Our six riders won a colourful haul of ribbons and prizes in the event despite the dreadful weather conditions. The Strathallan squad, which included Lexi Hope, Georgia Verissimo, Ellen Thompson and Toni Glossop enjoyed excellent results, finishing third overall in the team standings.
Additionally, two other Strathallan students, Georgia Lynch and Ella Wallace, were part of a composite team who secured fourth position in the day’s contests.
While everyone rode incredibly well, one of the star competitors was Lexi Hope who took top honours as Champion on the Flat in the Maiden ring.
Another standout performer in the Novice ring was Year 8 student, Georgia Lynch, who was awarded Reserve Champion in the Flat Class and Overall Champion in the Jumping Class with her pony Caz.
Described as the best Christmas gift she has ever received, Georgia and Caz have been together for two years, and have been working hard to improve their skills at both the Hunua Pony Club and at home with assistance from Dad.
“I began to do a few little competitions for Hunua, which I always came out of with a smile on my face and something to improve on at home,” says Georgia. “When I competed in the Intermediate Schools Ribbon Day for Strathallan last year we came out of it with a few colourful ribbons and, once again, more to work on… and that was what it was all about!
“A year later I was back there again participating in the same competition, but this time in Year 8. I was in the Novice ring and received Reserve Champion on the Flat and Champion in the Jumping.”
Although the ribbons provided much-appreciated recognition for her hard work and training, Georgia also includes competing somewhere new, gaining valuable experience and supporting fellow riders among her highlights from the event.
“I loved being able to catch up with my friends throughout the day, to watch them compete and to see how they were going,” she explains.
“I almost wish I could be Year 8 again next year so that I could still compete in the Intermediate Schools Ribbon Day!”
