Competitors enjoyed the great atmosphere at an arena challenge event organised by Sarah Metcalfe at the impressive venue at Nord Vue Equestrian, Armathwaite, on Saturday and Sunday.
It had originally been planned as a one-day event but such was the level of interest that Sarah decided to spread it over two.
Each competitor was given a specific time to warm up and compete, so everybody was spread out to help prevent transmission of coronavirus.
For the same reason there were no toilet facilities, only three people were allowed in the collecting ring, with no grooms in the ring, a one-way system operated in the arena and there was no awards ceremony — all of which worked well.
It was a technical course including skinnies and spooky fillers. A combination of show and working hunter pony jumps worked nicely and meant that any rider achieving a clear round had done well.
Winners received a body warmer sponsored by Richard Chalmers Training Solutions, with second placed riders getting a hat donated by Chris Hartley Equestrian.
Rosettes for Saturday were sponsored by ALT Equine, Gareth Lacey Haylage, Crackenthorpe Stud and Chris Hartley Equestrian.
The class for beginners proved popular with young riders, as well as older ones on young ponies. There were wins for Chris Grant and Olivia Doyle.
The 50cm was a step up for lots of riders but there were many smiling faces. Charlotte Heslop and Olivia Doyle were the winners, with Lara Pallister and Shirley Sadler taking the honours in the 60cm.
The 70cm was an exciting class, being the largest on Saturday and Sunday. The winners were Jackie Hartley and Caitlin Gribbon. The 80cm was also very competitive, and winners were Jackie Hartley and Maisie Greening.
Thanks went to support team members Heather Beedie, Sarah Rawlings, Sarah Robinson, Chloe Metcalf, Olivia Ullyart, Olivia Beedie and Hannah Hilland. Competitors were fed and watered by Saddlebacks.
The next arena challenge at Nord Vue will be held on 16th August, with entries already full, and there will be dressage on the 29th.
