group ‘C',
1, Judie O'Neill (Ria);
2, Emma Senogles (Beef Wellington);
3, Jeanette Weatherall (Poppy).
Group ‘D',
1, Rowan Caley (Grianagh Bernard);
2, Lizzie Lennon (Miljah);
3, Christine Robinson (Grianagh Pendragon).
Test 12 ,
Group ‘A',
1, Freya Cullen (Get Jiggy With It).
Group ‘B',
1, Jodie Arden (Emerald Leona).
Group ‘C',
1, Judie O'Neill (Ria);
2, Jeanette Weatherall (Poppy);
3, Ann Flynn (Athen Rye).
Test 24 ,
Group ‘A',
1, Jodie Arden (Emerald Leon ).
Group ‘B',
1, Amy Senogles (Bimbo).
Test 28
1, Gill Shacklock (Dance Forever);
2, Katy Robinson (Throwing A Paddy).
GGH WINTER SHOW JUMPING
16/10/11
Large entries turned up for the Showjumping at GGH Equitation Centre on Sunday 16th October. It was lovely to have a fine day for the start of the Indoor Jumping Season at GGH: the judges Emma Kennaugh and Jo Brackett really appreciated the warm spell, as it can be very cold sometimes.
There were several new faces in the Tadpole Classes, designed to help the very tiny riders start their jumping careers, although there is also space for first time older competitors or young animals to try their luck. Olivia O'Neill had a really good start to the season on Teasle High Flyer to take a first and second place.
Two young riders from last seasons Tadpole classes took a step up successfully – Daisy Loader on Tyler coming second in the Novice Rider Class, while Percy Hampton won the novice pony class on his new mount, Monty – well done! Abi Turner-Drewry performed a double clear in the Intermediate on her new young pony, Aclare Cracker, while Annabel Ackers on Garfield showed she hasn't been wasting the summer months, by producing a much improved performance.
There were large entries in the adult classes with new combinations doing well. Melissa Gerard rode four clear rounds on a new ride; The Last Rolo, to win the Novice Rider and Novice Horse Class, while Rebecca Sowerby on her young horse, Galatea, also rode four clear rounds in the Intermediate and Forage Stakes, but just missed out on places against some very competitive rounds.
In the Forage Stakes the top three riders were so close in time that only half a minute separated them in a very exciting jump off, won by Michelle Crellin on Blue Rock, who went on to win the next two classes.
GGH are once again indebted to the joint sponsors for the season: Malcolm Jones Ltd and Mylchreest Mitsubishi. It is really encouraging for the Competitors to know that the prize money the sponsors provide is there to reward them for points gained during the season provided they have competed in at least four of the qualifying rounds.
Juniors
Tadpoles ‘A ',
1, Abbi Jackson (Calypso);
2, Olivia O'Neill (Teasle High Flyer);
3, Eva Jones (Mosswood Holly Berry ).
Tadpoles ‘B' ,
1, Olivia O'Neill (Teasle High Flyer);
2, Abbi Jackson (Calypso);
3, Percy Hampton (Ballawhetstone Galaxy).
Novice Rider ,
1, Melissa Gerard (The Last Rolo);
2, Stella Hampton (Commanche Razor Light);
3, Amy Senogles (Constellation Connor).
Novice Horse ,
1, Melissa Gerard (The Last Rolo); 2, Rowena Kelly (Rosehill Rockstar);
3, Carole Stott (Fairwood Nickle).
Intermediate ,
1, Rowena Kelly (Rosehill Rockstar);
2, Alma Darville (Mannanin);
3, Rachel Kelly (Conrhenny Rhonda).
Forage Stakes ,
1, Michelle Crellin (Blue Rock);
2, Fran Hunt (Prince Rehab II);
3, Paula Harwood (Claudia Ormonde).
Cubhunter ,
1, Michelle Crellin (Blue Rock);
2, Natalie Wood (The Lightening Man);
3, Kevin Drewry (O'Riley).
Open ,
1, Michelle Crellin (Blue Rock).
GGH WINTER DRESSAGE
12/10/11
It was a busy day again at GGH Equitation Centre on Wednesday 12th October, when the first of the Indoor Winter Dressage Series was held. In addition to heralding the start of another year of competition, the annual trophies based on the results of the previous twelve months Dressage Events at GGH were presented to both adult and junior riders.
Nicole Andrews, a junior competitor, won the Viking Trophy for consistent achievement on her lovely pony Bailey Spirit. She consolidated this result by winning her class on Wednesday, though closely challenged by Alex Henthorn on Bobby Dazzler, just two marks behind.
The Mann Crane Hire Trophy for the junior rider showing the most improvement during the year was awarded to Jessica Loader. Like many young riders she is actively involved in other sports, so was unable to attend the presentation as she was playing hockey.
Karen Higgins on her horse, Conrhenny Trophy, had an excellent season after her horse was laid off with injury for nearly a year. She won the Shimmin Trophy for achievement. Rebecca Sowerby is a fine example of persistence with her young horse, Galatea, which was very green at the start of the season, but has improved steadily and moved up a level, to take the Albion Trophy for improvement.
It was good to see both young and older riders making their first appearance – maybe they have their eyes on the trophies in twelve months time. Sue Kirkpatrick, Jenifer Gilbey and Pat Purvis were the Judges for the day. Stella Hampton on her young horse Commanche Razor Light took first place in the largest class with the best percentage of the day.
Intro ‘B'
Group ‘A' ,
1, Abbi Jackson (Calypso);
2, Sophie Hawley (Ty Golau Crusader);
3, Hannah Geoghegan (K.C.).
Group ‘B' ,
1, Emma Senogles (Beef Wellington);
2, Chris Chatel (Millicent II);
3, Katy Robinson (El Manx Senorita).
