News Archive

 

Message from the ride organiser:

The Cranham ride was again blessed with good weather.  A few people got lost, but the general consensus was that the altered route rode much better than last year and certainly more people got good grades.

Many thanks to all those who came to help both at the venue and man the gates on the route indeed there were only 2 gates that had to be opened by riders.

Thanks particularly to Carolyn Edwards who did a lot more of the Organising than I did!

Margaret 

Just in from Chris Wray:

EGB Inter-Regional Championships - our team had 1st & 2nd in the 2-day 80CR (Lisa & Harry Adshead - S&WW group - score was 3) - they beat Jan (OD) and Krissie (DC) in that class (best 2 to count), I won the 65CR - our only entry, Saran and Wizz Allott (DC Group) were 2nd & 4th in the 32CR Novice (score was 6) and Wizz was best YR/Junior, In the 40CR Novice we scored 9 so that will be 3rd & 6th or 4th & 5th (Cally Dancey and Jenny Myerscough - both DC Group). Belinda Stewart completed the 100ER (our only entry - we had none in the 80ER) giving us more valuable points, having very kindly switched class.  We were 2nd team overall, having pulled up from 6th on Sunday morning. A fantastic result - see my email to the team below, and a full team list is at the very bottom.

Full team results (I am awaiting individuals results in each class) are at:

 http://inter-regional-endurance.community.officelive.com/TeamListResult.aspx


Email from Chris:

Well Team, the EGB Inter-Regional championships is over for 2011.   Thank you all so much for agreeing to be on the team, and thank you all for riding with such good sense and judgement to achieve excellent speeds, yet be able to achieve really good pulses at the end.  

There are a few thanks that I personally would like to make:  

To Hilary for good advice and help with team selection,  
To Belinda - I think all of us will be grateful to her for a) swapping her class to the I-R 100ER class, and b) for persevering round 100km on Saturday to be not only our only ER finisher, but our only ER starter as well !  
To Karen - despite not being selected for the team, took Cally round to an excellent result,  
To Barbara (Gina's crew), and Gina, and Lisa - for fantastic help preparing horses for final vetting - particularly when we had 4 horses finish together!

So, the prizegiving.  

First they gave out a rosette and a goody bag to the best Young Rider in each class - and congratulations Wizz, I have one of these for you!  

Secondly they gave out trophies (to keep!) for the best PR score in each class - and congratulations to Lisa, who was the winner of the 2day 80CR class  

Then they announced in reverse order the results of the Inter-Regional Championships - we had been 6th out of 7 teams overnight - in the classes that finished Saturday, there were 6 riders to score - but we had only 2 riders entered in these classes, so we had joint last place for 4 of the 6 !  

A big relief when we weren't 7th, or 6th.  

Started to get rather pleased with you all when we weren't 5th ....... or 4th,  

For 3rd place it wasn't just rosettes - there were also medals for each team member - and we weren't called 3rd either........  

WE WERE SECOND !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

From last but one overnight, we had moved up to top but one.

It was won by South West Group - one of EGB's biggest groups, who were 2nd the last 2 years. (last year we were 5th).

So what fantastic PF scores you must all have had to raise us so far up the ranking. And best of all NOT A SINGLE FAIL from ANY team horse. What a testament this is to your riding this weekend - a fantastic well done to you all.  

Particular congratulations to Cally, as this is her first year in Endurance, and to Saran and Wizz as (apart from a single ride last year) it is also their first year.   I will make sure you all get your rosettes and medals, in person, in front of an appreciative audience! (apart from Jenny, Lisa and Harry who were at the prizegiving and got their round of applause then!)  

Good luck with the rest of the season, don't forget the competition between out Groups (the Wales Inter-Group Challenge) has it's next round at Tintern on 11th Sept, then the final event will be the Saturday and Sunday of Red Dragon - so enter the eligible classes at these rides, and contact you Group Chef to be on the team (Group Chefs are Hilary for DC, Jane Clatworthy for S&WW, Pat Conn for M&NW, and me for OD).  

I look forward to considering you for selection for the Inter-Regional team next year! To be considered, you need to be wanting to compete in one of the I-R classes, and please let me know!  

Well done, and see you at one of the future rides,  

Chris.

We would like to thank Chris on behalf of both Offa's Dyke and De Cymru for all the hard work that he put in to the Inter-Regionals - What a Fantastic Result

Well Done Chris!!

 

Suspicious Circumstances:-

A recent incident has occurred at stables with land adjacent to the main A46 Highway. Fencing (barbed wire and stock fencing) has been deliberately cut from the top to bottom of the fencing near a wooden fence post. It appears that this was in preparation for rolling the wire back far enough  to allow  the horses to be led from the field direct into a trailer sited on the main road in the future.

Please let us know if you have encountered any similar offences!

