Despite the very cold weather three teams from South Pembrokeshire Hunt Branch of the Pony Club recently travelled to Cel Aeron near Aberaeron to take part in a Christmas team show jumping competition. The event organised by Tivyside Pony Club attracted 25 teams from pony clubs through out Area 18.

Each team was made up of one rider jumping a first round course of 45cms, one jumping 60 cms, one jumping 75cms and one jumping 90cms. At the end of each class, the jumps were put up 5-10cms for the second round with the riders all competing again. At the end of all classes, those teams on equal points competed in a jump-off.

Unfortunately, in the lead up to the event a number of ponies were injured and riders unable to take part, however thanks to James Davies riding twice, and Emma Morgan moving up a class we were in the end able to make up full teams.

Our teams were however all extremely young with a number of riders competing on new ponies and as the course contained some brightly coloured fillers this did cause a few minor problems.

The teams were also up against serious competition from other pony clubs who were competing with much older and more experienced riders in all classes.

Many other ponies clubs were represented by senior competitors whilst our riders were aged from eight-15!

All the South Pembs. teams rode extremely well and enjoyed the day. Special congratulations go to James and Lucy Davies who were competing in their first inter branch competition, and to Sarah Hughes who riding both her ponies was one of only a handful of riders to record double clears.

James Davies and Frosty (45cms), Ele Scourfield and Teddy Edward (60cms), Anna Morgan and Able Mable (75 cms) and Sarah Hughes and Ben (90cms) made up the South Pembs. Dazzlers team.

All rode extremely well to qualify for the jump off for third place which was a big achievement for such a young team.

In an extremely exciting jump-off, Sarah rode superbly to take fourth place recording by far the fastest time although unfortunately Ben clipped a pole. Well done Sarah!

The South Pembs. Sparklers team was made up Lucy Davies and Spirit (45cms), Emma Morgan and Able Mable (60cms), Sarah Hughes and Charmaine (75cms), and Anna Morgan and Regency Gold (90cms).

Once again, this even younger team did well finishing just one place out of the rosettes.

South Pembs. 'Catch me if you can' team lived up to their name with James Davies and Spirit (45cms), Emma Morgan and Lleust Melody (60cms), Harriet Morgan and Buster (75cms) and Jess Hunt and Scrumptious (90cms).

Although not in the rosettes, all the riders did extremely well riding new ponies, or in Harriet's case riding her old pony who she moved off two years ago!

The weekend before Christmas once again the branch braved the elements to go carol singing around Carew Cheriton and Cresselly in aid of the children's ward at Withybush Hospital. Special thanks to the Carew Inn, Cresselly Arms Cresswell Quay, and Jeffreyston Inn for their hospitality putting up with our singing!

Members and their parents are reminded that the annual prize-giving and Christmas party is being held tomorrow (Saturday) at Merlewood Hotel, Saundersfoot. The event starts at 6.30 pm and is an excellent opportunity to renew membership, join the 100 Club, book in for area competitions and find out about forthcoming events.