Group ‘C' ,
1, Charlotte Geoghegan (Dino).
Test 1 ,
Group ‘A' ,
1, Nicole Andrews (Bailey Spirit);
2, Alex Henthorn (Bobby Dazzler);
3, Courtney Jones (Midnight).
Group ‘B' ,
1, Charlotte Shimmin (Conrhenny Treasure).
Group ‘C' ,
1, Stella Hampton (Commanche Razor Light);
2, Jennifer Kewley-Draskau (Rusty);
3, Fiona Lace (Grianagh Haakon).
Test 10 ,
Group ‘A' ,
1, Freya Cullen (Get Jiggy With It);
2, Callum Staley (Midnight Mystery);
3, Alex Henthorn (Bobby Dazzler).
Group ‘B' ,
1, Holly Low (Moss);
2, Charlotte Shimmin (Conrhenny Treasure).
Test 24 ,
Group ‘A' ,
1, Paula Harwood (Claudia Ormonde);
2, Jane Upsdell (Captain Bountiful).
Group ‘B' ,
1, Karen Higgins (Conrhenny Trophy).
Test 44 ,
1, James McGivern (Nimrod 1).
GGH LATE SUMMER DRESSAGE
21/09/11
Jane Upsdell took a break from competing on Wednesday 21 st September to judge the last of the summer dressage events at GGH Equitation centre. Her Mother, Anne Quigley, judged the evening session to wind up a busy day, and indeed a busy summer season.
As usual there was a good mix of entries, with this informal event once again attracting young horses. Chris McFee won the Intro A Class on a lovely young four year old, Gus, with a very promising percentage. Another young horse making a return to competitions after a summer break was Aggie Crapper's ‘Champagne Charlie', winning two novice classes with a well balanced performance.
Fiona Lace had a busy day riding two horses in two tests each, taking a first and second place on her own; ‘Millicent II' and a joint third on her sister's ‘Grianagh Haakon', while Jennifer Kewley-Draskau made the long journey from the North of the Island to take two places on her steadily improving ‘Rusty'.
The evening classes had a slightly smaller entry but with a very good general standard of performance. The short autumn series starts on Wednesday 12 th October, when the Annual Trophies will be awarded.
Intro ‘A'
Group ‘A',
1, Hannah Geoghan (K.C.);
2, Abbi Jackson (Calypso);
3, Maddison Haxby (Gladiator).
Group ‘B',
1, Chris McFee (Gus);
2, Jennifer Kewley-Draskau (Rusty);
3, Kristy Ashe (Fanny Anne).
Test 4 ,
Group ‘A',
1, Tinesha Kinley (Untouchable).
Group ‘B',
1, Alex Henthorn (Bobby Dazzler).
Group ‘C',
1, Fiona Lace (Millicent II);
2, Jennifer Kewley-Draskau (Rusty),
=3, Fiona Lace (Grianagh Haakon);
=3, Judie O'Neill (Ria).
Test 13 ,
Group ‘A',
1, Callum Staley (Midnight Mystery).
Group ‘B',
1, Alex Henthorn (Bobby Dazzler),
Group ‘C',
1, Katy Robinson (Throwing A Paddy);
2, Fiona Lace (Millicent II);
3, Carole Stott (Fairwood Nickle).
Test 24 ,
Group ‘A'.
1, Aggie Crapper (Champagne Charlie);
2, Katy Robinson (Throwing A Paddy).
Group ‘B',
1, Karen Higgins (Conrhenny Trophy).
Test 27 ,
Group ‘A',
1, Aggie Crapper (Champagne Charlie).
The Informal Dressage, sponsored this summer by Green Mann Bedding, on Wednesday 7 th September, landed right in the middle of a very windy, unsettled period. Although the evening turned out to be very wet, the daytime Competitors actually had some pretty reasonable weather.
Suzanne Corlett judge the morning session, with a mix of levels from Intro to Elementary. Aggie Crapper has progressed her lovely young horse, Enrico, and is gaining valuable test practice at these informal competitions. Another rider doing well on a young horse is Jane Upsdell on her lovely coloured cob, Captain Bountiful.
Vicky Henthorn judged the shorter evening session and all but one Competitor braved the wet evening where Beef Wellington, ridden by Emma Senogles continued to show a steady improvement to win Test 7. With most young riders on their first day back at school, junior entries were down, but Freya Cullen rode two competent tests to gain two first places.
The last in this series will be held on Wednesday 21 st September, and then the late Autumn series starts in October. At the first of these competitions on Wednesday 12 th October, the annual trophies for improvement and achievement will be presented.
Intro ‘B' ,
Group ‘A',
1, Robert Thomson (Beckhouse Black Bailey).
Group ‘B',
1, Abby Jackson (Calypso).
Test 7 ,
Group ‘A', 1, Jenny Moore (Stella);
2, Robert Thomson (Beckhouse Black Bailey);
3, Ann Flynn (Athen Rye).
Group ‘B',
1, Emma Senogles (Beef Wellington);
2, Jeanette Weatherall (Poppy).
Test 12 ,
Group ‘A',
1, Freya Cullen (Get Jiggy With It).
Summer went out with a bang at GGH Equitation Centre on Tuesday 30 th August, on another of their informal dressage days sponsored by Green Mann Bedding. With a large entry, it was another long day, but a day of highs and lows, with some very respectable percentages reflecting the general improvement in the way of going of many of the competitors.
Once again there were new faces: two tiny competitors in the Intro Class, with young Ella Fargher on Jake going home with a third prize. But the star of the day was an adult newcomer; Tanya Kaighan. She celebrated her 18 th birthday by winning two classes on her first outing. Her lovely horse, Diamond Lil, was by Grianagh Maestro. He died last year in his twenties, but had a successful dressage career on and off the Island .
