Simon Woodford driving Holly.
CARRIAGE DRIVINGTHE second event of the indoor driving trials season was held at Brickfields in December, with ten competitors taking part.
Once again Simon Woodford, driving Chris James’s pony Holly, won the novice pony class.
Pam Evans took the novice horse class with Julie Hoskyns winning both the pairs and multiples classes.
Fiona Paxton, driving Robert Young’s pony Ruby, won the club class. A special mention must go to Fiona and Robert as they really made an effort to bring a taste of Christmas to the event. The pony and carriage were covered in tinsel and decorations and Fiona was dressed as Father Christmas.
After the three phases (dressage, cones and obstacles) of the main event were finished and places awarded, a new, exciting, separate competition was run. This consisted of a combination of cones and obstacles driven in order as a speed round. All competitors drove the course twice, the fastest round the course, driven in the correct order and with no penalties, was the winner.
It was extremely fast and fun for all who took part, including the ponies, with lots of cheering from the crowd and loud music to create an exciting atmosphere.
First place went to Simon Woodford, driving super-speedy Holly, beating his nearest rival by more than 20 seconds, once penalties had been added.
This part of the day was thoroughly enjoyed by all and it is hoped it will be run at the two remaining events of the season. The next will be on Sunday, January 24, at Brickfields.