THE horse-riding champions of the future have had their first taste of competition with the second Little Leagues at Friars Hill Stables in Sinnington.
The league, which ended last Saturday, is aimed at younger, novice riders. The league encompasses six competitions incorporating activities for the children including pole-to-pole, gymkhana games, jumping, obstacles and "handy pony".
The stables say that these tests are designed for the children to have fun while learning, and gently introduce the children into competing without having to go up against those who have been there and done it.
The children were separated into two groups, one for the older, slightly more experienced children who are eight to11 years and one for the younger five to eight year olds.
At each competition the children were placed as to how well they performed, rosettes were awarded and points given. The points were then collected and added up at the final session, known as the Championship. Rosettes were awarded at each competition and sashes were presented to the winner of each group.
Tracy, who works at the stables, said: "Well done to all the children who took part, this activity does take them slightly out of their comfort zone but they all seem to have enjoyed themselves and gained more confidence. Our new season of Little Leagues will start in October 2016 when we hope to see lots of new smiley faces."
Results for competition six were:
Majors
1st – Harry Thompson
2nd – Libby Bailey
3rd – Abi Garbutt-Blacker
4th – Alice Langdale
5th – Evie Duell
Minis
1st – Alex Hill
2nd – Brooke Gibson
3rd – Lauren Harris
4th – Max Bailey
Overall the Championship placings were:
Majors
1st – Harry Thompson
2nd – Libby Bailey
3rd – Alice Langdale
4th – Harvey Brackley
5th – Abi Garbutt-Blacker
6th – Evie Duell
Minis
1st – Lauren Harris
2nd – Brooke Gibson
3rd – Max Bailey
4th – Eve Stanley
5th – Alex Hill
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