Once again it was really good to watch some of the young horses improving with the opportunity of regular competitions. Rebecca Sowerby on Galatea has improved steadily throughout the summer, and completed two very good tests in strong competition.
Intro ‘A' ,
Group ‘A',
1, Immy Millward (Clypso);
2, Connie McKee (Monster Munch);
3, Ella Fargher (Jake).
Group ‘B',
1, Holly Low (Moss).
Group ‘C',
1, David Creasy (Josh).
Group ‘D',
1, Tanya Kaighan (Diamond Lil);
2, Kristy Ashe (Fanny Anne);
3, Becca Scott (Rhen).
Test 7 ,
Group ‘A',
1, Molly Fraser (Diamond Geezer).
Group ‘B',
1, Holly Low (Moss).
Group ‘C',
1, Nicola Creasy (Josh).
Group ‘D'
1, Tanya Kaighan (Diamond Lil);
2, Sue Sayle (Grianagh Pendragon);
3, Rowena Kelly (Rosehill Rockstar).
Test 10 ,
Group ‘A',
1, Nicole Andrews (Bailey Spirit).
Group ‘D',
1, Claire Bagshaw (John Henry);
2, Jane Watney (Tommi);
3, Amy Senogles (Bimbo).
Test 24 ,
Group ‘A',
1, Natalie Pell (‘Q' Blue Cascade);
2, Jane Upsdell (Captain Bountiful).
Group ‘B',
1, Claire Bagshaw (John Henry);
2, Jane Watney (Tommi).
Test 30 ,
1, Jane Upsdell (Captain Bountiful);
2, Janthia Taylor (Cherokee Gemini).
Test 44 ,
1, Janthia Taylor (Cherokee Gemini).
GGH HARVEST DRESSAGE
20/08/11
With two arenas busy at the start of the day at GGH Equitation Centre on Saturday 20 th August, the two visiting judges, Annette Scott and Beth Franz enjoyed a sunny morning. The Harvest Dressage Competition has been running for many years now, with many of the classes having an unusual format: the competitors ride two classes at their chosen level, with the scores being added together and a trophy to be won by each winner.
The large preliminary class was won by Abby Corlett on Conrhenny Elypsis with both judges placing her top of each section: in fact there was a noted consistency in the percentages achieved by the top placings in this class, with another Conrhenny bred horse coming second; Vicky Hargreaves riding Conrhenny Isabella.
With a larger Elementary Class than usual, the top three competitors were only separated by three marks: Carly Letch, Sue Kirkpatrick and Bianca Kinrade had exactly the same marks in their second test, but Carly on Rihanna had a high mark in the first class to finish first over all.
Both Carly and Rowan Caley have had a lot of success recently on the mainland, and Rowan had a high mark in her Paralympic Championship test, and we all wish her the best as she heads off shortly to the British Dressage Summer Championships.
There was also a range of affiliated classes, with a larger than usual entry in the Elementary Class, with the top three tying for first place. There was also a special prize for the highest percentage gained by a rider of 40 years or over, which Sue Kirkpatrick on her attractive horse, Corando won: a lovely pair of riding gloves.
Green Mann Bedding helped the event with some sponsorship this year: it is always expensive bringing judges over from the mainland, but the competitors always appreciate the time and effort put in: it usually means the judges have to give a whole weekend of their time: a big thank you to all.
Preliminary Affiliated ,
1, Dawn Stanton (Motivado).
It was an exciting day at GGH Equitation Centre on Tuesday 9 th August. As the start time in late morning approached, the wind got really strong, but Aggie Crapper on her young horse Enrico rode on as if nothing was happening: in a nearby field a bale of hay took off at high speed, and although her horse didn't see it she had to stop her test for a while, while two galloping horses were brought in from the field – Aggie rode on!
Luckily the wind dropped as the day progressed and it was still lovely at 9pm when everyone went home. Four judges kept the busy day running smoothly: Jenifer Gilbey, Pat Purvis, Vicky Henthorn and Angela Kennedy, helped by a team of writers.
One of the really rewarding effects of these days is watching young or inexperienced riders and horses gain in confidence, and move onto a higher level. Robert Thompson and Lynn Mitchell both moved up to produce very respectable tests at the next level. Freya Cullen, who has recently changed to a bigger pony, Get Jiggy With It, achieved the highest percentage of the day and won two classes.
Intro ‘B' ,
Group ‘ A'
1, Courtney Jones (Midnight);
2, Daisy Loader (Tyler);
3, Daisy Loader (Wortley Orlando).
Group ‘B',
1, Holly Low (Northlodge Moss);
2, Jennifer Kewley-Draskau (Rusty);
3, Robert Thompson (Beckhouse Black Bailey).
Test ‘10' ,
Group ‘A',
1, Freya Cullen (Get Jiggy With It);
2, Jessica Loader (Wortley Orlando);
3, Nicole Andrews (Bailey Spirit).
Group ‘B',
1, Rebecca Norrey (Bean);
2, Judie O'Neill (Ria);
3, Fiona Russell (Glenfaba Milly).
Group ‘C',
1, Rebecca Sowerby (Galatea);
2, Clare Williams (Romeo's Passion);
3, Fiona Lace (Millicent II).
Test 19 ,
Group ‘A',
1, Freya Cullen (Get Jiggy With It).
Group ‘B'.
1, Rebecca Norrey (Bean);
2, Fiona Russell (Glenfaba Milly);
3, Cherie Wilde (African Diamond).
Group ‘C',
1, Ashleigh Owen (Frankie);
2, Jane Watney (Tommi);
3, Fiona Lace (Millicent II).
Test 22 ,
Group ‘A',
1, Janthia Taylor (Cherobee Gemini)/
Group ‘B',
1, Karen Higgins (Conrhenny Trophy);
2, Jane Watney (Tommi).
