On the Saturday night when we were setting up, both Ridley and I were suprised when a woman rode her quad over to us to ask if we would like a hand. Most of the time we say “No, we will be fine”, but this time I thought, gosh we really could do with some help! She stayed with us for ages setting up rings, adding flowers, sorting judges gifts, arranging the secretaries table and putting out the trophies. How fitting it was the next day when the same woman won the sportsmanship trophy! So thank you Nichole from Ridley and me, you made our day with your kindness.
To Jesse who I only met a few days earlier and suggested that he might like to come to the show and take photographs. He took some beautiful photos and they are available to view on his website. www.jessewillson.net In years gone by we have always nominated an official photographer to the show and this year decided to welcome all photographers and Jesse was the only one who came and got involved. Please support his desire to become a professional photographer.
To the lovely young competitors who came and sought out the judges to thank them personally.
When one of our judges collapsed a team of people sprang into action. Carol Kupa RN, Claire Kupa and Wendy Osman, both first aiders cared for Anita and made her comfortable while we all waited for the ambulance. It goes to show the value of having trained as a first aider and anyone interested in this can contact the Red Cross for information.
Our thanks go to the Horowhenua Dressage group for sharing the weekend with us and holding their show on the Saturday. We were happy to sponsor their event and are thrilled that many showies had a go at dressage.
To Wendy the secretary who kept up with all of the late entries so we could start at 9am on the dot. She also kept a spreadsheet of all results so the teams event could be run so efficiently. The catering always falls to Beth Evenson who ‘over caters’ terribly so we have loads to eat after the show.
Judith Buckeridge and Jan Old who were so accommodating in their rings with our ‘judge for a day’ candidates. They freely gave of their knowledge and have inspired at least 2 people to try judging.
I had lots of fun scurrying from ring to ring and sitting in my little sweatbox, so to cool down after the show we dragged the sound caravan and all, to Himitangi beach for a swim. It was bliss and at that moment, thoughts of how to improve the show were already being formulated.
Thank you to everyone who helped and participated and we look forward to seeing you in 2012.
