April 2007 - Pony Club Nationals
Transcription
April 2007 - Pony Club Nationals
PCA NSW of the Pony Club of New South Wales Volume 25 – April 2007 STOP PRESS This is the last issue of the PCA Newsletter that will be produced in hardcopy. From June 2007, the newsletter will be available in electronic format only. Each member will receive an email when the newsletter is available from the PCA website or if the file is not too large it will be emailed directly to you. To ensure you don’t miss out contact the State Office to advise your email address. Include your name, address, club and email address so your details can be updated. Contact via phone 02 42298977, fax 02 42298966 or email [email protected] The new electronic newsletter will be produced four times per year: March, June, September and December. STOP PRESS The financial support of the New South Wales Department of Sport and Recreation is Acknowledged Pony Club Association of New South Wale s Room 317, Sports House Wentworth Park Sporting Complex Wattle Street U LTIMO NSW 2007 Director: Jenny Amadio Executive Assistant: Teena Murdoch PO Box 980 GLEBE NSW 2037 Ph: (02) 9552 2800 Fax: (02) 9552 2787 Email: [email protected] www.pcansw.org.au PRESIDENT’S REPORT REPORT TO THE ANNUAL MEETING ON TUESDAY THE 27th MARCH 2007 My report this year is somewhat different to those that I have given in earlier years. You each have details of all of the schools and squads, New South Wales state championships held and the numbers attended. The numbers who have attended Queensland championships. These records highlight the Association's activities. There are of course also many things which occur in our Zones and Clubs, the grassroots of our organisation. Last year the annual report referred to the slight decrease there has been in the numbers of our membership. I hope that someone would come up with a solution. As you are aware we attempted to hold a forum to give members the opportunity of expressing their views about the Association in all respects. This was cancelled because of lack of interest. Thereafter the firm which we had appointed to conduct the forum, K.M. Grega & Associates, interviewed many pony club members both by telephone and face-to-face and attended some Pony Club functions. From the information they received they drew up a survey which was distributed by the web site, after as much publicity that we could possibly devise. Our efforts were supported by the Department of Sport and Recreation by a grant. Members of the executive spent considerable time initially meeting with the principals of K.M Grega & Associates, considering the material produced by them from time to time, meeting with them to consider their preliminary report and subsequently considering their report for eventual presentation to the Council. I am happy to say that the decrease in numbers has not continued. We had an increase of one person in the year 2006. I don't suggest that this is a result of the survey or any particular effort by anybody. It is however better than a decrease. However in speaking to people from clubs and zones throughout the state, I'm of the opinion that we have an increase in numbers of children under 12 or 14 and that we have less over that age group. I am aware that this problem is shared by other Pony Club Associations and other sports. I know that numerous others are interested in the results of our efforts. The report has emphasised the many strengths that Pony Club has; the family involvement, the safe and supportive environment, the success of many of our former members, our traditions, with a low cost and the healthy lifestyle to mention a few. Our weaknesses have also been mentioned; lack of communication, too many rules and regulations, boys don't like grooming horses, lack of instructors - particularly for the more advanced riders, lack of respect by parents for young instructors, Pony Club's image, is the name appropriate, gear:- boots, helmets and gaiters, for example. The report lists threats; fuel prices, quality of instructors for teenagers causing loss of interest, poor organisation at rally days, cost of keeping horses, other sports are promoted more aggressively, potential injuries, inability of Association to make changes quickly, interschool competition, open competition and EFA moving into pony club's youth market. The report also lists opportunities perceived through the survey. I believe the report is enlightening, with perhaps some surprises but with a lot which confirms some things of which we have been talking for some time. A lot of consideration must be given to the full report and it will be the responsibility of future councils to address its findings. Everybody is not going to agree with everything of course. The things which need to be done will not be done all at once, it will be a long term project but some of the things can be addressed quite promptly and I trust that everybody will co-operate in the discussions which must take place. competition at Werribee in Victoria in December. The team was Patrick Fitzsimmons, Madison Whant, Katie Slater, Matt Dillon and Damien Nikolov; the coach and chaperone were Rob and Dalene Bennett. When we first proposed the forum, part of the grant we received from the Department was to conduct regional forums and we have an obligation to carry these out and I'm hoping that we will receive some further assistance, views, ideas and suggestions from people attending these. The New South Wales Senior Mounted Games Team competed at Gawler, South Australia in November last and gained second place. The team consisted of Graham Aird, Jeffrey Braithwaite, Brett Davies, Benjamin Logue and Brenton Ward. The coach was Phil Logue. Two from this team will represent Australia in a Trans-Tasman competition in April next. They are:- Jeffrey Braithwaite and Brenton Ward. These are to be conducted by K. M. Grega & Associates. The first is to be held in Armidale at the Armidale Bowling Club on Saturday the 31st of March next, the next will be on the 12th of May at the Rules Club Wagga Wagga and the third will be held at Dubbo RSL Club Resort on the 16th of June. I ask all of you here, and anybody who reads this to encourage everybody you can to attend these Regional Forums. Please come along and help your Association ANNUAL CAMP The annual camp held in January this year as in earlier years was very successful and enjoyable for practically everybody. However as a result of some concerns, the method of selecting Mounted Games applicants at the Mounted Games State Championships will be different in future years. Full details will be published later, well before the championships. I thank Bree Furze for the report of the camp which she has written and her photographs, which you will find, if you haven't already done so, upon the Association' s Website INTERNATIONAL REPRESENTATIVES The New South Wales representative as part of the Australian Interpacific Exchange Team 2007 is Josh Sozou from Zone 13, he was chosen from a group of six applicants at a selection day held at Tamworth Zone 5 and I thank the Tamworth Pony Club for the use of its grounds and equipment. The new method for choosing International Mounted Games Teams as proposed by New South Wales and eventually accepted by Pony Club Australia, I believe worked very successfully. Each state chose two applicants and a selector. Northern Territory did not send anyone. This meant we had six electors and 12 persons from whom to choose a team of five and two reserves. New South Wales hosted the first selection weekend at the Hawkesbury Campus of Western Sydney University and Londonderry Pony Club Grounds. Many thanks to Londonderry Pony Club which continually makes its grounds available. The upshot was that after a very careful selection process the two New South Wales applicants were both chosen in the team, Patrick Fitzsimmons and Madison Whant from Zones 12 and 14 respectively. I believe all of the selectors were satisfied that the process was very fair and that all selectors had equal input. They expressed appreciation of New South Wales