Finals

GRAND FINAL 2012

Despite rain and cancellations across the country, eleven ponies and their riders competed at the Ponies(UK) South Show to be crowned Marriage’s Riding Club Pony of the Year. The weather and perhaps the price of fuel meant that the Grand Final field was not as large as in some years, so the organisers were impressed by those who made it all the way from the depths of East Anglia.

It was however a pair from Kent who took home the top honour. Izzy Chaplin and Millfields Flight had taken the last ticket at the South Area Final at the Edenbridge & Oxted Show back in 2011, but were not to be deterred. Their performance on the day showed great control and style, just enough to pip a strong reserve pair, Olivia Lucas and Ballymarkham No Doubt from Suffolk.

In this class the judges look for a suitable combination of pony and rider aged 16 or under, able to jump a course of fences, complete two tasks and perform a short show. It is designed to test accuracy and temperament, rather than speed or confirmation.

The decision was tough after a number of clear rounds, successful tasks and stylish shows. In the end Robyn Woodward and Brookwood Fern were third, with Madeleine Banks placed fourth on Mynach Joylon, making it three Suffolk qualifiers in the top four.

Local qualifying classes for the 2012/13 competition have started across East Anglia and the South East – please click here for more information.

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