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OLDHAM & DISTRICT RIDING CLUBOLDHAM & DISTRICT RIDING CLUBOLDHAM & DISTRICT RIDING CLUBOLDHAM & DISTRICT RIDING CLUB

NEWSLETTER NEWSLETTER NEWSLETTER NEWSLETTER

maymaymaymay 2011 2011 2011 2011

Who’s Who at ODRC

Chair Person Sue Hollingworth 07970 857739 chairman@odrc.co.uk Vice Chair Amanda Godwin 07754 742232 membership@odrc.co.uk Steve Hopkinson 07973 268261 Treasurer Lisa Wake 01457 839919 / 07877 863513 treasurer@odrc.co.uk Secretary Abi Atherton 01457 810211 secretary@odrc.co.uk Membership Amanda Godwin 07754 742232 membership@odrc.co.uk Instruction Krystina Bamber 07970 813193

training@odrc.co.uk Becky Hebb 0161 622 1005 / 07845 016264

Friezland User Group Sue Hollingworth 07970 857739 Arthur Prowse 01457 870407 fug@odrc.co.uk Teams Vicky Hollingworth 07970 857739 Sarah Mottley 07960 510742 teams@odrc.co.uk NLG Rep Arthur Prowse 01457 870407 nlg@odrc.co.uk Newsletter Editor Minda Wigley 01457 870421 newsletter@odrc.co.uk Bridleways Peter Carter 01457 873344 bridleways@odrc.co.uk Website Michael Wigley 01457 870421 website@odrc.co.uk Help Coordinator: Alana Bennett 07872 583182 help@odrc.co.uk Child Protection Haydee Seton-Jones 07734 405258 childprotection@odrc.co.uk

Show Organisers Members Only Novice Lauren Rothwell 07584 301253

Steve Hopkinson 0161 624 5269

noviceshow@odrc.co.uk Show Jumping VACANT

Showing/Working Hunter Tracy Shaw 07927 044804 Norma Roberts 07894 470537

showingAndWH@odrc.co.uk Dressage: Rachel Roebuck 07968 043539 Heidi Newton 07866 673205 dressage@odrc.co.uk Combined Training: Sue Hamer 07889 156171 combinedtraining@odrc.co.uk Jill Bradley ODE: Sue Hamer 07889 156171 onedayevent@odrc.co.uk Sponsored Ride Peter Carter 01457 873344 bridleways@odrc.co.uk Riding Club Camp Sue Hollingworth 07970 857739 Minda Wigley 01457 870421 camp@odrc.co.uk

Other Committee Members: Tim Partridge 07976 561632 Lesley Illingworth 07951 172913 Bridget Tibbot 07814 327016 Denzil Edwards 07899 054799

From the Editor:

Welcome to the May edition of the Newsletter. The season is off to a great start (see the reports from the first 3 events of the year). Items this month include:

• pg 2 Teams update with great news from the Festival of the Hunter at Smallwood

• pg 3 Tales from the Sponsored Ride

• pg 4/5 report and results from the Members Only Novice Show and an update on the Friezland Arena situation

• pg 6 forthcoming instruction opportunities including Cross Country for beginners

• pg 6/7 report and results from the first Dressage Show

• pg 8 a report on Tim Partridge's horse, Sox's tie-back operation

• pg 9 Jacky Knight once again prods us to think – this time about providing for our animals if anything should happen to us

• pg 10 a moving and helpful article from Cathy Heaven on facing the hardest decision about your horse

• pg 11 May and early June show helpers rota along with other requests for help, news of Showjumping practices starting up again and also a showjumping clinic

• pg 12 last but not least the small ads and an article on the Husteads Riding School that you might have missed

• pg 13 entry form for the Pony Club Mini ODE in case you missed the copy e-mailed to you earlier

Over to you ...

items for newsletter

If you have any items you think might be of interest to other members of ODRC please ring Minda on 01457 870421 to tell her what you want to say or e-mail them to newsletter@odrc.co.uk.

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teams update by Vicky Hollingworth

Festival of the Hunter – 16 April 2011 -ODRC reigns supreme again!!

What a fantastic result! Our team in the Festival of the Hunter held at Smallwood on Saturday 16 April won the Senior Novice class (again), and in so doing, have qualified again for the Nationals at Aston-le-Walls**. The team comprised Sue and Vicky Hollingworth, Kathy Bradley and Sarah Mottley. Not only did they win though, ours was the only team that managed to get all 4 members round successfully. Every other team had eliminations, retirements or withdrawals.

