Sisters riders test skills

High Lakes Pony Club members had an opportunity to brush up on their skills at an in-house show on Monday, August 18, at O'Neal Farms in Sisters. About half of the 24 members were able to attend, and they were divided into three groups according to skill levels.

The day started with Tack and Turnout class where all the groups were combined. Each rider presented to the judge, stating name, age and details about his or her horse, and answered questions from the judge.

Sandy McBride, a dressage rider at O'Neal Farms, volunteered her services as judge for the day, and said that each rider presented very well.

"They get to prove that they have their act together," she said. "It's very good practice, for the younger riders especially, to have to speak clearly to an adult."

A short riding test was next, with Group 1 riders demonstrating halt, walk and trot. Group 2 added a canter, and Group 3 worked at all three gaits then trotted over a low jump. Each rider had to show correct form and control.

Gymkhana games rounded out the day, with more speed and tighter turns as the groups progressed. It wasn't all about speed though. Riders had to show some finesse in the potato race, where a spud was picked off the top of a barrel and placed in a bucket at the other end of the arena. If the potato bounced out of the bucket, the rider had to dismount, pick up the potato, re-mount and aim for the bucket again.

Horseback games are a good way to build skills and confidence, and Pony Club is all about learning in a progressive manner. Throughout the summer, the High Lakes Pony Club held regular meetings, with members working toward rating tests. One member has already achieved a C1 rating, which is rapid progress, according to District Commissioner Yvette Chandler of Sisters.