Stylish and effective riding will have its own rewards in the new discipline of Jumpquest.
Judged in a similar way to a dressage test, Jumpquest is marked on the rider’s position, technique and understanding of the course set. A test sheet presented at the end of the competition carries marks, penalties and judges’ comments.
A season of Jumpquest events is planned for 2003, including junior, novice, Pony Club and riding club invitation trophy events. Sissons Farm Equestrian Centre, near Peterborough will be the venue for the inaugural events.
Class heights will range from 50cm to 1.40m, with prize-money available in classes above 1.20m.
The concept, which is similar to equitation show jumping in Europe, is the brainchild of David Hutchinson, who held an introduction to the sport at Sissons Farm yesterday (Sunday 24 November).
“The training day was a huge success,” said David. “More than 50 riders of various ages took part, with people travelling from as far away as London and the Norfolk/Cambs borders to take part. Around 100 spectators also came along to find out more about the sport.
“We had one six-year-old rider attend with her pony as well as a number of established competitors interested in competing over 1.10m and 1.20m fences.”
David also has plans to introduce Super JumpQuest, a competition which combines show jumping and cross-country over knock down fences with a style element at Sissons Farm EC next year.
For more information contact David (tel: 01328 822194), Sissons Farm Equestrian Centre (tel: 01733 810383) or visit www.sissonsfarmequestrian.co.uk
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