For most of the
competitors, wining the Garryowen Trophy is a dream and the months of
preparation and planning adds to the excitement of the day. The
event is steeped in tradition and much of the costume goes back to the
time of Garryowen himself. The clothing standard remains true to
this era and demands that breeches are of pure wool and hand finished as
they would have been 70 years ago. Fabrics have come a long way and
the fit and comfort is abandoned to keep with the traditions of the
Garryowen.
A lace handkerchief and gold sovereign in the pocket replaces the mobile
phone and/or MP3 player which would be more likely found in the pockets
the rider today! For lovers of the 'Garry' this trip down
'memory lane' is a strong part of the appeal that captures the hearts of
lady riders who dream of their appearance in this prestigious turnout
class.
Queensland combination - Kim Durante and Sequel step
out in fine style. The well proportioned gelding is by Southern
Appeal. He seems to have handled his big trip well, and is in great
form.
Sequel is owned by A
Woolard and Kim Durante. I can only imagine the thrill to be
in the top 6 - a great result for Kim,who is very successful in the show
ring everywhere in Australia.
Sequel - he knows he has
done well!!
Pam Ahern
and her lovely chestnut, Hype (by Mighty Avalanche). This first
class combination placed 2nd. last year and were the 'tip' of many, for
this year's top spot. Pam is a great rider ... and having won the
event in the past knows just what the judges will be looking for in terms
of costume and equipment. Hype is a beautiful horse and presented
his usual foot perfect work. There were a few moments of tension in
the mouth which probably account for a few marks lost. Pam would
know how difficult a top 6 finish is, and would be delighted with
her partner! She has a great fondness for her horses and always
looks to see them happy and relaxed.
Hype and Pam Ahern look so elegant.
Wow ... here we are again!
Pam Ahern and Hype - 5th this year.
Hyde Park
and Bianca Duell step out in fine style ... the elegant bay gelding
was formerly in the Lawrie's Lyndale Stables in South Australia and Bianca
has had a ball with him since she purchased him some years ago. Well
done.
Hyde Park
and Bianca Duell present a very neat workout and return
to the line-up to await the judges scores. It is announced that they
were awarded 39 for riding and 36 for the horse's manners and paces, so
there are 'up there' and the final place will be down to the marks from
the other judges.
Hyde Park
and Bianca Duell have cemented their name in the record books as a top
performing combination in the show ring and in turnout classes.
Some random
pictures from the line-up are included. On the next pages I have
plublished pictures of some of the other competitors who took part in the
2004
Garryowen Perpetual Trophy - I did not get pictures of every competitor.