It was a beautiful day in the heart of Cheshire and the ground conditions were good. The first 14 fences were quite inviting and fun over undulating terrain, and then came fence 15 .... I remember many years ago Deb Bradbury christened this fence the "Oh Sh*t fence" because it's a ramp up to a pallisade to a drop! And if that wasn't bad enough, fence 16 was worse. Named "the Olympic rings", it involved jumping up two steps, across a short platform to a drop fence and then one canter stride to a "skinny" (which was quite a challenge in a novice class!). It certainly sorted the wheat from the chaff – and our team were clearly the wheat! Well done, team!

The team then competed in the pairs with both Sarah and Vicky coming fourth overall. Sue and Kathy then set out but unfortunately Sue parted company from Xander at a show jumping fence, giving herself a very nasty bruise [Ed: poor Sue, hope it's mending now.]. However she remounted and the pair carried on to complete the course.

The team couldn’t have competed without the efforts of both Minda Wigley and Jacky Knight who stewarded throughout the day and seemed to really enjoy the day out. I would like to thank them both.

[**The only snag about qualifying for Aston-le-Walls is that we need to send a steward. The event takes place near Daventry, Northamptonshire, so if you fancy a trip out please give Vicky Hollingworth a ring on 07773 432471 or Sarah Mottley on 07960 510742 or e-mail teams@odrc.co.uk.]

UPCOMING EVENTS:

If you are interested in joining a team for one of the following team events coming up soon, please contact Vicky Hollingworth on 07773 432471 or Sarah Mottley on 07960 510742 or e-mail teams@odrc.co.uk. [Please note that you need to contact the Teams organisers to notify them of your interest – don't wait for a phone call from them (it's not possible for them to ring all ODRC members to find out who is interested, so do pick up the phone and let them know.)] If you don't want to compete on a team, please come along and support the riders on the day. Moral support is always appreciated.

Team Dressage 18 June 2011 If you are wondering about entering this competition, please note that the venue has been changed. It will now take place at Rochdale, and not at Longton as originally advertised. With luck this will encourage you to join a team as the venue is a lot nearer home – so give Vicky or Sarah a ring on the above numbers. Be aware that this date is the same date as the Beer Walk in case this influences your decision!

Area Team One Day Event - 25 June – Kelsall Hill Area Team Showjumping – 16 July – Longton

For the club to be able to enter area competitions, we must send stewards. Anyone interested in stewarding at these events, please contact Vicky Hollingworth on 07773 432471 or Sarah Mottley on 07960 510742 or e-mail teams@odrc.co.uk.

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sponsored ride – sunday 3 april 2011

The sponsored ride on Sunday 3 April went well. Apart from a couple of light showers the weather was fine with some prolonged sunshine. Eight riders and Richard Grey (Anne Henshall's husband) on his bike met about 9.30 am at Bellevue Farm where Vicky Tibbot set us all up for the day with a stirrup cup - a bit early in the day for me, but I managed to force an excellent glass of Jura malt whisky down. In future I may start all sponsored rides from there!

Starting off at 10am we went by the Saddleworth Hotel and down into Castleshaw, across the Top Bank, up Low Gate Lane to join the Edith Boon bridleway then on down to Dowry reservoir where we were joined by Jane Thornton and three other riders coming from Denshaw. We then proceeded uphill from Dowry to join the Rapes Highway pack horse trail which, after crossing Huddersfield Road, continues across Marsden Moor and down towards the pack horse bridge near to the Hey Green Hotel. We arrived there about 11.50 am and had our lunch break.

The horses had the opportunity to drink and graze for about half an hour, as did the riders. Suitably refreshed we mounted up, crossed the bridge and along the riverside to the Hey Green Hotel, joining the road past the Tunnel End and on to Marsden station, then into the village, passing the church and crossing the A62, then up Old Mount Road where all the horses had a spanking good trot up the hill.

We then walked across the roadway to join the track over the moor towards the Standedge Cutting, all talking about a steady relaxed canter over the moor. It started well but quickly developed into a cavalry charge, accompanied by a chorus of yells and screams which did warn one or two walkers of our approach. We all reached the cutting intact where we had a long wait for Richard to catch up on his bike. We then crossed the A62 by the Floating Light and made our way towards the Horse and Jockey where the group from Denshaw left us to make their way over to Dowry reservoir and then back home. The rest then continued towards Bellevue Farm and then separated to take our individual routes home.

