Everyone started to gather at just after 9am, eyes deliberately avoiding looking up at the ever darkening clouds! The troops were split into groups according to ability and Sam took one group for flatwork and a jumping lesson whilst Sharon took the two ‘littluns’ for some windmill and plane practice to help improve their balance and stability in the saddle. Ruth took the remainder of the attendees into the barn for some stable management and a pony quiz.
After an hour, we stopped for a quick drink and mid morning snack (thanks to Ruth’s mum and her homemade lemon drizzle cake which was a real hit!). Then the groups swapped around; the second lot not being so lucky with the skies deciding to give them a quick soaking.
Lunch followed and we all sat together for hotdogs, pizza and marmite sandwiches (specifically provided for Aaron who as a taste for the ‘orrible brown stuff!!)
Whilst we ate and consumed vast amounts of hot chocolate, the clouds above opened and the rain hammered down on the roof. After some deliberation and a small lull in the downpour, we decided the show would go on and Ruth, Steve, Bec and Sharon set about making up the gymkhana games.
The guys split into 2 teams and all attacked each game with great enthusiasm. We played the bending relay game, walk/trot/canter game and games with fish, socks, mugs, cups, etc. As we were steadily getting soaked to the skin we decided to end the day with the dressing up game which meant each of the 4 team members had to get to the other end of the arena, dismount, put on an item of clothing, mount up and get back to tag the next to go. The winning team was the one which had one person dressed up in all the clothes gathered by their other team members. Much hilarity was had by all and after rosette and prize giving we swam back up to the barn for a warm cup of tea and of course, more cake!”
Thanks to everyone for coming, and to those that helped run the day. We hope to hold another Fun day during the February half term. Keep an eye on the website for more details.