On Saturday 25th May, the 'Forest' went to Windsor. Six lorries, and other assorted vehicles carrying New Forest Ponies and their riders, grooms etc, arrived at the Windsor International Horse Trials. We were given a very official looking programme, and there we were, Saturday 1230 pm in the main ring titled 'The New Forest Pony Action Display'. Terrifying responsibility! It was very windy with a few heavy showers, but the ponies took it all in their stride.

First into the ring, lead by Mr Brian Ingram (Head Agister of the New Forest) on Fiddlers Bruno, were the Colt Hunters, who gave an exciting demonstration of the use of the hunting whip, with plenty of galloping and quick turns.

Next into the ring came Gail Brownrigg with her pony Tildiz Tobacco Leaf, giving a driving display, before executing a quick change in the ring into Western Riding. Her pony behaved impeccably, and performed his tasks with great agility.

Barrel racing followed, a great favourite with the audience. Lucinda Ingram on Wootton Hazel claimed first prize.

Caroline Wilkins on Canterton Beau, then gave an excellent demonstration of side saddle riding. She had competed earlier in the day, and placed third. Well done!

Polo was next on the agenda with Toby Pitts on his pony Farriers Glamour Girl. He gave a brilliant display, showing that the New Forest Pony can make an excellent Polo Pony. (Who needs to buy an Argentinean Polo Pony?)

The quadrille Team dressed in their bells and flowers (Morris dancers by any other name) kept us all spellbound, with a heart stopping moment at the beginning, when one pony seemed to be about to depart, but his riders skill brought him quickly back into line, and the display continued to the great delight and appreciation of the spectators. The applause at the end, showed this to be a very popular event.

Last but not least were the Showjumpers. A pairs competition had been organised, using six of the top event riders, which included Jane Holderness Roddam, riding New Forest Ponies that they had never been on before. Just to help things along, the heavens opened as the event began, but we are pleased to report that all riders and ponies completed the course safely.

The display ended with a grand finale, and all of the riders were presented with rosettes. The six guest event riders were each presented with a bottle of locally produced New Forest Wine.

This event was a true display of the versatility of the New Forest Pony, showing that they can and will do anything that is asked of them.

Thanks must go to the New Forest Pony Breeders, who kindly loaned their stand to us for the four days of the event, and the two committee members, Jan & Peggy who endured four days of inclement weather to get the message across to the visitors.

Our aim, as always, was to promote the New Forest Pony, and this we believe was achieved with good results and positive enquiries by members of the public.

Last but not least, our most grateful thanks go to the organisers of the Windsor International Horse Trials, without whose most generous help, the event would not have been possible.

Please click on any image to see a larger picture