Regards

PC 695 Melanie Campbell
Horsewatch Co-ordinator
Gloucestershire Constabulary

 

The July newsletter has been printed, posted and emailed.  It is now available for download from the Newsletter page of the web site.

 

Dear all,  

Please be aware of the following details, should you have any similar incidents:-  

At a riding school near Stroud, the owner was collecting some horses from his field and noticed that one of his ponies had an old saddle on, he also found a bridle on the floor. The caller believes that someone had been attempting to ride the horse and was possibly disturbed and then fled the area. It maybe that the offender was checking the horse out, prior to committing a further offence!  

Please let me know if you have encountered any similar offences!  

Regards  

PC 695 Melanie Campbell
Horsewatch Co-ordinator
Gloucestershire Constabulary

 

The Cranham ride page has been updated with a new ride map and additional information specifically to help non-members who are entering for the first time.

We have worked hard on this year’s route to make the times much more achievable. We have kept the best bits, taken out more stony sections & ridden others in a different direction, which we think will make them ride better. The 40km route now has no repeat sections. Only the 50km route repeats the top red loop, but this gives the advantage that they no longer have to return to the venue part way round. The 64km class does the 40km route followed by a short 24km route, which we think will ride well.

Ride entries are open and are due to close on the 8th August.

Please come along and enjoy this lovely ride!

Cranham Ride Button

 

We would like to give a very BIG THANK YOU to Belinda and all her helpers for another excellent Blaenavon Ride last Sunday.  Over 60 entries and all had a happy face, sunny but not hot, good going, and fantastic views from the top - what more can a rider want?  So a great big thank you to Belinda for putting on the ride and marking (mostly on foot) and to her helpers, not forgetting the publican for allowing us to use his ground for parking (and for pulling a decent pint!).  Great training day and please can we have it again next year!

 

Don't forget to post your entries to Belinda for our EGB 10th Anniversary Ride at Blaenavon on Sunday 3rd July.  Details on the Blaenavon Ride page.

 

We need more entries for this ride and with Monday 6th June the formal closing date, now is a great time to enter.  We need more entries in the Mytton Way Team Challenge which will  be awarded to a team of up to 4, who having entered as individuals any of the published classes, gain the most points from 3 of the team members.  Note that this means you can enter a team of 3 horses, but all 3 need to get round sound.

Preparations for the Ludlow Ride are progressing well but Dick and Judith need more helpers to make sure this ride is a really good success.  They are particularly looking for road crossing stewards but there are lots of other jobs as well.  Please volunteer to help as we would love to see all their hard work reflected in a truly memorable ride weekend.

Please contact Dick and Judith by phone on

01531 820036
077650 58070
079207 75247

or email:

 

The latest version of the Ludlow Ride map is now available on the Ludlow web site.

Calling all riders, non riders and reluctant other halves!

Why not attend an “Endurance Clinic” Saturday 4th June 10-4pm
New House Farm, Tormarton, Badminton South Gloucestershire GL9 1HB  

09.45am Registration

10.00 Welcome by UKCC Coach & International Endurance Rider - Rachael Claridge

10.15 What makes a good endurance horse?      Richard Bristow, Willesley Equine Clinic

11.15 When to use Electrolytes? Aimee Redfearn, Brinicombe Equine Supplements

12.15 Lunch break – please bring a packed lunch and a folding chair (Demo in arena)

12.45 What do the crew do at endurance rides? Adam Farley & Jane Cooke, Endurance Crew

13.45 How do you do an endurance ride? Rachael Claridge, Former Young & Senior GBR Rider

14.45 Who will make an endurance rider? Georgina Isaac, Inspire Hypnotherapy

15.45 Summary and Finish

N.B – Please bring a packed lunch, folding chair, warm clothes and an open mind for this fun filled day. This session will launch a series of ‘Claridge Endurance’ clinics in the Badminton area. This is an un-mounted event to ‘set the scene’ with mounted and in-hand sessions to follow over the summer.

To book a place please send a cheque made payable to:  ‘Rachael Claridge’ to 14 Hazel Way, Colerne, Wiltshire SN148QA for £20 before Thursday 2nd June or £25 for late entries/on the day.

For further information please contact Rachael on 07789641014/01454238942 or visit www.rachaelclaridge.com

 

Our neighboring group's EGB 10th anniversary ride will be at Wentwood on Sunday the 5th of June.  More details are available through this link to their poster:

http://www.egbdecymru.co.uk/Wentwood%20June%20poster%202011.pdf

 

Now we are back from our GHS holiday at Exford we have been able to pull together a report of Offa's Dyke member's successes and a few photos.  Due to the amount of information, we have decided to create a special 'Offa's Dyke at the GHS' web page which you can access by clicking here or on the link on the left hand side.

