A festive riding extravaganza

THE SUN was trying to shine, and the festive spirit was in full swing at the Wonthaggi Pony Club’s Christmas Rally held this past weekend. With 18 riders in attendance, the day was filled with laughter, learning, and a whole lot of cheer.

Adding a sprinkle of holiday magic, several members donned Christmas-themed costumes, turning the rally into a festive spectacle. From Santa’s helpers to Gandalf riding, the creativity was truly impressive. A special mention goes to the rider who transformed into an angel.

The highlight of the day was the three exciting lessons that kept everyone on their toes.

The Barrel racing lesson brought out the competitive spirit in our riders. It was a true display of agility and precision as riders manoeuvred through the barrels. The riders also enjoyed ‘Old English Plate’ which added a touch of tradition to the mix.

However, the real adventure kicked in with the third lesson — a scavenger hunt organised by Micaela Brereton. Riders navigated the cross-country course in search of hidden clues, adding an element of excitement and camaraderie to the rally. It was a joy to see riders and their horses working together to solve clues and complete challenges.

Special thanks go to our dedicated DC Erin Passarin and Assistant DC Lauren Wilkinson for orchestrating this fantastic day of fun and learning. Their hard work and commitment to the club truly shone through, creating an unforgettable experience for all.

Our fabulous members helped run the entertaining rings throughout the day. Their enthusiasm and support added an extra layer of enjoyment to the rally.

A shared lunch brought everyone together, with members contributing delicious salads and sweet treats. The picnic atmosphere provided an opportunity for riders to relax, share stories, and bond over their mutual love for horses.

Our riders were presented with awards after lunch. We encourage our riders to be kind, courteous, engaged and learning in their lessons. Instructors give points to riders each lesson and they are tallied at the end of the year. We also have presentation awards to riders who come to lessons with clean horses and uniform and gear.

As always, the Wonthaggi Pony Club is fortunate to have skilled and dedicated members who contribute not only to the fun activities but also to the maintenance of our beloved facilities. A heartfelt thank you to those who lent a helping hand, ensuring that our club remains a safe and welcoming place for all.

In the spirit of giving, the Wonthaggi Pony Club wishes everyone a joyous holiday season filled with love, laughter, and, of course, plenty of horseback adventures. We look forward to more exciting rallies and shared moments in the coming year.