All roads lead to Bury Farm Equestrian Village, Slapton, Buckinghamshire, last weekend where pony riders from the length and breadth of the country gathered for four fun-filled Easter days of the Pony of the Year Show.
This year the show carried a Jungle Book theme with monkeys and gorillas amongst the animals to become part of the wings and fences for a great jungle feel – although the weather didn’t feel able to join in, unless you count rain to complete the Rain Forest ambiance.
13 year-old Jessica Howard from Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire was crowned Novice Grand Prix Champion and Leading Rider with Rocky Robin a 9 year-old grey gelding owned by Claire Darwin. The pair produced two clears, bringing home a time of 38.23 seconds in the jump off to secure their win.
“He was too much for the riding school, he’s quite a tough pony with lots of character,” said Jessica, who also has HOYS ambitions this summer.
