Gunnedah wins Rex Waterhouse Zone 5 Shield at Jamboree

Gunnedah and District Pony Club hosted the 2022 Zone 5 Jamboree last week, the first time jamboree has been held in Gunnedah for 15 years.

The event proved a very successful jamboree for the club, which claimed the Rex Waterhouse Zone 5 Shield, and four highest point-scorers from any one club in Zone 5, after accumulating  140 points, with Henry Maslen (42.5), Hallie Thomson (34.75), Aston Maslen on (34) and Briana Guy (28.75).

After the event had been cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to COVID restrictions, the club was ecstatic to finally be able to host the 62nd jamboree.

There were 94 riders competing from clubs across Zone 5, including Gunnedah, Boggabri, Coonabarabran, Wee Waa, Narrabri, Tamworth, Kootingal, Manilla and Barraba, with the two days of competition hailed a resounding success.

From mounted games to showjumping, dressage to barrel racing, the jamboree was jam packed with action, with the future stars of the equestrian world and their faithful steeds competing at an exceptionally high calibre.

Gunnedah and District Pony Club president Flo Palmer said everyone had a wonderful time.

“The weather held off and we had a fabulous two days of competition and fun,” Flo said.

“We had 18 riders from Gunnedah who did really well, with some high point scorers as well.

“I am so proud of our club. Everyone stepped up and helped which made for a successful jamboree. It was a huge effort.”

Gunnedah’s Jessica Swain took out the Bob McKinnon Saddlery Trophy for junior one-day  eventing, while  Henry Maslen won the highest point score overall junior boy title with 42.5 points.

The 11 years and under 13 years highest point score awards for both boys and girls were Gunnedah riders, Hallie Thomson on 34.75 points and Henry Maslen with 42.5.

Gunnedah riders also placed third in the TJ Campbell Memorial junior team of four riders.

Consisting of Caitlin Guy, Eloise Maslen, Hallie Thomson and Briana Guy, the team of young women rode exceptionally well.