Pony club impressed by turn out for Blanch Trophy Day

Gunnedah and District Pony Club hosted its annual Greg Swain Memorial Showjumping, Dressage and Blanch Trophy Day weekend on May 20 and 21, at Gunnedah Showgrounds, with great weather making for ideal riding conditions.

Gunnedah Pony Club president Bernie Martin said the club had been very well supported over the course of the weekend and with only the second competition back after COVID, the entry numbers were pleasing.

The event attracted 40 dressage and 52 show jumping entries on Saturday and 85 rider nominations for the Blanch Trophy Day on the Sunday in all age groups, from the little on-lead riders through to the older more experienced riders in the associate age.

“We were impressed with the turnout and quality of riders and the sportsmanship shown between all the age groups,” Bernie said.

“A massive thankyou to all clubs that helped run the sporting events on Sunday and offered help throughout the weekend – it makes a great relaxing weekend when we can all get in and help each other out.”

Riders travelled from far and wide to compete at the Gunnedah event, including Armidale, Mount Sugarloaf, Murrurundi, Nundle,Coonabarabran, Garah, Boombi, Barraba, Nyngan and Walgett.

“Many thanks to Peter and Chareti Swain for presenting ribbons and prizes to our placegetters on Saturday and congratulations go to all riders,” Bernie Martin said.

In the dressage events the under 7 champion was Jade Cooper of Gunnedah, with Isabelle Amos of Kootingal, named champion in the seven years to under nine division, while Gunnedah’s Belle Nichols was the reserve champion.

The nine years and under 11 champion was Claire Ellison (Gunnedah), with the reserve champion Aimee Hobden (Gunnedah).

Scone’s Taylah Gunn was named champion in the 11 years and under 13 events, with Chelsea Amos (Kootingal) the reserve champion.

The 13 years and under 15 champion was Haydie Robinson (Moree), with the reserve champion Emily Hatton (Kootingal). Bianca Tanner (Mt Sugarloaf) was named champion in the 15 years and under 17 division, with Courtney Hobden (Gunnedah) the reserve champion.

The associate champion was Stephanie Skewes (Tamworth) and reserve champion Elsa Hudson (Kootingal).