Test 37 ,
1, Janthia Taylor (Cherobee Gemini).
Test 43 ,
1, Aggie Crapper (Enrico);
2, Jane Watney (Ria).
Test 57 ,
1, Aggie Crapper (Enrico).
GGH SUMMER DRESSAGE
28/07/11
Thursday 28th was a strange day – hot and sunny one minute – cold and windy the next. But the rain stayed away for yet another long day of dressage at GGH Equitation Centre from midday till after 8pm. The two judges Angela Kennedy and Rhona Bond, with the help of their writers, kept the day running smoothly.
There was a good mix of young and older riders, and yet again some new faces. Young Courtney Jones won the Introductory Class with Connie McKee on Monster Munch close second in her first test ever. The middle age groups rode some well balanced tests at several levels with Emily Fleming winning two classes.
In the adult section, Sue Sayle on Grainagh Pendragon just missed being placed in her first ever test. One of the main purposes of these informal days, sponsored by Green Mann Bedding is to encourage less experienced riders to “have a go” – there is a bit of a myth that Dressage is only for the more experienced riders and this is not the case, with classes from the bottom level up to Medium level 1 there is a large variety to choose from. The next day on Tuesday 9 th August will be the last opportunity of the season to compete in the long outside arena at GGH, apart from their big event – The Harvest Dressage – on Saturday 20 th August.
Intro A
Group A
1st Courtney Jones, Midnight
2nd Connie Mckee, Monster Munch
Group B
1st Kaitlynn Arrowsmith, Charlie & the Chocolate Factory
Group C
1st Bethan Pilley,Lalus
2nd Breeshey Bond, The Artful Dodger
Group D
1st Kristy Ashe, Fanny Anne
2nd Jennifer Kewley-Draskau, Rusty
Group E
1st Holly Low, Northlodge Moss
2nd Lynn Mitchell, Whitney
Test 4
GroupA
1st Nicole Andrews, Bailey Spirit
Group B
1st Katie Colman, Tonfa
Group C
1st Bethan Pilley, Lalus
2nd Breeshey Bond, The Artful Dodger
Group D
1st Emma Sayle, Monster Munch
2nd Akira Duncan,Grainagh Sheaynus
Group E
1st Rebecca Sowerby, Galatea
2nd Judy O'Neil, Ria
3rd Heather Quinn, Kilpenny Rose
Group F
1 st Clare Williams, Romeo's Passion
2nd Freya Cullen, Get Jiggy With It
3rd Rebecca Norris, Mr Bean
Test 12
Group A
1st Freya Cullen, Get Jiggy With It
Group B
1st Emily Fleming, Hillendale Sweet William
Group C
1st Nathalie Pell, “Q” Blue Cascade
2nd Fiona Russell, Glenfaba Milly
3rd Jodie O'Neil, Ria
4th Christine Robinson, Grianagh Pendragon
Test 20
Group A
1st Emily Fleming, Hillendale Sweet William
Group B
1st Jane Upsdell, Captain Bountiful
2nd Fiona Russell, Glanfaba Milly
Test 37
Group A
1st Hebe Williamson, Lacklyle Maverick
Group B
1st Jane Upsdell, Captain Bountiful
Test 43
Group A
1st Hebe Williamson, Lacklyle Maverick
Group B
1st Aggie Crapper, Enrico
Test 53
1st Aggie Crapper, Enrico
GGH SUMMER DRESSAGE
04/07/11
The first of the late summer informal dressage events was held at GGH Equitation Centre, on Monday 4th July on what must have been very nearly the hottest day of the year. Green Mann Bedding are sponsoring these events this year, and most of the riders on Monday were in their shirt sleeves.
It was a relief for the two judges, Suzanne Corlett and Sue Kirkpatrick and their writers not to be sitting shivering. The next day of these informal competitions will be held on Thursday 28 th July, with the usual choice for competitors to ride their tests in the daytime or evening.
Callum Staley and James McGivern, two lads competing amongst a sea of girls, produced the highest percentages of the day: James' two tests were a higher level, so it was quite an achievement.
One of the newcomers to the sport, Chloe Duchars on The Weatherman also set herself a high target to follow at future events – a great start.
Results: Intro ‘B' ,
Group A ,
1, Kristy Ashe (Fanny Anne).
Group B ,
1, Lou Angus (Miss Bean);
2, Lynn Mitchell (Whitney).
Test 1, Group ‘A' ,
1, Freya Cullen (Get Jiggy With It);
2, Nicole Andrews (Bailey's Spirit).
Group ‘B' ,
1, Alex Henthorn (Bobby Dazzler).
Group ‘C' ,
1, Kristy Ashe (Fanny Anne).
Group ‘D' ,
1, Clare Williams (Romeo's Passion).
Test 10
Group ‘A' ,
1, Callum Staley (Midnight Mystery);
2, Freya Cullen (Get Jiggy With It).
Group ‘E' ,
1, Emma Senogles (Beef Wellington);
2, Jeanette Weatheral (Poppy);
3, Chloe Duchars (The Weatherman).
Test 20 ,
Group ‘A' ,
1, Karen Higgins (Conrhenny Trophy);
2, Carole Stott (Fairwood Nickle).
Group ‘B' ,
1, Amy Senogles (Bimbo).
Test 22 ,
Group ‘A',
1,
Karen Higgins (Conrhenny Trophy).
Group ‘B' ,
1, Jodie Ardern (Emerald Leona)..
Group ‘ C',
1, Bianca Kinrade (Action Hero).
Test 40 ,
1, James McGivern (Nimrod).
Test 43 ,
1, James McGivern (Nimrod);
2, Bianca Kinrade (Action Hero).
