More than 60 riders weren’t one-trick ponies, and the fundraising total is on the cusp. The biennial Rough Island Equestrian Park Fundraiser Show roped in $4520 on Sunday. The funds will go towards the facility’s brand-new $5000 round pen for young horses to take their first canter in an open space.
Once primed, it will be 24 metres in diameter with high sides to prevent animals from escaping, and will be available to park members who pay an annual fee.
The park membership currently sits at around 40, and it will now take other courses for its remaining funds to come in.
Nelson Western Riding Club, Nelson Dressage Group, Waimea Pony Club, and Motueka Pony Club members mounted up at the event for their ponies and hacks to stretch their legs in show and derby classes and western barrel racing and cowboy challenges.
Organiser Vanessa Baxter says the event was of the highest order.
“It’s been a good competition for all the people in our community,” she says.