hospitality. NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS The New South Wales Prince Philip Mounted Games Team were successful in winning the 2006 INTERNATIONAL REPRESENTATION 2006 New South Wales did not have a representative in the International Mounted Games Team which travelled to England and gained second place. Rob and Dalene Bennett were coach and chaperone respectively for this team. They held the same position in a team invited to New Zealand and which was self-funded and which included two New South Wales members earlier in the year. I commented that last year on all that the Bennetts were doing for our Association I can only say now, that it continued, as you can see, throughout 2006. PONY CLUB AUSTRALIA The new syllabus for certificates has been completed, published and is now available, from our New South Wales office. Considerable adjustments are to be made to the NCAS Pony Club certificate requirements. These deserve some serious consideration by our Association as the adjustments do address some of the concerns, which we had in relation to the initial scheme. The Annual meeting and Council meeting were held in Perth during the last weekend. I represented New South Wales at these meetings and Jenny Frankum did so at the instructional meeting was which were held contemporaneously. She was also an observer at the formal delegates' meetings. The office bearers are:President, Don Nixon from Queensland. Vice Pres, Greg Bailey from South Australia. Secretary, Michele Wilkie from Western Australia. Treasurer: Stephen Coffey from Victoria. The former vice president Ian Melville from Northern Territory has been very ill and therefore did not seek nomination. The above were the only nominations and other than the vice president remain the same as last year. The financial statement showed an excess of income over expenditure of approximately $41,500. This was after capitation fees paid by the States / Territory of a total of $15,000. Approximately $4000 of this came from New South Wales and the same amount was refunded to New South Wales as an Instructional Grant to the State from Pony Club Australia. The purpose of this exercise is said to be to show the Australian Sports Commission that the States are paying a capitation fee to support Pony Club Australia and Pony Club Australia is supporting the States by making grants for instructional purposes! PRESIDENT’S REPORT CONT. The President's report referred to the fear of losing government funding and the need for a Memorandum of Understanding between Pony Club Australia and the EFA. The manner by which NSW PCA conducted the selection for the International Mounted Games was favourably mentioned. The PCA office, situated within the Pony Club Association of Queensland offices is obviously working efficiently with a part time administrator which of course is reflected in the bottom line of the financial report. Arrangements for the National Championships to be held in July next are progressing satisfactorily and all of the arrangements for the Trans-Tasman Mounted Games Competition, the International Mounted Games Tour and the Inter-pacific Exchange are all in hand. PCA is looking to change its web site to that currently used by Western Australia - said to be more user friendly. The new level of certificate for the NCAS Pony Club which I mentioned earlier, is to be called "Preliminary Pony Club Coach." The most significant move that Pony Club Australia has made since I have been attending the meetings is a resolution that Pony Club Australia and all member States/Territory should adopt national rules for Dressage, Showjumping, Eventing/Horse Trials and Combined Training. To effect this each of the Instructional Representatives is to take the EFA rules for each of the disciplines and set out the differences between the EFA rules and the particular State/Territory rules. These are to be forwarded to a co-ordinator appointed for each discipline, Jenny Frankum being the co-ordinator for Showjumping. I feel sure that Jenny will need some assistance, particularly in compiling the necessary document in regard to the other disciplines. The advisory committees should take note. A fairly short timeframe has been given as nobody wishes to see this move languish and consequently die. The rules in question include dress rules. New South Wales may well be advised at the same time as the differences between our rules and the EFA are being considered, to give some consideration to some of our dress rules. The reason that I believe that this initiative is so significant is that if it succeeds, and I certainly hope it will, all States will be handing over control of these matters to the National body. Perhaps this could be regarded as a first move to a National organisation which is able to speak for Pony Clubs throughout Australia. I recommend that PCA NSW support this move as I believe it is in the interests of our riders as they move between the States and EFA competition that they are not confused by having to deal with differing rules. It is expected that other disciplines will follow and it was noted that there will not be much to do, for Mounted Games. New South Wales has confirmed that it wishes to conduct National Championships in 2009 at Sydney International Equestrian Centre, that is Horsley Park and bookings have tentatively been made for the 12th to 18th of July 2009. The PCA has granted these championships to NSW. We will be hearing a lot more about this during the next two years. Western Australia has offered to conduct the next selection for International mounted games. As the other three country participants want these to be held every second year rather than annually as they are at the moment we cannot say when this selection will take place. Michele Wilkie the PCA secretary is to travel as chaperone with the mounted games team to Kentucky USA in July and will represent Australia at the meeting to be held at that time. She has been directed to oppose the other three countries and if she does not succeed, to explore the likelihood of any of them being interested in joining in an expansion of the Trans-Tasman competition or any other proposal which will allow Australia to have an international team each year. The meeting was very interested in the results of our recent survey and full details were given of the Swot Analysis. All the delegates wish to have copies of this together with any further information which may arise from the three forums to be held shortly in Armidale, Dubbo and Wagga Wagga. FINANCES The support that we enjoy from the Department of Sport and Recreation is much appreciated as is the support from our sponsors, Horseland and Mitavite. It would be wonderful if we could obtain more sponsorship. Our esteemed Treasurer is shortly to present his report which shows a very satisfactory financial situation, that we are able to meet all of our commitments from time to time, that we give support to our voluntary instructors. We give instruction to our riders who have commenced to show promise, we conduct eight State Championships each year, we are involved in National and International Competition. Our office attends to the miscellany of duties required of it. All schools as requested, subject to finding suitable dates are held. INSURANCE The negotiations that we have had over a number of years, and the vigilance of our members are all paying off. We have an excellent record and we have had a further very slight reduction in premium. I ask all members to keep up the good work. ADMINISTRATION Jenny Amadio and her assistant, Teena Murdoch are doing an excellent job in maintaining our records, keeping the affiliations up-to-date, looking after the day-to-day financial processes, doing everything they can to assist in communication between the Association, Zones, Clubs and members, making all arrangements for State Championships, Council, Chief Instructors and Executive meetings, all of these things and many more and during this period organising the moving to our new offices and setting them up. The purchase of our offices at Wollongong during the