 The Judges did a very good job considering the very hot day
on Saturday. It is very demanding to stand and concentrate, give each horse and
rider the opportunity to work out for a win. I must compliment the judges for their
fantastic appearance. Their very smart attire gave this show a feeling of a day at
the races, with all of the style and careful presentation that goes with the 'fashions on
the field'.
The organising committee
made sure that the judges would remember the great Hidden Valley hospitality - and lunch
was provided in the beautiful Italian restaurant at the centre.
The riders and their
horses were looked after very well as the stable block, horse wash and other Hidden Valley
facilities were available to competitors. The grounds are large and their appeared
to be ample parking for floats and trucks.
Hidden Valley have been
noted for the beautiful garlands which are awarded to the Champions in each class.
The first year they were made of fresh flowers - and these would be hard to better.
In the hot weather they only last a few hours and therefore do not make a long term
keepsake. For the past few years Corinne Lewis has made her beautiful Hidden Valley
garlands from artificial flowers and I am sure that those who are lucky enough to win them
will have them on show for many months after the event.
Knowledgable horseman Bruce Faulk
was able to provide an interesting and informative commentary throughout the weekend. |
 Rosemary Metherall was a fantastic
ringmaster (person???) and the competition
ran smoothly thanks to her expertise. |
 Not everyone was
able to give the competition their 100% attention - the relaxing atmosphere worked a bit
too well! Paul Merry (brother of Stephen Paris) Merry found a leafy tree to take a
'cat nap'.
The 4 open saddle horse
classes were won in fine style by outstanding exhibits, presented magnificently and in
perfect condition. The riding and training of the modern show horse is to be
commended. Most of the top horses worked perfectly and allowed the rider to show
them off to perfection.
Kathy & Maree Tomkinson - great
organisersHector
(the Rottweiler) was a great help
getting the winners to prick their ears |
 |
2003 Hidden Valley Open
Champions. |
