The Big Event at Arundel Group Riding for the Disabled

Daisy receiving the Lavinia Norfolk Tropy from Terry Clothier, with Lady Miranda

RIDERS who would otherwise not be able to compete were given a range of fun challenges at The Big Event.

Organisers said it was the biggest event they had ever held at Arundel Group Riding for the Disabled, involving 20 riders aged four to 60, ten ponies and more than 50 volunteers.

The first of its kind, it was a fun event with a serious side, as each rider rode a dressage test in one of the three classes.

Volunteer co-ordinator Ann Watts said: “The youngest riders rode a test based on road safety, with coloured roads and a roundabout to be navigated. The more advanced riders rode a test with walk and trot, and were led or escorted as appropriate.”

Class winners were Noah, six, Cody, nine, and Michelle, 18. The trophy for the highest overall percentage score went to Michelle and the best turned out rider was Ethan, 12.

The event theme was bears, so riders were challenged to help Paddington on his journey from Peru. They collected oranges for marmalade and luggage tags, and posted a letter to Aunt Lucy in the Home for Retired Bears in Peru.

Ann added: “Each rider mounted the pony that they ride during their regular riding lesson and completed a handy pony course.

“Younger riders and not so young volunteers wore bear-themed fancy dress. The best bear rider was Chloe, six, and the best bear volunteer was Bill, a very wise old bear.”

Michelle, Class 3 winner and rider with highest percentage score, receiving the Hilary and Sheila Tangye Trust Trophy from Lady Emmett, with Terry Clothier

Lady Miranda Emmett presented the Hilary and Sheila Tange Trust Trophy to Michelle.

Sue Coombe-Tennant presented The Ferdie Trophy to Fiona, for special achievement during the year. She was selected by the trustess as ‘she enters into the spirit of anything we organise and always thinks of others’.

Janie Lawson and Lindsay Correa from Riding for the Disabled South Eastern Region presented the Lavinia Norfolk Trophy to Daisy, the rider showing best progress having succeeded in her rising trot.

The prize-giving was hosted by chairman Terry Clothier and group instructor Simon Luck.

Noah in fancy dress and Class 1 winner on Tatty

There was a range of bear-themed games on the field, refreshments and a special cake provided by parents.

All the riders received a rosette and event medal.

Rider Chloe, clutching her award, medal and rosette, said: “This has made me feel very special.”

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