year will, I am sure, prove to be a highlight in the history of the Pony Club Association of New South Wales. On behalf of you all I thank Jenny and Teena for their dedication to Pony Club. STATE COACHES Jane Frankum as coordinator together with the other State coaches, Sarah Venamore, Gina Haddad, Ben Netterfield and the odd reserve, the Level 3 instructors who have given schools and attended camp and John Vallance for conducting Showjumping Design schools are all to be thanked for their efforts during the year and commended for the manner in which they conduct the schools. THE EXECUTIVE Many thanks to all members of the executive for what they have been doing for pony club, particularly during 2006. I understand that some of them will not be continuing upon the executive, I particularly thank them for their efforts and express to them our best wishes in the future either within or without Pony Club. I feel sure that more will be said Letters to the Association Dear PCA, It was such a pleasure to attend the recent PCA of NSW State Mounted Games and ODE Championships held at Hawkesbury Showground and Camden Bicentennial Park. What a brilliant job you all did under some adverse weather conditions. Well done to all the committee members of both Zone 26 and Zone 10. Dear PCA NSW, Thank you for the State Training Clinic held in Narrandera on 5 & 6 August 2006. It was a fantastic opportunity for us. I participated I the Showjumping with Ben Netterfield and Stacey in Dressage with Sarah Venamore. Due to distance, it is not often that we can attend instructional days with instructors like Ben, Sarah and Gina. We learnt a lot and enjoyed seeing other riders from around the area. It is sad to hear that there will not be any more of this type of school. We hope It was wonderful to see all the riders displaying such sportsmanship, team spirit that the Association is going to implement something else to offset the loss of and consideration to their mounts during both State Championships. I was so these instructional days. More regional schools out this way would be a start as impressed by the high standard of both riders and their horses. To see so many we have to travel at least 2 hours plus for any kind of high level instruction or to riders competing with such enthusiasm and dedication makes you realise that compete. Thank you again for the weekend. we have some wonderful young people who will be our leaders of the future. Yours sincerely Yours sincerely Gemma & Stacey Rosser Virginia Sutherland Hay Pony Club – Zone 21 SCHOOLS /E VEN TS SINCE 1 ST JA N UA RY 2006 INSTRUCTORS SCHOOLS 11 & 12 February 18 & 19 March 6 & 7 May 13 May 15 & 16 July 22 & 23 July 19 & 20 August 16 & 17 September 30 Sept & 1 Oct 28 & 29 October 4 & 5 November Zone 18 Zone 7 Zone 14 Zone 10 Zone 8 Zone 27 Zone 2 Zone 6 Zone 15 Zone 25 Zone 11 Gina Haddad Jane Frankum Gina Haddad Jane Frankum Ben Netterfield Jane Frankum Sarah Venamore Sarah Venamore Ben Netterfield Jane Frankum Sarah Venamore LEVEL 2 ADVANCED I NSTRUCTORS SCHOOLS 20 & 21 May Zone 20 3 & 4 June Zone 26 17 & 18 June Zone 22 19 & 20 August Zone 21 Gina Haddad, Sarah Venamore, Greg Hogan Jenny & Jane Frankum, Greg Hogan Ben Netterfield, Greg Hogan Gina Haddad, Erica Kelly JUNIOR REGIONAL SCHOOLS 18 & 19 March 1 & 2 April 8 & 9 April 29 & 30 April 6 & 7 May 27 & 28 May 27 & 28 May 17 & 18 June 17 & 18 June 24 & 25 June 15 & 16 July 29 & 30 July 26 & 27 August 14 & 15 October 21 & 22 October 11 & 12 November 9 & 10 December 16 & 17 December 19 & 20 December Zone 5 Zone 11 Zone 12 Zone 17 Zone 27 Zone 10 Zone 23 Zone 21 Zone 7 Zone 23 Zone 8 Zone 27 Zone 26 Zone 21 Zone 6 Zone 9 Zone 28 Zone 27 Zone 8 Jumping Equitation – B Netterfield Eventing – G Haddad Equitation – B Netterfield Showjumping – C Johnson Equitation – J Frankum Equitation - Jane Frankum Eventing – G Haddad Dressage – J Frankum Eventing – G Haddad Equitation – J Frankum Equitation – J Frankum Vaulting – S Venamore Dressage – S Venamore Dressage – S Venamore Dressage – S Venamore Eventing – G Haddad Eventing – G Haddad Dressage – S Venamore Eventing – G Haddad SENIOR REGIONAL SCHOOLS 11 & 12 February 18 & 19 February 24 & 25 June 29 & 30 July 21 & 22 October Zone 2 Zone 9 Zone 26 Zone 28 Zone 12 Dressage – G Rickard Campdrafting – R Parberry Dressage – D Stewar t Dressage – G Rickard Eventing – S Kale SPECIALIST SCHOOLS 4 & 5 March 11 & 12 March 17 & 18 June 22 7 23 July Zone 21 Zone 23 Zone 21 Zone 11 JE Judges JE Judges SJ Course Design SJ Course Design STATE TRAINING SQUADS 29 & 30 April 27 & 28 May 24 & 25 June 5 & 6 August Mirrabooka Camden Haven Condobolin Narrandera SJ & EV only EV & Dres only All disciplines All disciplines B Netterfield B Netterfield J Vallance J Vallance STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS (as at close of entries) Dressage Hawkesbury Sporting Inverell Campdrafting Inverell Jumping Equitation Worrigee Showjumping Dubbo Mounted Games Clarendon One Day event Camden Show Riding Glen Innes 157 273 174 217 157 61 teams 180 177 PCAQ CHAMPIONSHIPS Show Jumping & Jumping Equitation Sporting, Campdrafting Zone Teams Showjumping 25 in showjumping, 26 in equitation 8 in sporting, 4 in campdrafting 3 teams Just a Minute Amendments to Association Handbook passed and important information since June 2006 SPORTING C24/06 It was moved that a fall of horse and/or rider incurs elimination from that event. CAMPDRAFTING C25/06 It was moved that the PCA adopt the ABCRA rules in the case of a rerun if one or more beasts break the camp the lowest cut-out score will be used. C57/06 C66/06 C28/06 C29/06 C30/06 It was moved that PCA adopt the following EFA rule changes ▲ Third (3rd) refusal incurs elimination in all grades ▲ Restart – after a knockdown/refusal that the time is restarted when the horse’s front feet leave the ground and six (6) seconds is added to the time for the round. ▲ Penalties are incurred if the rider passes the extended line of the fence to be jumped. It was moved that the Pony Club Association of New South Wales Inc adopt the Syllabus of Instruction (PCA). It was moved that any person attending an instructors school, if they can only attend one day of a school then that person must attend the first day unless prior arrangements have been made with the Zone Chief Instructor. It was moved that hacking canes (with or without a flap) not exceeding 75cm in length overall are permitted in Riding and Hacking classes only. C40/06 It was moved that the State Dressage Championships shall be held during the last full weekend in August in lieu of the third week end in January in each year and that the handbook should be amended after the word August in clause 1.g on page 4-2 thereof by deleting the words after ‘Dressage’ and before ‘Sporting’ and in lieu thereof by inserting the following: -‘end of June in the year prior to the championship. C41/06 C56/06 C68/06 It was moved that for State Sporting Championships the age groups should be amended as follows: Under 11 years, 11 years and under 13 years, 13 years and under 15 years, 15 years and under 17 years and finally , Associates. It was moved that planks should not be used for securing balloons in the Balloon Bursting Race. It was moved that after paragraph three on 7-5 of the PCA Handbook the following be added. Riding Trousers may be worn when competing in all Flat work events as Club and Zone level only (the exception being Dressage, Showjumping & Eventing competitions). C69/06 It was moved that a fall of horse and/or rider during a dressage competition, between the time of entry and the time of exit at A, will be eliminated. C70/06 It was moved that the application for affiliation by Glen Oak Pony Club in Zone 25 be approved. C71/06 It was moved that the application by Zone 18 to change the colour of their jumpers from grey to maroon be approved. Z7/07 It was moved that the following new Zone Chief Instructors be ratified- It was moved that Club Examiners be required to attend at least one (2-day) state examiners workshop in each three (3) year period to begin from 1st July 2007. C31/06 It was moved that the fourth paragraph