Richard and Ann accompanied me to Diggle and then continued on back to Mossley - a good run out for Richard’s bike!

I think we all enjoyed the ride, horses included. The total time was about 4 hours. The amount raised at the moment is about £240.00, from which donations will be made both to the Air Ambulance and to the Husteads Riding School fund. My thanks to all who took part.

Peter Carter and Bryn

Participants were:

Martha Tibbot and Mischief The group from Denshaw were:

Emma Myatt and Thomas (horses names not known)

Ann Henshall and Arwyn Richard Grey and Bike Jane Thornton Sharon Hardisty and Valentino Jean Marland Marco Andrewcetti and Wexford Ruth Holt

Jane Stringer and Dan Debbie Aspinall

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Members Only Novice Show by Lauren Rothwell, Joint Show Organiser

Yawwwn ... I wake up and make a brew, smiling at the fact the sunshine is streaming through the kitchen window...'its gonna be a good day" I thought to myself.

And WOW by 8am it was glorious to welcome everyone to Friezland Arena for the first show of the season.

Steve Hopkinson, Amanda Rothwell, Rebecca Starling and I, along with willing family members and early competitors, were busy setting up from 8.30am. Helpers included Andrea Harwood, Deb Connell, Lesley Sanders, Bridget Tibbot and Lesley Jackson. Thanks to them we stepped back in amazement when we found we were ready at 9.30am...Early!!!!!! Thanks too to Alana Bennett for being on the ball in getting all the helpers organised.

Vicky Tibbot, who very kindly judges the Members Only Novice Show each year, arrived (looking superb as always) not long after, and we were happy to hand over to her and her assistant, Martha Tibbot.

Vicky conducted the Tack and Turnout, Equitation, Best Riding Club Horse & Working Hunter classes smoothly, professionally and with great feedback to all competitors to maximise their competition experience.

By lunchtime there were a few steaming horses and 'glowing' riders, but true to show etiquette, our judge remained fully jacketed and consequently so did the riders!!!

We are grateful as always to Vicky for her fantastic commitment and truly knowledgeable input on the day.

Vicky left us in the capable hands of the timing equipment, some fresh faces on the helpers front in the form of Carla Richardson & our very valuable gate steward, Jacky Knight.

And then the fun really started!

Everyone was mega-fired-up for the Showjumping part of the show... and we did have a few loose cannons and dramatic dismounts... all quickly attended to by our speedy on-site medic for the day – Debbie - who pronounced them all alive and well...Thank God!!

Once the fireworks and fun were all over there were some quick behind-the-scenes calculations being done in the Secretary's tent to pronounce the overall results and winners for the day. This is always hard as all of the riders deserved recognition for their efforts and enthusiasm during the day.... so Well Done to you all!! However there can be only one Champion who wins the Graham Tibbot Rose Bowl trophy (to be presented at the presentation evening in December) and that was.... Lesley Jackson with her furry friend, Roman!!

In joint Reserve Champion position was Lesley Sanders and Debbie Connell. (The full results for all the classes are given on the next page.) but Well Done to all who took part.

A quick set of thank you's to all who helped and took part and made the show possible - including top class butty-maker who deserves a trophy - Howard Catering.

See you all next year and have a fab season.

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members only novice show 10

april – results

Tack & Turnout

1st Jade Taylor JD 2nd Lesley Jackson Roman 3rd Emily Aylett Blue Boy 4th Debbie Connell Storm

5th Jaquie White Perry 6th Lesley Sanders Sunshine Equitation

1st Lesley Jackson Roman 2nd Debbie Connell Storm

3rd Jaquie White Perry 4th John Thompson Rupert 5th Lesley Sanders Sunshine 6th Emily Aylett Blue Boy Best Riding Club Horse

1st Debbie Connell Storm 2nd Lesley Jackson Roman 3rd Lesley Sanders Sunshine 4th Jaquie White Perry 5th Paula Massey Matri 6th John Thompson Rupert

Working Hunter

1st Paul Dodkins Bronte 2nd Lesley Sanders Sunshine 3rd John Thompson Rupert

4th Jaquie White Perry 5th Lesley Jackson Roman 6th Marco Andrew Cetti Westford Showjumping – Novice - 1'9"

1st Emily Aylett Blue Boy 2nd Jennie Lancashire Georgia 3rd Lesley Jackson Roman Showjumping – Intermediate - 2'3"

1st Lesley Sanders Sunshine

2nd Julie Swindells Dudley 3rd Debbie Connell Storm Showjumping – Open -2'9" 1st Marco Andrew Cetti Westford

friezland arena update

Oldham Council have agreed to continue with funding the maintenance of the arena until April 2012, so giving the Friezland User Group a year in which to sort out a maintenace and funding plan for future years.