GGH MIDSUMMER COMBINED TRAINING & DRESSAGE
11/06/11
GGH Equitation Centre have been blessed with fine meetings for nearly all their competitions this year and Saturday 11 th June was no exception when the sun shone all day for their big Annual Dressage and Combined Training Event, once again sponsored by Milan Veterinary Practice.
Dermot and Mary Cannon came over from Ireland to judge all the Dressage Classes while George Osborn ran the Show Jumping Classes and the busy day was kept running smoothly by a large team of writers, scorers and stewards. With the results out promptly, competitors were able to get home soon after competing.
The day kicked off with the pure dressage in the long arena and although the entries for the affiliated classes were small, three riders, Emma Quine on Diamond's Delight, Sue Kirkpatrick on Corando and Cheryl Curphy, all had good percentages and gained points towards qualifying for the Summer Regional Championships. In the unaffiliated classes Carly Letch produced two lovely tests on Strenaby Mannanan to win the two novice classes - well done.
Rowan Caley on her new horse, Anamour, took first place in the Elementary 45 and then rode her paralympic test – she is about to go to the mainland for 10 days to compete in two big paralympic competitions, so judge Dermot Cannon was able to give her some constructive ideas to improve on some of the weaker points of her test, and I am sure that we all wish her every success away.
In the combined training section it was good to see that the jumps caused no serious problems. Abbi Corlett on Captain Bountiful and Jodie Arden on Emerald Leona went on to win their respective classes with clear rounds after producing two high percentage dressage tests.
The next big dressage competition at GGH is the Harvest Dressage on August 20 th , when most competitors ride two tests, the marks are then added together to produce an overall winner. Also there will soon be a new schedule out for another series of midweek informal events.
Affiliated Preliminary ,
1, Sam Leahy (Dowland Demarara);
2, Jane Watney (Zahawk).
The last of the Spring Dressage Series at GGH Equitation Centre, sponsored by Green Mann Bedding, was held on Tuesday 24 th May. It once again proved extremely popular; eight hours of dressage for all ages, and again amongst the regulars, there were new faces. Anne Quigley, Jenifer Gilbey and Rhona Bond were joined by Jane Attree to judge. Along with encouraging new competitors, the purpose of the informal midweek competitions is to train new judges and give them this experience in an informal setting.
Due to popular demand, there will be a Summer Series due to start in July – schedules will be available later in June. Meanwhile the regular Midsummer Combined Training and Dressage Event will be held on Saturday 11th June, with two visiting judges.
Jennifer Kewley-Draskau on Rusty showed how regular competitions can be beneficial by winning the morning Intro A class with an excellent percentage, while Carole Stott also showed a marked improvement, winning Test 15. In the second part of the day, Karen Higgins continued her improved way of going by winning two classes on Conrhenny Trophy, while Callum Staley challenged himself at a higher level again on his relatively new pony – Midnight Mystery.
Test 22 ,
Group ‘A' ,
1, Jane Upsdell (Captain Bountiful);
2, Aggie Crapper (Champagne Charlie);
3, Paula Harwood (Claudia Ormonde).
Group ‘B' ,
1, Jane Watney (Tommi);
2, Amy Senogles (Bimbo).
Test 35 ,
1, Jane Upsdell (Captain Bountiful);
2, Suzie Clague (A1 Courage);
3, Aggie Crapper (Champagne Charlie).
GGH SPRING DRESSAGE
10/05/11
There is quite an atmosphere of competition developing at GGH. They present annual trophies, both Junior and Senior, for both improvement and achievement at the first Autumn Competition. These will be awarded then, the winners chosen after close scrutiny of the results over the previous twelve months, and already some potential winners can be picked out.
These informal events, now sponsored by Green Mann Bedding, are proving increasingly popular, with new faces at each competition, while many of the familiar combinations are going up a level. On Tuesday 10 th May Claire Drewry and Jane Upsdell were kept very busy and enjoyed stretching themselves to judge at a higher level than usual, while the writers kept the day flowing well for eight and a half hours!
In the morning Jennifer Kewley-Draskau achieved some good results on Rusty winning the first class after a break of some years. Natalie Pell's persistence paid off when she won a Novice Class convincingly, on Margie Clucas' pretty home-bred mare ‘Q' Blue Cascade.
With regular competitions there is a definite improvement in the general quality of the tests being ridden and the accuracy of the performances.
The last of the Spring Series will be held in two weeks time: Tuesday 24 th May. There will then be a break before the Summer Series dates are out.
Test Intro ‘A' ,
Group A ,
1, Kaitlin Arrowsmith (Le Bon Bon);
2, Nicole Andrews (Bailey Spirit);
3, Daisy Loader (Wortley Orlando).
Group B ,
1, Emma Sayle (Monster Munch);
2, Akira Duncan (Grianagh Sheaynus).
Group C ,
1, Jennifer Kewley-Draskau (Rusty);
2, Rebecca Norrey (Bean);
3, Lynn Mitchell (Whitney).
Group D ,
1, Janthia Taylor (Hamish).
Test 15,
Group ‘A' ,
1, Freya Cullen (Get Jiggy With It);
2, Jessica Loader (Wortley Orlando).
Group ‘B' ,
1, Julie Macquillan (Owen Gold Arrow);
2, Jenny Moore (Stella);
3, Carole Stott (Fairwood Nickle)
Group ‘C' ,
1, Fiona Lace (Millicent II);
2, Karen Higgins (Conrhenny Trophy);
3, Jane Watney (Tommi).
Test 19 ,
Group ‘A' ,
1, Jenny Moore (Stella);
2, Julie Macquillan (Owen Golden Arrow);
3, Judie O'Neill (Ria).
Test 22 ,
Group ‘A' ,
1, Natalie Pell (‘Q' Blue Cascade);
2, Suzi Bregazzi (Sartouse Sunshine);
3, Paula Dowson (Fortune Teller).