on 7-6 of the PCA Handbook be amended with the addition of “or long sleeved” after ‘short’ to read: Note: The definition of the polo shirt allowed is as follows “short or long sleeved with three buttons and collar , club emblem on left pocket and can be comprised of the main Zone/Club colour with the secondary Zone/Club contrasting trim on the collar and around cuff. JUMPING EQUITATION C26/06 It was moved that the height of fences in the Associate division at the State Jumping Equitation Championships be increased to 95cm. SHOWJUMPING C27/06 It was moved that the rings in the Sword Race should be the same colour in each lane and to be an easily visible colour. (h) Showriding State Championships. Zone 3 Zone 19 - Mr Tim Dansey Mr Craig Martin C7/07 It was moved that applications for selection into the Mounted Games squad at the State Mounted Games Championships be submitted with entries for the State Championships on the State Camp application form attached to the entry schedule. C10/07 It was moved that PCA allow EFA members to attend its showjumping course design, showjumping judges and jumping equitation judge’s schools. C15/07 It was moved that rider’s aged 13, 14 and 15 years be eligible for selection of the Mounted Games squad at the State Mounted Games Championships. C17/07 It was moved that the Square Yard Race event be included in the PCA Handbook section 11 – see attached diagram C19/07 It was moved that the In & Out the Paddock event, with amendment, be included in the PCA Handbook section 11 – see attached diagram. C21/07 It was moved that the application by Maitland Pony Club to transfer from Zone 7 to Zone 25 be approved. C23/07 It was moved that the application for reformation by Lismore Pony Club be approved. ON CONFIDENCE Part 1 The Rider When teaching there are two vital areas to develop confidence in riding. a. The riders confidence b. The horses confidence In this article, we will deal with the rider’s confidence. How many times have we seen the enthusiastic young rider demoralised by a well meaning instructor intent on totally rebuilding the rider in the image of perfection. We must not sacrifice natural ability for a rigid position i.e. natural forward riding stifled by a rigid hand If we try to create a style that does not suite the shape of the rider i.e. someone slightly sway backed encouraged to put their shoulders back rather than trying to sit more on the cheekbones rather than their crotch. No matter which of these methods is employed, they will not let the young rider reach his or her potential. This inability to proceed with the schooling will of course, make the riders lose confidence. These methods disregard the most important aspects of teaching: a. Assess the riders – all riders have weaknesses and strengths. There will always be something worthwhile which must be rewarded b. By encouraging constantly, the young rider is never demoralised into thinking there are an insurmountable number of errors to be corrected. c. To aid the process of correction, don’t try and correct too many things at once. Look for the correction most important for the rider’s safety. Early on its usually stability of leg position. Talk about aspects of that as you get the riders leg more still i.e. (1) Exactly where it should be and why (2) How it is used (3) How the still leg can be a foundation to move on to other areas like still hands. To summarise, remember that good technique and position are vital but they are to be achieved by constructive criticism making goals; a. Achievable i.e. within the ability of the rider and b. Only working on one or two corrections at a time MR TREVOR MORRIS NCAS Level 1 Instructor 2007 International Mounted Games Team Selection NSW played host to the 2007 International Mounted Games Team Selection camp held 26 – 28 January. Each State and Territory had the opportunity to send two riders and selector to the camp held at Londonderry Pony Club. Congratulations to each of the riders that participated. The Australian team to compete at the International Championships being held in Kentucky, USA in July is: - ■ Lauren Brown – WA ■ Jeremy Connelly – SA ■ Patrick Fitzsimmons – N SW ■ Billie Pearson – Vic ■ Madison Whant – N SW Reserves: ■ Jessica Manson – WA ■ Matthew Slade - Vic ARE YOU READY FO R BRI G HT FUN RI DIN G in the most c o m f o rt a b l e a ro u n d ? jo d z GREAT AS A GIFT! Available in club colours . Polo shirts to coordinate NEW CATALOGUE OUT NOW! Special measure orders welcome Jump online to see the full range of colours to choose from... The choice is yours! www.kazjodz.com.au Email: [email protected] Ph 02 6922 4075 or Fax 02 6922 3713 Email – [email protected] 11 Kyeamba Ave Wagga Wagga NSW 2650 AUSTRALIAN YOUTH SHOWJUMPING FESTIVAL Worrigee Equestrian Common, Nowra Saturday 29th September – Monday 1st October 2007 Incorporating The FEI Children’s International Jumping Competition Entries close 14th September, 2007. NO LATE ENTRIES WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER THIS DATE. Entries will only be accepted if completed fully with payment and received by mail. Please note all riders under 18yrs must be accompanied by an parent or legal guardian throughout the whole show. Three full days of showjumping with height classes starting at 60cm through to 1.30m also Pony Jumping Classes. Sections for all ages up to and including riders in the year of their 21st birthday. Novice Juniors, Novice Young Riders, Open Juniors and Open Young Riders. Programmes and further information will be available from July at www.nswsjc.com HOSTED BY ESP EQUESTRIAN SPORTS PROMOTIONS For all other enquiries contact Jane Frankum or John Vallance on 0246 531063. 2006 State Mounted 7 & 8 October 200 6 CLUB TEAM RESULTS OLD SOCK RACE POSTMANS CHASE Place 1 2 3 4 5 Place 1 2 3 4 5 Team Zone Cobargo All Stars 14 Wamboin Warriors 16 Forest Hillbillies 23 The Vines Racing Lizards 26 Muswellbrook Outriders 7 Team Muswellbrook Outriders Moruya Helensburgh Gold Oberon Rough Riders Tumbarumba Turtles STEPPIN G STONE DASH HI LO RACE Place 1 2 3 4 5 Place 1 2 3 4 5 Team Zone Forest Hillbillies 23 Wamboin Warriors 16 The Vines Racing Lizards 26 Canberra Riding Fab 5 16 Cobargo All Stars 14 WINDSOR CASTLE Place 1 2 3 4 5 Team Moruya Tumut Blues Michelago Bullets Helensburgh Gold Canberra Riding Fab 5 Zone 14 20 16 22 16 Team Moruya Bungendore Blitz Oberon Rough Riders Cobargo All Stars Forest Hillbillies Team Wamboin Warriors Canberra Riding Fab 5 Bungendore Blitz Bathurst Bushrangers Glenorie Zone 16 16 16 3 26 Zone 14 16 3 14 23 Place 1 2 3 4 5 Team Muswellbrook Outriders Cobargo All Stars The Vines Racing Lizards Wamboin Warriors Canberra Riding Fab 5 Zone 7 14 26 16 16 FIVE FLAG RACE Team Canberra Riding Fab 5 Matcham Valley Red Moruya Lake Conjola Oberon Rough Riders Zone 16 24 14 28 3 CHAMPION TEAM: WAMBON WARRIORS, ZONE 16 ■ Hannah Brugman ■ Penny Slater ■ Katie Slater ■ Nicole Smith ■ Lauren Slater Place 1 2 3 4 5 TYRE RACE THREE MUG RACE Place 1 2 3 4 5 Zone 7 3 22 14 16 SWORD RACE BALLOON BURSTING Place 1 2 3 4 5 Team Muswellbrook Outriders Oberon Rough Riders Helensburgh Gold Moruya Wamboin Warriors Zone 7 14 22 3 22 Place 1 2 3 4 5 Team Wamboin Warriors Cobargo All Stars Oberon Rough Riders Helensburgh Gold Molong Zone 16 14 3 22 3 Games Championships Hawkesbury Showground, Clarendon ZONE TEAM RESULTS POSTMANS CHASE Place 1 2 3 4 5 Team Zone 16 Beasts Zone 28 Charcoal Zone 26 Monkey Dishwashers Zone 7 White Zone 20 Green OLD SOCK RACE Zone 16 28 26 7 20 STEPPIN G STONE DASH Place 1 2 3 4 5 Team Zone 16 Beast s Zone 7 White Zone 26 Monkey Dishwashers Zone 7 Black Zone 16 Red Team Zone 7 White Zone 16 Red Zone 7 Black Zone 19 Blue Zone 26 Grasshoppers Place 1 2 3 4 5 Zone 7 16 7 19 26 Place 1 2 3 4 5 Team Zone 16 Beasts Zone 7 Black Zone 4 Zone 26 Monkey Dishwashers Zone 22 Zone 16 7 4 26 22 Place 1 2 3 4 5 Team Zone 7 Black Zone 19 Blue Zone 16 Red Zone 16 Beast s Zone 22 Team Zone 7 Black Zone 16 Beasts Zone 19 Blue Zone 20 Green Zone 4 Zone 7 16 19 20 4 Team Zone 19 Blue Zone 20 Green Zone 7 Black Zone 28 Charcoal Zone 22 Zone 19 20 7 28 22 TYRE RACE