Security Alert: On Sunday 10 April at about 5:30, just as the Members Only Novice Show was finishing, a group of some 10 individuals arrived at Friezland car park and, because the Members Novice event was taking place, they were able to gain entry with 4 cars. They parked at the bottom of the car park and began to kick a ball about whilst drinking beer from cans and smoking something other than tabacco.

Dave McNeeny (a member of Friezland User Group and the motivating force behind the creation of the arena) was doing some work in an adjacent field on the other side of the Bridlepath with his wife, Kath and son, James.

Up until this point they did not have a problem. The situation, however, changed very quickly when the group had a change of mood and decided to throw smoke bombs and stun grenades across the Bridlepath and into the field. Their son James particularly was very upset. The effects of what the group did lasted some 15 to 20 minutes from when they started throwing things to when the McNeenys managed to get them to leave the carpark.

The McNeenys have subsequently reported the problem to the police who, of course, are keen ensure the safety of riders, walkers and the community in general.

The police have decided that they want to monitor the site particularly when the car park is open, so the Club has furnished them with a list of event dates for the 2011 season.

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instruction updateinstruction updateinstruction updateinstruction update

Showjumping Clinic – 2 May International Event Rider, Ben Hobday is running a showjumping clinic on Monday 2 May. Ben won the Under 21s National Eventing Championships, and went on to win team Gold and individual Bronze medals in 2008 competing against Europe's best young riders. Lessons will be taking place between 3pm and 7pm approximately.

The clinic is being held at Crown Point Farm, Lydgate (with our thanks to Lesley Illingworth for the use of her facilities). If you are not taking part, do go along and watch to support the members who are having a go. You never know, you might be inspired to take part if Ben comes again at a later date. If you would be interested in participating in a future clinic please ring Becky Hebb on 0161 622 1005 / 07845 016264. [Lessons are £25 per person for an hour's group lesson (3 or a maximum of 4 people per group) or £30 per 45 minutes for a private lesson.] Show Preparation Clinic Following the winter series of articles by Halia Williams giving us pointers on showing, a number of members have expressed interest in a "hands-on" clinic of how to plait up, trim, and all aspects of show turnout. If you would be interested in joining in such a clinic please ring Krystina Bamber on 07970 813193, and if there are sufficient numbers, she will organise a clinic.

cross country training for beginners

Sue Toone (BHSAI) is running a XC clinic for those entering the lowest classes at the PC or ODRC Mini One Day Events but who are nervous or have never done cross country before. Very small fences between 1' and 2', at Castleshaw, near Delph on either or both of Saturday 7 May and 21 May depending on the level of interest. £10/rider - proceeds to Jill Bradley's favourite charities (Riding for the Disabled and Christie's) as Jill was the inspiration for the ODRC Mini ODE. For more information or to book a place contact Sue on 07968 798601.

dressage show – 24 april 2011 by Heidi Newton, Joint Show Organiser

Can Rachel and I say a big thank you to the people who helped us run the dressage show on the 24/4/11.

• Peter Carter, Laura Carter and her other half, Alan Shaw, who all set up for us in the morning.

• Diane Allcock who manned the gate till 2pm and told vehicles where to park - she did a great job, well done and thankyou.

• Tom Guzik. Anne Townsend, Jayne Fielding and friend who did the arena gate and calling in.

• Debbie Connell who helped with reading tests for the competitors and helped me put away.

• Emily Aylett for helping Rachel with the scoring.

• And a big thanks to Jayne Owen for helping me in the tent, helping with setting up and scoring - fantastic job, and Jackie Horrocks for rescuing the rosettes (we forgot them on the morning!)

A big thanks again to you all for making it a great day. The show would not run with out your help. Credit to you all from me and Rachel and the club.