Group ‘B' ,
1, Jane Watney (Tommi).
Test 37 ,
1, Zara Barton (Sarthouse Sunshine).
GGH SPRING DRESSAGE
27/04/11
What a marathon for the midweek dressage event at GGH Equitation Centre on Wednesday 27th April, sponsored by Green Mann Bedding.
Nine and a half hours non-stop! Sandwiched between two Bank Holidays, the entries were larger than usual for these informal events, and the two judges, Suzanne Corlett and Angela Kennedy and their writers were kept very busy.
With six classes, from an Intro Test to Advanced, a large range of levels was covered during the day, but the lower levels continue to attract the most entries, and yet new faces to the sport. Sisters Nicole and Holly Low, shared the ride on Moss, and for their first competition set themselves a high standard with percentages in the mid sixties.
Once again there were some really good tests ridden, especially at Elementary Level, when Aggie Crapper on Rico, James McGivern on Nimrod and Sally Muirhead on Grianagh Buzz were only a few marks apart, up to seventy per cent. With the longer evenings it has been possible to fit in some classes at the higher level in the long outdoor arena, as well as the ever popular lower level range, in the indoor arena.
Test 10 ,
Group A ,
=1, Jessica Loader (Wortley Orlando);
=1, Freya Cullen (Get Jiggy with It);
3, Rebecca Storrie (Bailey Midnight Dash).
Group ‘B' ,
1, Sophie Anderson (Rotlems Royal Chenel).
Group ‘C' ,
1, Christine Robinson (Grianagh Pendragon);
2, Emma Sengoles (Beef Wellington);
3, Megan Carruthers (Quite Frankly Ballavartyn).
Group ‘D ' ,
1, Karen Higgins (Conrhenny Trophy);
2, Judie O'Neill (Ria);
3, Helen Squires (The Prophet).
Test 15 ,
Group ‘A' ,
1, Callum Staley (Midnight Mystery).
Group ‘B' ,
1, Jane Watney (Tommi).
Group ‘C' ,
1, Jane Upsdell (Captain Bountiful);
2, Susie Clague (Berti);
3, Karen Higgins (Conrhenny Trophy).
Test 22 ,
Group ‘A' ,
1, Jane Watney (Tommi).
Group ‘B' ,
1, Jane Upsdell (Captain Bountiful);
2, Jo Copley (Bourneville Lad);
3, Jodie Hazell (Mr Darcy).
Test 35 ,
1, Jo Copley (Bourneville Lad).
Test 40 ,
1, Aggie Crapper (Rico);
2, Sallly Muirhead (Grianagh Buzz);
3, James McGivern (Nimrod).
Test 43 ,
1, Aggie Crapper (Rico);
2, James McGivern (Nimrod);
3, Sally Muirhead (Grianagh Buzz).
Test 61 ,
1, Zara Barton (Liron);
2, Zara Barton (Van Gogh).
Test 64 ,
1, Zara Barton (Liron);
2, Zara Barton (Van Gogh).
GGH SPRING DRESSAGE
12/04/11
Tuesday 12 th April was perfect weather for one of the informal dressage competitions at GGH Equitation Centre, and it was definitely ‘Boys Day': what they lacked in numbers – two – they made up for in quality. In the afternoon Callum Staley on Midnight Mystery set the tone by getting 70% in addition to a very creditable percentage for his first try in the long arena.
Then in the evening session James McGivern on Nimrod rode two lovely tests, getting over 70% for one. This wound up a busy day, with large entries keeping the two judges, Angela Kennedy and Kelly Matthews and their writers very busy. Christine Robinson had a successful day taking a first place on Grianagh Pendragon, and later in the day a third place on Grianagh Sheaynus, where only three marks separated the first three places.
These informal events, sponsored by Green Mann Ltd, are proving very popular, and over the next couple of months provide the opportunity to compete in the long outdoor arena at a more advanced level to challenge the more ambitious Competitors.
The next event in the series will be held on Wednesday 27th April, with classes up to Medium Level.
Test 14 ,
Group ‘A' ,
1, Callum Staley (Midnight Mystery).
Group ‘B' ,
1, Karen Higgins (Conrhenny Trophy);
2, Natalie Pell (‘A' Blue Cascade);
3, Fiona Russell (Glenfaba Milly).
Group ‘C' ,
1, Emma Senogles (Beef Wellington);
2, Fiona Lace (Millicent II).
Test 15 ,
Group ‘A' ,
1, Callum Staley (Midnight Mystery).
Group ‘B' ,
1, Natalie Pell (‘Q' Blue Cascade);
=2, Judie O'Neill (Ria);
=2, Karen Higgins (Conrhenny Trophy).
Group ‘C' ,
1, James McGivern (Nimrod);
2, Jane Watley (Tommi).
Test 22 ,
Group ‘A' ,
1, Aggie Crapper (Enrico);
2, Jane Upsdell (Captain Bountiful).
Group ‘B' ,
1, James McGivern (Nimrod).
GGH SHOWJUMPING
03/04/11
Final places in the GGH Indoor Showjumping Winter Series were hotly contested, especially in the Junior Classes. David Mylchreest for Mylchreests Mitsubishi was there for part of the morning and was able to present a trophy to his daughter, Emily, riding Murphy's Magic. The other sponsor to once again sponsor this series was Malcolm Jones Ltd, and the two judges, Emma Kennaugh and Jo Brackett, have all supported these monthly competitions.
There were two qualifying rounds in January as the December event had to be postponed because of the snow. Several of the second placed competitors won trophies on Sunday 3 rd April as the class winners had not qualified (i.e. competed in at least four of the six qualifying rounds).
