From Friday Septmber 5 to Sunday September 7, 2008, Kangaroo Island Pony Club hosted a teaching clinic with Noel Vears, an instructor visiting from the mainland, and who is well known to the club and its riders.

Over the three days, 33 riders and their horses participated in the clinic, with many riders booking several lessons during his time here. The Pony Club also had a Long Rally on the Sunday, which was well attended with more than 30 riders, children and adults, of all levels participating.

It is great to see so many riders, of all ages, out enjoying their horses at the Rallies and associated events – let’s hope it continues!

Over the course of the clinic, Noel had riders doing a mixture of both flatwork and jumping, with many of the younger riders performing tricks, such as standing in the saddle, vaulting off their pony backwards, and other gymnastic tricks. Several of the older (more mature) riders continued to work with Noel on various flatwork routines, and also some fun formation riding in groups.

Riders were challenged in many ways, but all finished their lessons with a smile on their faces, with some hot and sweaty ponies at the end.

Riders attending the rally on Sunday had two lessons during the day, one of which was with Noel. Riders were working on flat work, and also some cross country – it was great to see Cindy’s group with Maddy, Ruby and April jumping in pairs and then as a three over the barrels, and having so much fun with their horses.

KIPC has its 40th anniversary celebration with a weekend of events on the October Long Weekend – a Dressage competition on Saturday, and Show Jumping and Hack Ring on the Sunday, with a dinner on the Saturday night.