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dressage show - 24 april 2011 - results Beginners Intro B

1st Lucinda Markendale Amos 65.21%

2nd Hayley Baker Brenandante rpb 63.04%

3rd Sarah Cheetham Echo Lady 60.00%

3rd Jade Taylor JD 60.00%

5th Janice Collins Apache Paddy 59.56%

6th Nicola Gregory Bounty 58.69%

Junior Prelim 4

1st Emma Stewart Tia Rose 75.45%

2nd Martha Tibbot Mischief Maker 65.45%

3rd Matthew Fancy Millstone Lass 63.63%

4th Jayne Longdon Dawn 61.81%

Senior Prelim 4 Class A

1st Jayne Romanczuk Jimmy 75.00%

2nd Caroline Coldwell Yogi 68.63%

3rd Minda Wigley Claude 66.61%

4th Deborah Connell Storm Chaser 65.45%

5th Laura Carter Arizona 65.00%

6th Janet Shaw Ballard 60.45%

Senior Prelim 4 Class B

1st Sarah Coldwell Risiko 71.36%

2nd Lauren Rothwell Apollo XII 67.27%

3rd Kim Salmon Billy 60.91%

4th Rebecca Starling Rheingold R 60.45%

5th Carla Richardson Corker 58.18%

6th Samantha Bentley Beanie 57.73%

Junior Novice 28

1st Martha Tibbot Mischief Maker 63.75%

Senior Novice 28

1st Jayne Romanczuk Jimmy 76.66%

2nd= Sue Howes Ralph 67.92%

2nd= Katie Stafford Mac 67.92%

4th Minda Wigley Claude 67.50%

5th Krystina Bamber Big Time Brody 67.08%

6th Rebecca Starling Rheingold R 65.42%

6th Kim Salmon Billy 65.42%

Elementary 44

1st Lesley Illingworth Hugo 69.02%

2nd Sue Howes Ralph 67.60%

3rd Katie Stafford Mac 60.80%

4th Katherine Fitzpatrick 56.00%

Medium 71

1st Lesley Illingworth Hugo 64.19%

2nd Katie Stafford Mac 54.84%

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Odds and Sox by Karen Partridge

Tim Partridge's horse, Sox, began developing noisy breathing problems during 2010. The vet eventually indicated that a "tie-back" operation was needed and here Karen tells us how it came about, how it went and reports on Sox's progress since the operation.

During the summer of 2010, there appeared to be a general deterioration in Sox’s breathing although she continued to work hard and gave 100% effort. October saw a visit from the vet, Peter Fenton. who undertook a thorough examination including exercise testing following which a scope was performed to find a stage 4 occlusion (Ed: blockage or closing) of the larynx. To both Peter’s and Tim’s amazement in light of how advanced this was, Sox continued to work to her full ability. She was referred to Liverpool where we had a family day out so she could be assessed for surgery.

It was a lovely autumn day and everyone bar Ebony (Karen's pony) and Xena (their dog) piled into the landrover and trailer for the adventure that lay ahead. Sox travelled well and we arrived at Liverpool, Tim obviously feeling quite nervous at this point. The receptionist was lovely and put us at ease, and we were introduced to the attending vet who took Sox into the assessment area, repeated the scope which confirmed Peter’s findings. We watched the whole procedure on screen (better than "Corrie" on a Friday night) and a thorough explanation with treatment options were given. The pros and cons of the surgery were explained at length and it was decided to go ahead with the Hobday Tie back and laser due to the severity of the damage already noted. There was a chance that total paralysis could occur to the larynx although it was explained that this was rare. Consent form signed and Sox tucked up into her temporary abode, we left her in the capable hands of the Liverpool staff.

Surgery was performed the following day with great success and no complications whatsoever. A repeat scope the day following surgery showed that the occlusion (blockage or closing) was now a grade 1 (reduced from grade 4), however we were prepared for this to slightly deteriorate at the follow up review.

Two days later Sox came home feeling a little sorry for herself but nevertheless she was home safe and sound. She commenced her prolonged box rest which she didn’t mind too much as the weather had turned by now and all the other horses were in anyway. Her feeding regime was unchanged but she was to be fed from the ground, inclusive of a course of bute and antibiotics which she suddenly got wise to and stopped eating her hard feed (clever girl), which left poor Liz to syringe bute to a 20 ft horse and Tim to play Florence Nightingale and administer the antibiotics into Sox’s bum (ouch - very skinny bum at the time I may add).

