Oh what a day !
The final Route preparation and clearance was carried out two weekends before by volunteers taking on over-growth , ensuring the course was safe and enjoying the off-road experience by Landrover in warm and very pleasant, dry weather.
Complacent in the knowledge that since organising our first Sponsored Cross Country Horse Ride in March 2002 and ever since having had fine weather, the day of the ride was organised. Sheep were moved from the field for parking and the route marked out using our ingenious system of paper plates with arrows, turned to direction and stapled to posts.
At 8am the Steward briefing and then the weather broke and the rain set in. We were warned but it wasn't our fault the weathermen got it right!
Riders started to arrive and Stewards apprehensively took up positions to grin and bear it magnificently, like woodland folk in makeshift bivvies (the unlucky ones sheltered in vehicles).
The first riders started out and returned cold and wet but still smiling. The second group returned with relief, glad that they had managed to follow the tracks of the first riders. Our trusted paper plate markers had disintegrated.
The weather and conditions continued to deteriorate and the Trustees eventually took the decision to close the course on safety grounds. The going became too slippery and attending an incident could not be guaranteed. Fortunately this only meant that a couple of keen riders who turned up had to be refused entry and they readily accepted the decision.
Although the rain dampened the riders it did not dampen their enthusiasm for participating in this very special off-road event. Despite the drizzle and the chill in the air, this year’s annual horse riding event was again a success for all those that took part. Nearly forty riders completed the course and received their rosettes and, as in previous years, thoroughly enjoyed the ride.
However, those who should be awarded a medal are the Stewards. Without them the ride could not have taken place. The job is expected to be carried out come rain or shine, but that day was almost beyond the call of duty. Our grateful thanks to everyone who helped make the day. We look forward to sunshine next year.