THREE MUG RACE Place 1 2 3 4 5 Zone 16 20 19 7 26 SWORD RACE BALLOON BURSTING Place 1 2 3 4 5 Team Zone 16 Beasts Zone 20 Green Zone 19 Blue Zone 7 Black Zone 26 Monkey Dishwashers HI LO RACE Zone 16 7 26 7 16 WINDSOR CASTLE Place 1 2 3 4 5 Place 1 2 3 4 5 Team Zone 7 Black Zone 16 Beasts Zone 20 Green Zone 16 Red Zone 26 Monkey Dishwashers Zone 7 16 20 16 26 FIVE FLAG RACE Zone 7 19 16 16 22 CHAMPION TEAM: ZON E 7 BLACK Place 1 2 3 4 5 Team Zone 7 Black Zone 20 Green Zone 16 Red Zone 26 Monkey Dishwashers Zone 16 Beasts ■ Jeffrey Braithwaite ■ Samantha Ceccato ■ Amy Farmer Zone 7 20 16 26 16 ■ Shaun Thompson ■ Brenton Ward WINNER OF FITNESS CHEC K AWARD: YASS PONY CLUB Congratulations to all competitors and thank you to Mr Bob Gribbin for scoring at this event C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S N SW PONY CLUB MEM BERS! horsemanship quiz “FIVE WOOLLEN SHOW RUGS TO BE WON” Find the 10 incorrect horsemanship procedures in the cartoon above to go in the draw to win a rug valued at $100.00 Send us your list from 1 – 10 of the ten wrong things you can find in this picture to:The State Coaching Director P.O. Box 2085, WOLLONGONG, NSW, 2500 You will need to include the following: Your full name and address, Phone No. or Mobile, Email address and Club This competition is only open to Financial Members of The Pony Club Association of NSW. All correct entries will be collected and from these the five winners will be drawn. Entries must be received by 18th May, 2007. Winners will be announced in the Next Issue of The PCA NSW Newsletter. can you find 10 things that are wrong in the picture? PCA Membership Survey Around 700 NSW Pony Club Members stood up and were counted in the online survey conducted in 2006. Members of both sexes and all ages provided invaluable feedback for the State Association to now analyse, review and formulate into an implementation plan in the coming weeks. M a n y s u g g es t i o n s were already in the association pipeline, so it was reassuring to know we were on the right track in a number of areas, even before the survey results were known. SURVEY FACT SHEET NO.1 1 731 members completed the survey. 2 14% of respondents are male and 85% female. 3 43% of respondent are students and 46% are working. 4 478 Members responding to the survey have been in Pony Club for under 10 years and 231 have been members for 10 years or longer. 5 In relation to why people join Pony Club, 34% indicated that family (children wanted to join, parents were previously members, family tradition etc) was the main reason for joining Pony Club. 31% indicated that a love of horses was the main reason, 19% joined because of friends and 17% wanted to learn to ride. 6 In relation to why members selected their specific Pony Club, being close to home was the main reason with 36% of responses. Second came ‘friends go there’ at 21%. 7 The social elements 44% (Friendship 25% and mixing with like-minded people 19%) are the main benefits gained from being a Pony Club Member. Competition made up 18% of responses, Learning about Horses 18% and Being a Better Rider 15%. 8 The zone providing the most respondents was Zone 16 with 11 participating clubs and 116 members. Conversely Zone 18 was represented by one club and one member. 9 Whilst ‘Quality of Instructors’ rated 4TH as the reason for joining a specific Pony Club, it is listed as one of, if not the number one, main reason that people leave Pony Club. Coopernook PC Winners Others were fresh, new ideas which will definitely be workshopped at Zone level in 2007 to ensure buy in from all members around the State. These are exciting times ahead for Pony Club Members as we enter a new era which Members themselves have helped shape. Whilst over 800 pages of results from the recent survey are still being analysed, we thought you would be interested in a snapshot of the findings to date across a broad ranges of topics. 10 The main benefits of membership listed in the survey relate to the social aspects of being a Pony Club member. This accounted for 44% of responses (‘Friendship’ and ‘Mixing with like-minded people) The combination of ‘Competition’, ‘Learned about Horses’ and ‘Better Rider’ accounted for the majority of responses at 51% of the total. 11 77% of Pony Clubs do not have a Junior Committee. 12 The Club newsletter is the most used form of communication within clubs, but the website 33% is the most useful resource the Association provides. Congratulations to our prize winners – Coopernook PC for the highest percentage of members responding in the survey, they have won a new showjump from Equestrian Sports Promotions. Toni Cuthbertson won a colourful pair of jodhpurs from Kazjodz and Sandy Simpson won a $100 voucher from Horseland. Thank you to our sponsors who supported this initiative. 14 Word of mouth (39%) and friends introducing new members (35%) are the two most effective ways of attracting new members. To all those who took time out to participate, once again thank you! There is much food for thought in the comments and responses made. 15 51% of club do not organize events or incentives to keep members 14 year of age and over involved in the club. 19% hold special social events. 13 73% of club have not organised a membership drive. 16 58% of Members are happy with the PCANSW website and do not see the need for any improvements but 41 % would like to see some changes. 17 Suggested website changes to date include the website being updated more regularly, make it more interactive, include more pictures, more detailed results information, more detailed event information including site maps and facilities on offer, regular online forums and discussions and facts sheets on relevant topics. 18 Whilst 58% of members believe that information is conveyed effectively from State to grassroots level, 41% believe that it isn’t. 19 75% of Members read the newsletter and 25% do not. The following is a summary of comments made by the ages groups 15-19 and 20-24 year olds, Males and Females, on selected questions: 20 The key changes required for these age groups relate to better instruction/instructors which will impact on making rally days more interesting, fun and beneficial to riders. 21 Rule changes relating to equipment (chaps, gaiters, helmets and Jodhpurs) are areas where they would like to see change. 2006 State Show Riding Championship 18 & 19 November 2006 Glen Innes Showground UNDER 9 YEARS JADE FANGMEIER riding Koorana Desert Charm 9 & U11 YEAR S BRODI E HOWE riding Hidden Secret 11 & U13 YEAR S KATE QUIRK riding Marena Showgirl 13 & U15 YEAR S RENE E JACKSON riding Jamaica 15 & U17 YEARS CAITLIN H OCKEY riding Kirreway Discretion 17 & U25 YEARS AMI E HARRISON riding Ashleigh Debonair Zone 13 Zone 2 Zone 5 Zone 15 Zone 9 Zone 15 WINNER OF FITNESS CHECK AWARD: Z ONE 15 Congratulations to all competitors and thank you to Mr Greg Gall for scoring at this event The good news here for Members is that at the recent Council meeting Riding Trousers were approved for all Club & Zone level competitions with the exception of Dressage, Showjumping and Eventing competitions. The selection of helmet is driven by safety standards, not by overseas fashion. As an organisation with the welfare of 20,000 as its main priority, safety and risk management issues have to be the main concern at all times. 22 There is also a feeling from younger members that they are not listened to or given a forum to express their views within their club. 23 In relation to the website, suggested changes entail more regular updates, a more interactive website with online forums and discussions, more pictures and detailed results information and a club of the month. 24 In relation to ‘name’ and ‘image’, females 15-19 made comments such as they ‘get laughed at’ when they say they are a Members of Pony Club, they are ‘ashamed’, they think the name is ‘too childish’, ‘juvenile’, ‘babyish’ and ‘immature’. 25 Females 20-24 said that the names conjures up images of ‘kids on ponies’ or ‘Saddle Club’. They suggested new names such as ’Young Equestrian Association’, ‘Horse and Pony Club’, ‘Youth Equestrian Association of NSW.’ 26 Males commented that the name is ‘not masculine’ and sounds like a ‘Kiddie Club.’ Following on from the membership survey, PCA is conducting Regional Forums at Wagga Wagga (12 May) and Dubbo (16 June). This is an opportunity for members to voice their ideas for pony club iinto the future. Details are available from the PCA website: www.pcansw.org.au. Thank you to Paula Anthony Photography (Ph 07 5590 0972) Email [email protected] for supplying the photographs for this article 2006 State One Da 14h & 15th October 200 6 RESULTS 12 & U NDE R 15 YEARS NOV ICE A 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th 12 & U NDE R 15 YEARS NOVICE B Emily Pursehouse Chloe Oastler Amber Witts Nicole Smith Elly Hanckel Kirby Delamont Emily Gallagher Paige Hopkins Hayley Menzies Lachlan Green 5 14 5 16 7 10 10 20 11 3 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th Katie Menzies Alicia Whiley Jacqueline Munro Anna Moxham Bronte Broome Lauren Slater Jaimee Herbert Haidee Psaltis Stephanie Edson Allyson Jeffery 11 11 24 5 24 16 5 QLD 12 14 13 & UNDE R 15 YEARS ADVANCED 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th Brittany Grovenor 2 Stephanie Carr 3 Daniel Pye QLD Andrew Cooper 12 Ben Blay 2 Poppy Ellis Southwell QLD Alexandra Wolters Mannix 3 Ashleigh Hockings 7 Georgie Richardson 4 Hannah Hunt 7 15 & U NDE R 17 YEARS NOVICE A 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th 15 & U NDE R 17 YEARS NOVICE B Scott Simpson Karina Cox Madeline Bowditch Ashley Danks Lucinda Hubbard David Inwood Casey Ivey Sarsha Fulwood Jock Blackman Nell Laver 14 23 7 7 5 5 16 5 5 2 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th Laura Rae Enja Prest Jodie Hume Adam Petherbridge Sarah Thompson Ginny Laver Fiona McCaffrey Melissa Simpson Jemma Gunn Alexandra Reid 6 2 21 24 5 2 5 14 7 16 15 & U NDE R 17 YEARS ADVANCED 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th Harriet Moxham Georgia Watson Michelle Carney Gabrielle Brown Megan Dorahy Bonnie Price Sarah Radford Grace Day Lee Yonge Alison Wangman 5 14 7 QLD 23 QLD 5 3 16 3 17 & U NDE R 25 YEARS NOVICE 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th Alycia Elword Alya McIntyre Ceilidh Armer Emily Herbert Jessica Petherbridge Ben Graham Tom Blackburn Elizabeth McRoberts Ellena Fursland Jodie Egginton 17 & U NDE R 25 YEARS ADVANCED 16 QLD 16 5 24 16 5 16 22 23 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th Chris McRoberts Kirstie Fossett Bill Noble Nicole Whittaker Shae Bannister Carly Garside Emma Hansen James Davies Bree Furze Lauren McIntosh 16 QLD 16 3 6 QLD QLD 16 12 16 Event Championship Bicentennial Park, Camden ODE RESULTS AWARDS FOR CLOSEST TO OPTIMUM TIME ON CROSS COUNTRY COURSE U25 Advanced U25 Novice U17 Advanced U17 Novice A U17 Novice B U15 Advanced U15 Novice A U15 Novice B Carly Garside Ellena Fursland Bonnie Price Scott Simpson Jemma Gunn Simone Whaley Nicole Smith Stephanie Davies Hannah Dick ZONE TEAM - Z ONE 16 QLD Zone 22 QLD Zone 14 Zone 7 Zone 4 Zone 16 Zone 16 Zone 25 STATE TEAM - N SW ■ Chris McRoberts – Bungendore Pony Club ■ Chris McRoberts – Zone 16 ■ James Davies – Bungendore Pony Club ■ Georgie Watson – Zone 14 ■ Lauren McIntosh – Kambah Pony Club ■ Harriet Moxham – Zone 5 ■ Bill Noble – Bungendore Pony Club ■ Brittany Grovenor – Zone 2 Congratulations to all competitors and thank you to Mr Greg Gall for scoring at this event 2007 State Dressage 20 & 21 January 2007 Under 13 – Test 1.4 Place 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Name Sarah Raffen Tessa Gunn Taelar Williams Kirsty Field Brodie Howe Caitlin Foulis Hannah Phillips Sarah Lavelle Emily Farr Natasha Anjoul Under 13 – Test 2.1 Zone 19 23 18 16 22 23 24 2 9 23 13 & Under 15 – Test 2.1 Place 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Name Tiffany Bignold Georgie Richardson Anneliese Ball Emma Gittoes Candice McIntyre Alison Gill Sarah North Nicola Gunn Matilda Hartwig Sancha Butler Name Jessica Robinson Harriet Gruen Kimberley Duver Natasha Irwin Jane Leckie Caitlin Hockey Ben Blay Camille Wright Megan Bryant Nicolette Archer Name Aimee Nye Katrina Everitt Alycia Elword Kerri Lee Matthews Marina Douglas Peta Cormack Danielle Boland McElroy Michaela Lloyd Sarah Munro Tara Ryan Zone 2 11 9 16 23 26 20 18 22 16 Place 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Name Tiffany Bignold Emma Gittoes Sancha Butler Candice McIntyre Nicola Gunn Anneliese Ball Stuart Lavelle Maddison Howe Alison Gill April Docherty Zone 26 VIC 26 24 23 24 2 22 16 25 15 & Under 17 – Test 3.1 Zone 16 16 9 10 26 9 2 9 2 16 17 & Under 25 – Test 3.1 Place 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Name Amber Kaveney Hayley Menzies Emily Farr Kelsey Szczepanik Caitlin Foulis Maddison Thorpe Teegan Ashby Kristin Whiting Brodie Howe Molly Hammond 13 & Under 15 – Test 2.3 Zone 26 4 24 4 24 16 26 23 12 26 15 & Under 17 – Test 2.3 Place 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Place 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Place 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Name Kimberley Duver Harriet Gruen Catherine Halstead Jessica Robinson Megan Bryant Rachael Smith Jane Leckie Amy Coassin Vanessa Wright Kaitlin Hewlett Zone 9 16 10 16 2 10 26 23 27 16 17 & Under 25 – Test 3.3 Zone 27 20 16 2 12 26 5 21 24 4 Place 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Name Peta Cormack Lauren Wiskich Kerri Lee Matthews Alycia Elword Stacey McIntosh Marina Douglas Sarah Munro Morgan Burgess Alison Jones Danielle Boland McElroy Zone 26 10 2 16 16 12 24 10 16 5 Championship – Results Exhibition Park in Canberra Champions Zone Team – Zone 16 ■ Under 13 Caitlin Foulis Zone 23 ■ Harriet Gruen – Hall P C ■ 13 & Under 15 Tiffany Bignold Zone 26 ■ Jessica Robinson – Bungendore PC ■ 15 & Under 17 Kimberley Duver Zone 9 ■ Alycia Elword – Gearys Gap PC ■ 17 & Under 25 Peta Cormack Zone 26 ■ Alison Gill – Gearys Gap PC WINNER OF FITNESS CHECK PRESENTATION – ZONE 12 Congratulations to all competitors and thank you to Mr Doug Denby for scoring at this event bits & pieces STATE CHAMPIONSHIP INFORMATION 2007 STATE SHOWJUMPING EVENTS Saturday Sunday AM5, AM5 Grand Prix, Power & Speed 2007 STATE MOUNTED GAM ES EVENTS Postman’s Chase, Old Sock, Hi Lo, Stepping Stone Dash, Tack Shop, Hurdle, Balloon Bursting, Spillers, Three Mug and Five Flag 2007 STATE ONE DAY EVENT DRESSAGE TESTS 12 & U15 Novice: 1.4 13 & U15 Advanced: 2.1 15 & U17 Novice: 2.1 15 & U17 Advanced: 2.2 17 & U25 Novice: 2.2 17 & U25 Advanced: 2.4 NEWSLETTER ADVERTISING RATES (INCLUDING GST) Full page Quarter page Half page THANK YOU TO INSTANT PHOTOS FOR SUPPLYING THE IMAGES $220.00 $88.00 $132.00 These prices do not include typing or art work. Pony Club Efficiency Certificates Progress in Pony Club is recognised by gaining certificates on ability and spor tsmanship. There are eight certificates a rider can achieve D, D*, C, C*, K, B, H and A are all general proficiency certificates. They are gained in order starting from D through to A. The rider’s first introduction to certificates comes with the D Certificate. This is awarded for keenness and encouragement. The candidate must have reached a minimum age of 7 years before examination. The candidate should have attended at least three (3) rally days and have learned about elementary grooming, feeding and general care of a horse as well as basic riding. There is no written paper for this certificate. Specific details regarding the examination for the D certificate are listed below. RIDING ■ Riders should present in full Pony Club Uniform. The pony is to be tidy. ■ Mounting and dismounting. A mounting block may be used. ■ Being legged up. ■ How to hold and use the reins. ■ Capable of starting, guiding and stopping the pony and riding at the walk, rising trot and canter without being led. ■ Road safety rules-know the do’s and don’ts of riding on the road. ■ Take part in simple mounted games & riderexercises. HORSE HANDLING ■ Approach, catch and lead a quiet pony. ■ Tie a pony up with a rope at correct length, preferably to string, using a quick release knot. ■ Let the pony go in