The wound healed well. Peter took the clips out 10 days post surgery and returned at week 5 to repeat the scope. To all our surprise, things had improved so much that the grading was below 1. Light work could commence - or was that battle commence - with Tim walking Sox out on Quarry Road and Sox decking Tim with her back legs. Tim learnt a great lesson - apply your battle armour first before leading out your horse which has been confined to barracks for many weeks. Sox’s rehabilitation saw some amusing sights with her dancing on ice like bambi, and falling on ice like a lead balloon.

The worst is over now and Sox is back in work and so is Tim. She is applying herself to work, much more laid back if that is possible and less noisy too which is not always a good thing in the thick fog at Highmoor. So watch out all you fellow show jumpers this season!!!! Many thanks to all those well wishers and people involved in Sox’s care, directly and indirectly. Certainly, if anyone has a horse who requires this surgery go for it - the results are remarkable.

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where there's a will – there's hay – or is there?? by Jacky Knight

It is pretty common these days for ‘ladies’ to not necessarily lie about their age but to be a little economical with the Truth and I am no exception. This year I approach a BIG ‘0’ birthday but I’ll leave you to decide which one. I will however volunteer that I am a ‘Mature’ rider but not yet ‘pensionable’, a time of life that makes you think about writing a will, or in my case updating my existing one. I’ve had the same unaltered will for years having had the foresight to write one when I bought my first house but, having seen first hand the time, effort and trauma involved when a relative died ‘intestate’, I thought it was time to bring mine up to date. My relative was unable to access any of her husband's money or manage his estate for months whilst everything was put through probate. Not really a problem when you only have Money, Goods and Chattels to deal with, but what would happen if animals were involved? An out of date will is almost as ineffective as no will at all, especially as mine was written before I took up horses and riding. Having fallen off Harvey again this week and seen/heard of a few other falls from around the Club, I began to ponder my own mortality - whether I would live long and prosper, and so outlive the horse, or succumb to that final and fatal fall and the horse outlive me. I’ve seen a couple of adverts lately prompting us to look at provision for our horses and other pets should anything (god forbid) happen to us. The youngsters among you would no doubt not even give these adverts a second glance safe in the knowledge that you will more than likely outlive your animals. I ask you to reconsider. What will happen to your faithful friend if you are no longer there to care for him? You would hope that the good nature of friends, family and fellow riders would ensure his immediate welfare, but what about the immediate cost of upkeep - who pays? And what about his long term future - is he to be sold, retired, passed on to relatives etc. I have therefore made the ultimate commitment to my horse, Harvey and have written him into my Will. No I haven’t left everything to him; I’m not sure what he would do with a house and a few bits of jewellery, but I have stated who is assigned to look after him and set aside an amount of money from the sale of goods and chattels for at least 6 months upkeep. Pity I haven’t done the same for the ‘Hubby’

reminders

2 May Ben Hobday Showjumping clinic at Crown Point Farm, Lydgate (should be worth watching if you are not participating – see pg 12)) 4 May Showjumping Clinic with Lauren Rothwell at Friezland (see pg 12) 8 May Ridden & In Hand Showing & Working Hunter Show 11 May Showjumping practices start again at Friezland (see pg 12) 22 May Showjumping Show 25 May Showjumping practice at Friezland (see pg 12) 4 June Pony Club Mini One Day Event, Pony Club Field, Platting Road, Scouthead 5 June Dressage Show 8 June Showjumping practice at Friezland (see pg 12) 26 June Ridden & In Hand Showing & Working Hunter

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Making the hardest decision by Cathy Heaven

Last month I had to make one of the hardest decisions of my life. The decision to have Jolly put to sleep. There are many articles written in the horsey press about this ~ but nothing really prepares you for just how hard it is. Minda asked me to write this article to share my experiences and encourage others making such decisions to feel able to talk about them.

Some of you may remember that Jolly was diagnosed with Navicular disease (or Navicular Syndrome) just 1 year ago, before camp. He received the usual 6 month initial treatment and was rehabilitated back into work over a 3 month period. Unfortunately Jolly went lame again in the Autumn, after just a month of full activities. After secondary treatment he went through a slower rehabilitation, and I got back to riding in February ~ just over 4 weeks later he went lame again. This is what Navicular is like ~ it is a degenerative disease with no known cure. For some the treatments work almost miraculously, and the horse may be fit and experience no further problems for many years, or sometimes never. For others, like Jolly, the treatments available are less successful.

Having had 2 months riding in a year and, knowing that further treatment was unlikely to be any more successful than what we had tried so far, I faced a difficult choice. I knew Jolly was in pain whenever he walked down hill, and also that he was likely to be experiencing other pain without complaint ~ but I did not know exactly how much.

