From 29th Dec 2024 to 4th January 2025, 61 equestrians from 2 to 25 years gathered at the magnificent Glen Innes Showground for a week of horsemanship and friendship. Sportsmanship and citizenship are core values of the Pony Club. ‘Retired’ equestrians, including Grandparent, Parents and Volunteers are as much a part of this annual event as the riders. For nearly 70 years these loyal helpers help set up Judges’ tents, sound equipment, arenas, jumps, poles and barrels and then quickly dismantle them. Meals are provided by a band of dedicated people.
All abilities join together from tiny tots to our very own National Champion, to learn new skills, improve on existing techniques and to compete in various events. Troops are formed. Dressage, Jumping, Camp Drafting, Bonfield Bounce, Barrel Racing Sporting and games, both on and off horses fill the week, allowing the riders to choose to engage in any or every discipline.
Feeding, watering, grooming and cleaning out the horse stalls is a daily activity, reinforcing the need to care for one’s horse in every way. Friendships are made and renewed as riders travel from as far away as Blackall and Boorowa to attend.
The Zone 13 Jamboree will be held at the Glen Innes Showground from Friday 10th to Sunday 12th January and already has 120 riders registered. This will be a spectacle not to be missed.
Ribbons and trophies are wonderful but so is the chance to improve their own skills, learn how to get along with many other children and to appreciate the discipline of turning up for your events on time!
The level of intergenerational support that makes the Glen Innes Pony Camp such a resounding success has to be seen to be believed. Hear hear to the Grandparents, Parents and Volunteers who make this wonderful Pony Camp happen every year.
Three cheers for all the riders, well done!!