the paddock. ■ Give a pony an apple or carrot safely. HORSE CARE ■ Identify and demonstrate use of grooming tools: - ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ dandy brush, body brush, rubber curry comb, hoof pick. Saddle and bridle a pony, with assistance Know the comfortable living conditions for a pony Know what a pony eats and drinks Identify parts of the horse: - Nostril, forehead, eye, ear, muzzle, forelock, crest, neck, mane, shoulder, wither, back, loins, rump, tail, hock, knee, fetlock and hoof. Identify parts of saddlery: - Bridle, bit, reins, cheek strap, browband, nose band, throatlash, saddle, girth, stirrups, pommel, leathers, seat, crupper and surcingle. Know how to wipe dust and mud off saddlery and put away tidily. Most riders’ next move onto the D Gold Star certificate, although this is not compulsory. The candidate must have attained the age of 9 years and have gained further knowledge in grooming, feeding, and care of the horse. Candidates must have control of their ponies and show a more secure and correct position for flat work and jumping. This certificate is an extra activity for any Club wishing to include it in their curriculum and fill in the years from 9 to 12. The D Gold Star is not a prerequisite for any subsequent certificate. There is no written paper required for this certificate. Specific details for the D Gold Star certificate are listed below. RIDING ■ The rider is to be in full Pony Club uniform. The pony is to be tidy. ■ Mount correctly (from a mounting block if necessary). Dismount from either side of the pony ■ Walk, rising trot and canter in a large area, including circles, straight lines and change of direction. ■ Make transitions on command. ■ Trot and canter at varying speeds. ■ Ride with reins in one hand. Hold and use a short whip correctly. ■ Trot on a loose rein. ■ Change trot diagonal on command. ■ Rising trot over poles on the ground in a forward position. ■ Negotiate small jumps of varied design from the trot. ■ Know simple traffic rules when riding on the road. HORSE HANDLING ■ Lead and turn a pony in hand at the walk & trot (with bridle) ■ Pick up and clean out front feet. HORSE CARE ■ Knowledge of basic feeding and care of the pony. ■ Basic care of the feet. ■ dentify parts of the hoof - Wall, frog, sole and heels. ■ Identify the farriers tools - Rasp, hammer, toe knife, buffer and pincers. ■ Identify parts of the horse - Throat, elbow, pastern, dock, coronet, hips, hock, stifle, ribs and cheek. ■ Identify & demonstrate use of: - Dandy brush, body brush, curry comb, hoof pick. ■ Identify parts of the saddle: - Cantle, waist, gullet, stirrup bar & sweat flap. ■ Clean and put away saddlery. ■ Describe the following conditions: - Girth gall, cold, colic and laminitis (founder). GENERAL KNOWLEDGE ■ Know the names of the Club Executive. All riders, parents and instructors are encouraged to own a copy of “Riding’. Indeed anyone from a beginner to an advanced competitor or horse master shall find useful and helpful information within its chapters. The Pony Club Association of New South Wales produces this comprehensive book. Certificate candidates should use this book for reference when studying and training for any certificate level. For specifics on certificate requirements, riders and instructors should refer to the ‘Syllabus of Instruction’ produced by Pony Club Australia. Both the above books can be purchased from the Pony Club Association New South Wales office. Order forms can be downloaded from the PCA website www.pcansw.org.au In the June issue, the C and C Star certificates will be outlined. OLD DOGS, NEW TRICKS and Broadening Horizons Hello Pony Clubbers. I hope everyone got a bit of a break in January because 2007 is already gaining speed. I don’t know if you read the article “A fresh breeze blowing”. If you did you’ll know that my new role in Pony Club is to contribute articles that tackle some lifeissues and to provide opportunities for members to think about the deeper side of life. I’m not planning anything heavy, just some stories and some interesting food for thought. I noticed on our website that Parelli have offered a special deal to pony club members who attend their conference. Don’t get me wrong - I’m not pushing Parelli. I’m a pony club girl through and through but recently I must admit, I tried at a bit of ‘Horse Whispering’. I decided the only way to make up my own mind about all this ‘natural’ stuff was to put my hesitations aside, load the horse in the float and go along for a weekend of new experiences. Well it certainly was different and a famous comic by Gary Larson illustrated my feelings well. Have you seen the cartoon where a dog is nervously tiptoeing on a thin tightrope, which is stretched between two high-rise buildings? In the caption the dog says to himself, “It suddenly occurred to me that I was an old dog and this was a new trick!” Well at times I felt like an old dog learning a new trick, but I had a great time and one of the best things I learned was not actually a horse skill, but a life skill… You can probably understand that when I went along to this ‘natural’ clinic where they did things differently, my biggest concern was that some stranger would say to me that I didn’t really understand horses and I was doing everything wrong. Well thankfully quite the opposite happened. The guy leading the weekend said we should think about all the different things we know about horses, as tools. He said we should try to get as many useful ‘tools’ for our ‘tool box’ as we can. So when we learn a different way of doing something with horses, we don’t throw away all the knowledge (tools) we already have, we just add more... more knowledge, more ideas, more skills and more tools for working with horses. Don’t you think that makes sense for life too? It’s all too easy to get comfortable with what we know, how we do things, and the way we see things. We can be so content with doing things our usual way and seeing things from our usual perspective, that instead of considering new ideas as possibilities and opportunities, we can perceive them as threats. That’s a sad place to get to because it robs us of further learning and new experiences. I hope we don’t let that safe but restrictive way of thinking hold us back. I loved meeting Rosemary at the clinic. She was close to 70, had just bought her first horse a few months earlier and was beaming all weekend because after decades of dreaming she had finally learned to ride. Wow! How wonderful to be on the older end of life but still adventurous enough to try new things and step out of one’s comfort zone. It’s truly never too late to broaden one’s horizons. I wonder if you agree. Do you think our lives become richer when we are open to new ideas that we might not have thought about before? What about if it feels a bit scary? Do you think it would have been scary for Rosemary to canter a horse for the first time at nearly 70 years of age? Here’s another question. How do you feel when people start talking about the spiritual side of life? I wonder if you feel interested and a bit curious, or do you feel uncomfortable and prefer to put the whole idea of spirituality in the too hard basket. If you do you’re not alone. Most people don’t enjoy talking about things they aren’t sure about, and find it simpler to stick to ‘safe’ topics. For example, how many conversations have you had about the weather and if it’s going to rain? You know all good adventures start in the mind. We have to dream something before we can achieve it! I hope you can be adventurous in your mind, and be willing to think about new ideas that might have previously been buried in your ‘too hard basket’… and I am here to help. Wishing you broadening horizons, Karen Moreton Chaplain Karen welcomes your questions and comments. You can email her at [email protected] ALL YOUR EQUINE NEEDS COVERED UNDER THE ONE POLICY Mortality (ASD) including Theft, Transit and Personal Liability at $10m Optional: Saddlery & Tack, Harness Horse Drawn Carriages, Horse Trucks/Floats Contact: Kate Rawlinson or Simon Tait Ph: 02 8224 