What made things most difficult was the fact that I had several choices; try again with treatment, use bute and ride on, turn him away for a few months and let him enjoy the summer, or take the decision now. I know of people who had taken all these options, and I know none of them are “wrong” … but how do you choose which is best for you and your horse. If only we could ask the horse how they felt.

Weighing up this choice when nobody can tell you is really tough. What helped me was the knowledge that if my vet and my friends truly felt I was doing the wrong thing … they would have told me. In the end it is a decision you make alone ~ nobody makes the decision for you, and nobody will advise you one way or another. Therefore, all you can ever do is what you personally believe is the best for both your “best friend” and equally importantly, for you. For me last month, this meant being very brave and making a very tough decision, and letting Jolly go.

Now 2 weeks on, I know I made the right choice for us (Jolly and me). Yes I have days when I still feel guilty, and of course I miss him, but I know that even though it was tough, and even though I was devastated, I got the decision right. What I have recognised through my experience is how important it is to be brave and face the decision, not to shy away and protect yourself by avoiding it. For me looking after Jolly’s needs and protecting him from unnecessary pain was my job … right up until the end.

(Ed: Thanks for that, Cathy. I hope this article will help others to be brave enough to do as you have done and make the right decision when the time comes and not, as you say, protect themselves by avoiding it.)

plea from the dressage organisers

Rachel Roebuck and Heidi Newton politely request that members entering the Dressage Shows get their entries in before 5.30pm on the closing date. Entries were being delivered by hand as late as 8.30pm on the closing date for the April show, which is cutting it a bit fine! There were so many entries for the show that the day threatened to be too long and there was a risk that entries would have to be turned away – so don't risk that happening to you. Make sure you get your entry in early!

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helpers rota for forthcoming shows

Just because your name doesn't appear below, doesn't mean you can't help! You will be very welcome at any show – too many helpers are far better than too few! Those of you whose names appear below should expect a call from Alana Bennett, our new Helpers Coordinator. Ridden & In Hand Showing & Working Hunter Show – 8 May 2011 Jacky Knight Denzil Edwards Paul Dodkins (a.m.)

Lesley Sanders Lesley Jackson Helen Howard-Smith

Showjumping Show – 22 May 2011 EmilyAylett Vicky Hollingworth Tim Partridge Bridget Tibbot

Sarah Cheetham Heather Marshall Claire Richardson Lesley Frankland Sarah Mottley Natalie Shannon Sue Hollingworth Karen Partridge Graham Tibbot

Please note helpers are needed at 8am for setting up. Thanks.

Dressage Show – 5 June 2011 Marco Andrew-Cetti Elizabeth Kershaw Zoë Hepworth Julie Swindells

help needed for showjumping show 17 July 2011

As we still have no volunteer to run the Showjumping Show on 17 July it is even more important than ever that we have enough volunteers to help with jobs thoughout the day. If you are willing to give up some time to help before, during or after the show, please contact Sue Hollingworth on 07970 857739 and let her know when you are prepared to help and for how long.

treasurer vacancy

After four years of sterling service to the Club, our Treasurer, Lisa Wake, has given notice of her pending retirement from the job. We offer Lisa our hearty congratulations as she is giving up the post because she is having a baby. Lisa has very kindly offered to provide full training to her successor so if you are good with money and could help the Club in this capacity, please give Lisa a ring on 07877 863513 or ring Sue Hollingworth on 07970 857739. If you are hesitating about offering, give Lisa a ring and have a chat about it.

showjumping practices to start 11 may

Starting from Wednesday 11 May Rachel Roebuck will be running fortnightly showjumping practices on the field at Friezland for a small charge of £3 per rider. For the first hour from 6.30 to 7.30 jumps will be smaller, up to 2'9". From 7.30 onwards the jumps will be 3' and over. So don't miss this great opportunity to get in some extra practice in advance of the showjumping competitions, and our thanks to Rachel for providing this facility. The next two practices will be on 25 May and 8 June. Ring her on 07968 043539 for more info.

Jumping and flatworkTRAINING

Lauren Rothwell, BHSPTC, is running a Showjumping clinic at Friezland on Wednesday 4 May. Lessons are £10 per rider for ½ hour, or £5 per rider for a shared or group lesson. Anyone interested please contact Lauren on 07584 301253. Lauren is also available for flatwork lessons by appointment. Ring her on 07584 301253 to make arrangements.

