Main image: Pony Club Australia recently competed at the International Mounted Games Exchange held in Canada. Image supplied.
Pony Club Australia proudly finished in second place at the recent International Mounted Games Exchange held in Canada, with only three points separating them from the winning team from Great Britain. The competition featured teams from Great Britain, Canada, the USA, New Zealand, and Australia, showcasing the best of mounted games talent on a global stage.
The Australian team, consisting of riders Lauren Bassola (Swan Valley Horse & Pony Club, WA), Alister McLachlan (Murrumbateman Pony Club, NSW), Meg Kilby (Tasmanian Pony & Riding Club, TAS), Asha Schmidt (Katherine Horse & Pony Club, NT), and Ember Vanderydt (Corner Inlet Pony Club, VIC), was coached by Dan Foster (WA) and managed by Niree Weybury (VIC). Their journey began on August 27 with a ten-day tour that included eight days in Nova Scotia, followed by two days in Toronto.
The Pony Club Australia International Mounted Games Exchange team with their rosettes. Image supplied.
The tour was packed with thrilling activities, such as zip-lining through treetops, kayaking in the Atlantic to observe seals, and whale watching, where the team was delighted to spot four whales. They also enjoyed trail riding in the Canadian forests, bushwalking, and sightseeing in Halifax, culminating in a visit to the Halifax Lancers stables, where they experienced a stunning 16-horse musical ride.
In addition to sightseeing, the team held a games demonstration for local pony club riders, allowing them to share their skills and passion for the sport. This collaborative effort fostered a strong sense of community and friendship among the participants.
The competition featured teams from Great Britain, Canada, the USA, New Zealand, and Australia. Image supplied.
Resilient Aussies
Despite a last-minute venue change due to anticipated bad weather, which necessitated adjustments to the indoor arena, Pony Club Australia demonstrated resilience. They started the competition strong but faced challenges, including an unfortunate elimination that impacted their score. Nevertheless, the riders showcased remarkable determination and skill, competing on borrowed ponies with varying levels of games experience.
The Australian team rode borrowed horses at the event. Image supplied.
The final result was as follows:
1. Great Britain
2. Australia
3. USA / New Zealand
4. Canada
After the competition, the team celebrated their achievements at a gala dinner, where they reflected on the memorable tour and the friendships they had formed.
As they returned home, the team carried with them a wealth of experiences and cherished memories. Pony Club Australia continues to provide exceptional opportunities for riders, coaches, and managers, facilitating connections with pony clubs from around the world and promoting the spirit of mounted games on an international level.
After the competition, the team celebrated their achievements at a gala dinner. Image supplied.
As they returned home, the team carried with them a wealth of experiences and cherished memories. Image supplied.