3999 F: 8224 3998 E: [email protected] Application Form: www.ebminsurance.com.au OUT AND ABO UT ZONE 8 a ro u n d Zone 8 sent seven riders to the NSW State Showjumping Championships held at Dubbo in 2006 during the July school holidays. Each of the riders placed at least one – two placing twice. What an achievement – it is so rare that a whole team takes home a placing. Dick and Gwen together with their son Lindon and his wife Mary, moved to Darbys Falls in 1980 and of course named their property “Charnwood’. Dick and Gwen have been members and patrons of the Cowra and District Pony Club since then. Dick often patiently waiting in the Gemini whilst Gwen saw the last pony out the gate. Dick was known for always having practical tips to the kids. This team consists of remote children who do not get the opportunity to ride every week as five of the riders are boarding away from home or working Pictured are Mrs and Mrs Constance with the President of Cowra PC, Steve Lomas and Cowra’s youngest members, Joshua Dominello and Hannah Keen. Mr Constance must surely be the oldest Pony Club members in New South Wales. An inspiration to us all. L-R Trudi Picton, Lucy Remond, Katie Remond, Rose Picton, Drew Towns, Ryan Towns and Brodie Towns. Dick Constance with wife Gwen celebrates his 100th birthday, making him the oldest Pony Club Member in NSW. COWRA PONY CLUB Mr “Dick’ Constance celebrated his 100th birthday recently. MACLEAY D ISTRICT PC With his wife Gwen, together with Ed, Lucy and Marg Wheatley and Mrs Llewellyn they formed the Weetangera Pony Club in 1958, held at Weetangera. Gwen did an instructor course with Mrs Nicholas in 1962 and was Chief Instructor at Weetangera until 1964 when they sold “Charnwood” and moved in to Canberra. There was a meeting at Willawarrin on the 30 May 1957 with 31 people in attendance to form a pony club. It was agreed that the name would be Macleay District Pony Club (MDPC) in 2006 we had over 100 members. The uniform was to be a white shirt with a bottle green tie and later on a bottle green knitted jumper was introduced the same uniform as worn today. Later together with Mrs Llewellyn they formed the Canberra Lakes Pony Club held at Yarralumla woolshed, as well as the Canberra Riding Club. Gwen was then Chief Instructor at this riding club in 1965 until 1975. They then went on to form Hall Pony Club. Les Carlton and Bob Cameron were appointed leaders of Hall Pony Club with the help of Norman ‘Dick’ and Gwen. After selling the house in Canberra in 1966 they moved to Bungendore and re-named the property they bought ‘Charnwood’. Gwen was then instructor in the Queanbeyan Pony Club until 1980 when ‘Charnwood’ was sold. TURNS 50 The first camp was held on 15 December 1957 at the Kempsey Showground and camps are still held each year with children coming from as far as Sydney to attend. When MDPC was first formed the meetings and competitions where held between the grounds in Kempsey and the grounds at Willawarrin. As time passed all events ended up being held in Kempsey and in recent years Willawarrin has formed a club of their own. To celebrate Macleay District Pony Club’s 50 years the club is holding a luncheon going on into the evening on the clubs and zones Saturday 19 May 2007 followed by a Gymkhana on Sunday 20 May. If you are interested in attending or have any memorabilia that you could lend please call either Cheryl Sutherland 0265 674 325 AH or Margaret Killmore on 0265 674 912 or email [email protected]. We will be looking for addresses to post out invitations so if you could help with any information of ex Pony Club members who have moved away it would be greatly appreciated. Our postal address is MDPC, PO Box 8, Kempsey NSW 2440. days with the good is essential”, she stated, “and to never give up on your dream.” Edwina also believes her parent’s support and belief in her have kept her going through some of the toughest times. Her mother, Jenny, thanked the Club where it all started by saying, “Avondale Pony Club provides a wonderful start for young children to not only learn about riding and competing but also a healthy dose of good sportsmanship which becomes critical to still enjoying the sport as it gets more and more competitive on the way to the top”. Avondale Horse and Pony Club is one of the oldest Pony Clubs in Australia having celebrated it’s 55th Anniversary in 2006. For more information visit www.avondaleponyclub.com.au Macleay District Pony Club on one of there many parades through he Town of Kempsey in the late 1950s. TOP INTERNATIONAL SHOWJUMPER INSPIRES YOUNG RIDERS OVER LUNCH Edwina Alexander is a local girl who’s become an international star in the competitive world of showjumping. Visiting her old stamping ground at Avondale Horse and Pony Club in St Ives this week, Edwina inspired the next generation of ambitious young riders by recounting critical events in her rise to the top. From her beginnings as a child riding at Avondale in the late ’80’s Edwina was recently ranked 4th in the World Equestrian Games held in Europe last year. Avondale members past and present enjoyed a BBQ lunch at the Catherine Street grounds while Edwina told of the sheer determination and absolute focus required to get to the top. While Edwina now enjoys her international status, she warned her audience of enthusiastic riders aged 5 to 25 that the road to the top has been paved with many tough times and incredibly hard work sprinkled with a few moments of glory. “ An ability to take the bad ALL CLUBS AND Z ONES ARE R EQUESTED TO SEN D IN ARTI CLES OR P HOTOGRAPHS FOR THIS NEWSLETTER AND THEY WILL PUBLISHE D IF S PACE PERM ITS. IF YOU COULD E-MAIL THE ARTCILES THIS WOULD BE P REFERRED. Calendar of Events NEW SOUTH WALES STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS 2007 State Sporting & Campdrafting Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd April 2007 Gundagai Showground, Zone 20 Closing date: 9th March 2007 2007 State Jumping Equitation Saturday 19th & Sunday 20th May 2007 Condobolin Showground – Zone 11 Closing date: 6th April 2007 2007 State Showjumping Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th July 2007 Rodeo Park, Grafton - Zone 15 Closing date: 1st June 2007 2007 State Mounted Games 2007 State One Day Event Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th October 2007 Tumbarumba Showground, Zone 20 Closing date: 24th August 2007 Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th October 2007 CSU, Wagga Wagga - Zone 12 Closing date: 31st August 2007 2007 State Show Riding Saturday 10th & Sunday 11th November 2007 Goulburn Showground, Zone 27 Closing date: 28th September 2007 2007 State Jumping Equitation Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th May 2008 Exhibition Park in Canberra Closing date: 4th April 200 8 A full list of schools and clinics for 2007 can be viewed on the PCA website. 2007 PCA INTERSTATE CHAMPIONSHIPS 2007 QLD Jumping Equitation & Showjumping 10th – 13th April at Bundaberg, Qld 2007 VIC Horse Trials 5th – 6th May at Thurgoona, NSW 2007 QLD Dressage & Combined Training 29th June – 1st July at Goombungee, Qld 2007 QLD One Day Event 2nd July at Toowoomba, Qld 2007 QLD Sporting, Campdrafting & Mounted Games 24th – 26th September at Winton, Qld 2007 QLD Zone Teams Showjumping 20th – 21st October at Alton Downs, Qld 2007 QLD Zone Teams Dressage 27th October at Southport, Qld NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS 2007 National Pony Club Championships 1st – 8th July 2007, Toowoomba Showground, QLD 2009 National Pony Club Championships 12th – 18th July 2009, Sydney International Equestrian Centre, Horsley Park, NSW 2007 STATE MEETINGS JULY MEETINGS Zone Chief Instructors 30th July 2007 Council 31st July 2007 Closing date for notices of motion - 11th June 2007 NOVEMBER MEETINGS Zone Chief Instructors 26th November 2007 Council 27th November 2007 Closing date for notices of motion - 8th October 2007 Meetings to be held at Gemini Hotel, Belmore Road, Randwick visit our website @ w w w. p c a n s w. o rg . a u For the latest things happening with your state association...check it out!