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small ads

HORSEBOX FOR SALE (price now reduced): 7.5t Ford Iveco Eurocargo 75E15. Well maintained and regularly serviced. Just had full service (March 2011). Plated until July 2011 - no issues found when serviced that should stop it flying through plating when due. Tax until end June 2011. Been in use throughout winter. Tilt cab. Lorry re-painted 2010. Ramp refurbished 2009. All new brakes 2 years ago. 4 new tyres autumn 2010. Always maintained regardless of cost and receipts to prove. Batteries good - has always started first time. Takes 3 horses. Adjustable partitions with rubber skirts. Solid floor with double rubber matting on top. Horse area height is approx 7.5ft. width is 8.8ft approx. Basic day living - gas cooker/sink/seating/saddle and bridle racks/cupboards and laminate floor. Pregnancy forces sale. Ready to go for the show season. £4,250 ONO. Look on www.odrc.co.uk to see a photograph and contact Lisa Wake to view on 07877 863513 or 01457 839919.

SHOWING ITEMS FOR SALE

• Regent ladies' long black riding boots Size 7, excellent condition £45

• Regent men's long black riding boots size 9½ as new, together with man's Pitchley black wool riding jacket also as new XXL/48" chest. £95 for the two.

• Dressage markers, metal, never used £25

• Masta waterproof exercise sheet, blue, hardly used, size 37", £10

• Ladies' Gorringe cream jodhpurs as new, 28" waist, long leg, together with Caldene ladies' cream breeches slightly marked. £35 for the pair.

Contact Jane on 07905 405063

STABLES & GRAZING FOR RENT 4 stables available for rent in the Carrbrook area of Stalybridge. The farm backs on to the Roman Road for safe hacking away from traffic. £15/week for stable & grazing. For more information contact Joyce on 07944 341633

DRESSAGE SADDLE FOR SALE OR EXCHANGE British Dressage saddle 17½" medium/wide, black for sale or preferably exchange. Contact Joyce on 07944 341633

RUGS WANTED If you have any spare or second hand summer and/or winter turnout rugs size 6'3" or 6'6" Joyce would love to hear from you on 07944 341633. They are for a new horse – and typically (!) all her existing rugs are too big for him.

This article appeared in The Saddleworth Independent Issue 14 April 2011. I include it here in case you missed it.

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SADDLEWORTH & DISTRICT PONY CLUB

SATURDAY 4TH

June 2011

MINI ONE DAY EVENT

Further forms maybe downloaded from our website http://www.pcuk.org/Branch-

Websites/saddleworth/Saddleworth-District-Branch.html

Saddleworth & District pony club are holding a one day event Dressage/Show jumping/Cross-country to be

held on the pony club field Platting Road.

• Open to all members & non-members competitors will complete a dressage test followed by a show

jumping course and finally a cross country element.

• Body protectors must be worn for the cross-country element

• Prizes for winner of each class and rosettes to 6th place.

• This event is intended to be run as a fun day for members & non-members.

• Event to start at 10.00 am

• Any enquiries regarding the event please contact Stacey on 07749314791

First aid will be on site the organisers of this event have taken reasonable precautions to ensure the health and

safety of everyone present. For these measures to be effective, everyone must take all reasonable precautions

to avoid and prevent accidents occurring and must obey the instructions of the organisers and all officials and

stewards

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Class 1 Beginners

Dressage pony club D level 2 (obtainable at www.pcuk.org, documents-tests-basic test for younger members)

Showjumping & timed crosscountry (fences not to exceed 1ft 9, this class is to encourage younger members

& first timers to have a go so most fences will be below this level)

*********************************************************************

Class 2 Pre-Novice

Dressage Prelim 12

Showjumping & timed crosscountry (fences not to exceed 2ft 3)

*********************************************************************

Class 3 Novice

Dressage Novice 20

Showjumping & timed crosscountry (fences not to exceed 2ft 9)

*********************************************************************

Pony Club/Riding Club Member £15.00/Non Members £18.00

Entries close Tuesday 31st May 2011

Times available on website & by calling Pat Dewhurst on Thursday 2nd

May between 8.00pm & 10.00pm

0161 681 6338

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Entries to Pat Dewhurst 39 Stamford Drive, Woodhouses, Failsworth M35 9WS

Rider

Contact No

Horse/Pony

Class

Member No

Fee

Cheques Payable to Saddleworth & District PC