In the Tadpole Classes Abby Jackson on Poppy and Percy Hampton on Donkey Boy continued their fierce rivalry, but while Abby won Tadpoles ‘A', one of the youngest riders, Eva Jones on Mosswood Holly Berry, snatched victory in the ‘B' Class to win. In the Novice Rider class the less experienced Tinesha Kinley on Monster Munch came a close third to two slightly more experienced riders.
The Most Improved Tadpole Trophy went to Elle Cain on Twinklebell, while Jessica Loader took the Most Improved Novice Rider Trophy, having worked hard on her cheeky pony, Wortley Orlando, who tried on many occasions to buck her off. Annabel Ackers rounded off a successful season on her pony, Garfield , winning the Cubhunter and Open Trophies.
There was a much smaller entry in the afternoon for the adult classes, but there were some competently ridden rounds. New to competition this season, Chloe Duchars had a disappointing time in the Novice Rider Class, but won the Most Improved Novice Rider Trophy on The Weatherman. Emma Senogles has had a busy season on her two lovely cobs, Beef Wellington and Ben Hur, rounding it off by winning the Novice Horse Trophy on ‘Ben' and the Intermediate on ‘Wellie'.
Juliette Tranter had a clean sweep on her two horses, Nitron X and Orlando, in the points gained for the season in the three more advanced classes, and took two trophies on Nitron X.
The informal Summer Showjumping Series starts outdoors on Sunday 24 th April. These events were held midweek last year, but are being held at weekends and Tynwald Day this year. There will also be half an hour at the start for clear rounds. Each class has a separate sponsor to enable prize money for each qualifying round.
Juniors
Tadpoles ‘A' ,
Trophy & 1st, Abby Jackson (Poppy);
2nd, Daisy Loader (Tyler);
3rd Eva Jones (Mosswood Holly Berry).
Points : 1st, Abbey Jackson (Poppy);
2nd, Percy Hampton (Donkey Boy);
3rd, Elle Cain (Twinklebell).
Tadpoles ‘B' ,
Trophy & 1st, Eva Jones (Mosswood Holly Berry);
2nd, Percy Hampton (Donkey Boy);
3rd, Abby Jackson (Poppy).
Points : =1st Juliette Tranter (Nitron X and Orlando).
GGH DRESSAGE
28/03/11
At GGH Equitation Centre on Monday 28th there were the usual two sessions of classes: daytime and early evening. This mix enables competitors to pick an approximate time to suite them, and younger riders to come along after school. It was very encouraging to see a number of these younger competitors having their first try at riding a dressage test
With good scores all day, although these midweek competitions are kept informal, the general standard continues to improve, with three young riders achieving excellent percentages: Natalie Wood on her new pony, Jake; Callum Staley on his fairly new pony, Midnight Mystery – he shows a continuing improvement, and Jodie Arden on Lady, riding her first dressage test.
In the adult classes there was the usual mix of young horses, less experienced riders and those competitors who enjoyed a regular outing. It is an exciting time for the new sponsors, Green Mann Bedding Ltd, to become involved with a sport which is obviously very healthy at the grass roots.
The Judges, Sue Kirkpatrick and Tricia Kissack, kept both sessions running smoothly and the next day in the series will be on Tuesday 12th April when two of the tests will be held in the outdoor arena, to enable competitors to prepare for the summer season.
Test Intro ‘B' ,
Group ‘A'
1, Robert Thomson (Beckhouse Black Bailey).
Group ‘B'
1, Sophie Anderson (Chanel);
2, Megan Carruthers (Quite Frankley Ballavartyn).
Test 24 ,
1, Natalie Pell (‘Q' Blue Cascade);
2, Paula Harwood (Claudia Ormonde).
Test 28 ,
1, Karen Higgins (Conrhenny Trophy).
GGH DRESSAGE
16/03/11
The informal dressage events are delighted to have a sponsor: it is expected that this will benefit the sponsor, Green Mann Bedding Ltd, and GGH Equitation Centre. There was another informal dressage day on Wednesday 16 th March. There was the usual mix of new young horses and some more experienced combinations enjoying the early spring weather.
Anne Quigley, Helen Elms and Juliet Tranter all took a turn judging and keeping the event running smoothly. Sam Leahy brought her young horse out for his first glimpse of spooky mirrors; Dowland Matisse behaved very well. Vicky Henthorn pinched her son's pony while he was at school and won her two classes.
Some of the best percentages of the day were achieved by two junior riders; Anna Harding on Irish Mist, and Alice Bowen on Greenday, and Amy Senogles on her lovely coloured horse, Bimbo, was delighted with the improvement he is showing.
The next event in the series will be on Monday 28 th April.
Intro ‘A' ,
Group ‘A'
1, Abigale Turner-Drewry (Grianagh Vida);
2, Anna Harding (Irish Mist).
Group ‘B'
1, Sam Leahy (Dowland Matisse).
Test 4 ,
1, Anna Harding (Irish Mist);
2, Alice Bowen (Greenday).
Test 12,
Group ‘A'
1, Callum Staley (Midnight Mystery).
Group ‘B'
1, Alice Bowen (Greenday).
Group ‘C',
1, Vicky Henthorn (Bobby Dazzler);
2, Fiona Russell (Glenfaba Milly);
3, Kelly Matthews (Mouse).
Test 20 ,
Group ‘A'
1, Vicky Henthorn (Bobby Dazzler);
2, Karen Higgins (Conrhenny Trophy);
3, Kelly Matthews (Mouse).
Group ‘B',
1,
Sam Leahy (Dowland Demerara).
Test 28 ,
Group ‘A',
1, Karen Higgins (Conrhenny Trophy).
Group ‘B',
1, Amy Senogles (Bimbo);
2, Sam Leahy (Dowland Demerara).
