I think we can all agree that it's been a bit damp of late! But that hasn't stopped us trotting on with gusto over the last couple of weeks! We've had competitions, welcomed new volunteers and riders and our office team have been kitted out in some snazzy new uniform! Read on for the deets!
Gill's Show Jumping Run Down!
Friday 16th February RDA Show Jumping Competition:
Considering all the rain we have suffered from recently, we were very lucky on the day that it turned out to be mainly dry.
As always, we were delighted to welcome competitors from Lyncombe Lodge, Saxon and Wellow RDA Groups to join our Avon riders taking part in six Classes:
The day began with Class 4 Level 3 SJ, then Class 3 Level 2 SJ, Class 2 Level 1 SJ Unled, then Class 1 Level 1 SJ Led.
Finally we included two new Avon Prix Caprilli Classes: Class 5 in Walk &Trot and Class 6 in Walk, Trot and Canter, adding an extra fun element at the end of the session.
For those not familiar with this type of course, it is a dressage test that includes some small jumps that need to be negotiated within a 20m X 40m arena. Thanks to Bridget Mackwood for her help with designing these new tests and for judging all day.
All those riders taking part throughout the event should feel proud of themselves. There is of course some friendly rivalry, but these events are all about encouraging riders at all levels to ‘have a go’ and for some this was their first ever competition so ‘Well Done’ everyone!!
A huge thank you to all the stable staff for turning out our horses so well, and to all the volunteers that helped during the day – we couldn’t do it without you!!
We look forward to welcoming you all back on April 12th for our Easter Dressage competition.
Save the date!
We are excited to be having our Open Day on May 19th! We will have lots of fun activities, food and more! We will of course need volunteers, so if you'd like to help on the day please email Viktorija!
If you just want to come for a look around and have some cake, please save the date, maybe invite a friend who's never been before! More details coming soon!
Happy Birthday Jenny!
We were delighted that long time rider, volunteer and supporter of the Centre, Jenny, chose to celebrate her 80th Birthday with us! Not only did we have a lovely time in the conference room with great food and lovely people, but there was also an auction! I came away with a bedpan, which I did not know I needed until I bid on it...
Altogether the party raised over £600 to support the Centre, and we loved hosting it, thanks and many happy returns!
Fancy Taking Up the Para Challenge?
Avon Centre Ambassador Tegan Vincent Cooke announced her Para Dressage Challenge, starting from March 3rd! It encourages everyone to try a para test out and see what's involved.
The challenge involves filming yourself completing Grade 1 Grand Prix walk only test and uploading it. Make sure you follow Tegan on Facebook (Tegan V-C Para Dressage) or on Instagram (@tegan.vincent.cooke) and make sure you tag her when you post and use the hashtag #tegansparachallenge. Good luck everyone!