GGH SHOWJUMPING
06/03/11
Sunday 6 th March was the final opportunity for competitors to qualify for the Indoor Showjumping Series at GGH Equitation Centre. Only those qualified will be eligible for the prize money and trophies on the Championship Day on 3 rd April: those not qualified can also take part, but if placed will just get a rosette. It is through the generosity of the joint sponsors, Mylchreests Mitsubishi and Malcolm Jones Ltd, that there is the prize money available for those gaining the most points during the winter season.
The regular judges, Emma Kennaugh and Jo Brackett, kept Sunday running smoothly from the judge's box and both should also be there on the Championship Day. There is then only a short beak before the Summer Showjumping Series on Easter Sunday. This is held outdoors, is very informal and, this year, some of the rounds will be held at weekends.
In the juniors Shay Marsden had a good morning riding Briar to take a first and second place, while Anna Harding on her attractive grey pony Irish Mist X, won two classes with fast times. As the jumps got bigger it was Callum Staley on his new pony, Midnight Mystery, who showed he is going to be a force to be reckoned with, taking a first and second place.
Callum's sister Kirree rode two polished, fast clear rounds to take the higher classes for adults in the afternoon, on Pretty Boy.
Juniors -
Tadpoles ‘A',
1, Elle Cain (Twinklebell);
2, Abby Jackson (Poppy);
3, Daisy Loader (Tyler).
Tadpoles ‘B',
1, Abby Jackson (Poppy);
2, Daisy Loader (Tyler);
3, Eva Jones (Mosswood Holly Berry).
The beginning of March turned out to be an appropriate week to start the Informal Spring Dressage Series at GGH Equitation Centre on Thursday 3 rd March. There was a real feel of Spring in the air; a beautiful sunny day and early daffodils peeping through.
These informal events throughout the year held on weekdays now have a sponsor, which the organisers are very grateful to, as it helps to defray the costs. Green Mann Bedding (greenmannbedding.com) produce chopped up cardboard as alternative bedding for your horses.
It has been a long, cold, wet winter for horse owners, but hopefully with a full calendar of events scheduled all over the Island , everyone will get going again. Several riders of all ages took part in the informal dressage last Thursday, producing some very consistent tests, with no large difference in their marks.
The successful running of these events depends on the many hours that judges and writers are prepared to give to the sport, and thanks are due to the judges of this event, Jane Upsdell, Pat Purvis and Rhona Bond, and their writers Gail, Kelly and Pat. The next event in this series will beheld on Wednesday 16 th March.
The postponed December Showjumping at GGH Equitation Centre was finally held on Sunday 23rd January. Sponsored by Malcolm Jones Ltd and Mylchreests Mitsubishi – Mylchreests have just celebrated 50 years in business, with the family still at the helm, it seems appropriate that these family businesses should sponsor the GGH Indoor Showjumping Series – another family run concern.
With the season now over half way through, there is particular excitement amongst the younger competitors who are trying really hard to gain points towards the Championship awards. The tiny riders in the Tadpole Section are very competitive and can really cut the corners and do tight turns on their small ponies, with three different riders competing hard for points this week: Daisy Loader, Elle Cain and Sophie Taylor: Percy Hampton and Abby Jackson may not have it all their own way for much longer.
Annabel Ackers on Garfield and Megan Kaneen on Wizzadora fought hard for places in two of the other junior classes with some fast rounds. While Hebe Williamson on Lacklye Maverick followed adult rider Juliet Tranter's lead of completing a beautiful round in only a headcollar – no bridle!
With a lot on over the weekend the senior entries were small, but a bigger entry is expected on the 6 th February, for the next Indoor Showjumping Event at GGH.
Juniors - Tadpoles ‘A',
1, Percy Hampton (Donkey Boy);
2, Abby Jackson (Poppy);
3, Elle Cain (Twinklebell).
Tadpoles ‘B',
1, Abby Jackson (Poppy);
2, Daisy Loader (Tyler);
3, Sophie Taylor (Polaris Unicorn).
Novice Horse,
1, Bryonny Scott (Grianagh Saretta);
2, Emma Senogles (Ben Hur).
Intermediate,
1, Bryonny Scott (Grianagh Saretta);
2, Ellis Benjamin (Earl Grey);
3, Cherie Wilde (African Diamond).
Forage Stakes,
1, Cherie Wilde (African Diamond).
Cubhunter & Open,
1, Juliet Tranter ( Orlando ).
GGH WINTER SHOWJUMPING
02/01/11
After a long list of local equestrian sporting activities being cancelled, it was good news for those wanting an outing that the indoor showjumping at GGH Equitation Centre on January 2 nd was able to be held. There was a buzz of excitement running through the junior competitors in the morning as George Osborn had provided some small prizes for the best fancy dress outfits: this was won by Percy Hampton's imaginative portrayal of a moving Christmas Tree!
With the recent bad weather the December event had to be postponed: this will now be held on January 23 rd , so fingers crossed for suitable weather! Emma Kennaugh and Jo Brackett kept the Sunday event running smoothly, and it was good to see some new faces.
Percy Hampton produced two unbeatably fast times in the two Tadpole jump off rounds on his pony Donkey Boy – none of the girls could catch him. Freya Cullen and Tinesha Kinley both rode balanced, competent rides in the Junior Novice Classes, while Jodie Arden on Woodlands Will ‘o' the Wisp rode a fast jump off to win the Cubhunter class.
The adults were a little thin on the ground after a rather long break enforced by the recent two cold spells bad weather. Here Juliet Tranter on her two horses, Orlando and Nitron X, shows that she too could match, and even go faster than, the juniors in the jump off, to win and be placed in the two highest classes.
Juniors -
Tadpoles ‘A',
1, Percy Hampton (Donkey Boy);
2, Abby Jackson (Poppy);
3, Elle Cain (Tinklebell).