Offa's Dyke riders celebrated success at the Golden Horse Shoe last night.  Star of the night was Gill Talbot who achieved her ambition of winning the highest award for the 160km ride.  We caught many of the winners and crew in the photo below and will provide a full report when we return from our week at Exford.

GHS 2011 winners

GHS 2011 Winners and Crew

The delayed April newsletter is now available.  Copies were sent out by post or email today.  It is available to download from the Newsletter page.

 

We apologise for the delay in the issue of the April newsletter which is still being prepared.  We hope to be able to print this over the weekend and post it out early next week.

 

CONGRATULATIONS to Offa’s Dyke members who have had a very successful trip to Mont Le Soie in Belgium. Louise Rich was 4th and Sue Rich 6th. They were not in the team but riding as individuals.  Andrea Champ who was a Team member was 9th.  Sadly the other Offa’s Dyke member Fiona Griffiths was out at the first vet gate.  

Andrea‘s account of leading up to the event is in the April newsletter, which is still being prepared and should be sent out next week.

 

South & West Wales Group member Harry Adshead has emailed us with the following:

Please don’t forget to get your entries in now for the Pen Ddol Y Gader ride – see website for details. 

The deadline for entries to the EGB ride on Sunday is midnight on Tuesday 10th May. 

Late entries are accepted after 10th but the EGB charge a £5 late entry fee.

If you have friends who are not members but want to ride on Sunday, remember there is a new Try before You Buy scheme.  

This ride has miles of great cantering on the open mountain – your horse will be upset if you don’t take him (or her)! 
Ride lengths to suit every horse/pony/donkey/mule/camel – 15km, 25km, 33km, 40km and 48km.  
(N.B. For the pleasure ride on Saturday, you can enter on the day)  

Please pass this on to any friends / non-members who may be interested.

 

We have heard from Sue, the organiser of this ride that they still need more entries to make this ride viable.  All the information for this training ride is contained in a poster available by clicking here. 

Book in and Pay on the Day.
They are waiting to hear from you......

Ring Val. 01974 821529 or Sue 01952 750770

Latest: Angela Corner has stables at Middleton, Ludlow and a field for camping etc., Angela's mobile is 07810380563 if anyone would like to book. 

We are more than happy to advertise this neighboring ride which was enjoyed by many of our members last year.

 

 

 

 

 EGB 10th anniversary

We are please to announce that Blaenavon is the Offa's Dyke 'EGB 10th Anniversary' celebration ride and that all riders will have the option to receive a commemorative plaque (as indicated above) or a Pleasure Ride rosette (whichever they prefer).

 

Can you help on Sunday at the Bluebell Ride?

Helpers still needed for Sunday, especially course stewards to man road crossings & warn cyclists on some of the newly included cycle tracks.

We also need someone to help with parking early in the morning  

If you can offer to help all day – or even part of the day please let us know ASAP.  

Contact Gina Harris (preferably by email) 

 

Margam Park has unfortunately had to introduce measures to avoid Phytophthora being introduced into the Deer Park from the surrounding area.

This means that running a ride from this location is not practical and so it is with regret the organisers Pat Conn and CarlyAnn Evans have had to take the decision to cancel the ride on the 11th and 12th June.

However, it this case there may be a silver lining in that the Ludlow Ride is the following weekend and is offering a new route and the opportunity to ride over two days.

Check out the latest details on the Ludlow Ride web pages.

 

TBYB is an opportunity for those new to endurance riding to enter a novice competitive ride up to 40km before applying to become an EGB member and registering their horse. Successful completion of the ride is awarded with an appropriate rosette. No trophy points can be gained and no progression towards novice qualification can be gained. This offer is purely to allow non-members to experience a competitive ride and is limited to two rides per applicant.

Try Before You Buy can be only applied for online and rides must be entered on line.

Link to TBYB details

 

Please note this Saturday ride is now back on for the Saturday due to a last minute flurry of interest.

 

A new page has been added to the Ludlow web site which gives an update of ride route with photos of potential parts of the new route.

Click here to open the new Ludlow web site Ride page

 

Forest of Dean Bluebell Ride - Sunday 17th April

Route Improvements, Additional Classes, more entries needed.  

We have done quite a lot or recce-ing, negotiating with the Forestry, and re-routing in the last month - and the result was agreed Thursday morning (31st March).

The benefits are:  

 - the long road section soon after the start has been replaced by some lovely forest paths and tracks,

- due to the extra 4km this gives, we have eliminated a long hard forestry road followed by a fairly steep downhill road section and more hard forestry road

- the Saturday social NCR is now 32km,

so for Sunday we can additionally offer 32km CR classes, and the 67km class is now 65km - making it eligible for the Royal Lord Trophy.

Class changes will be on the EGB website Ride Schedule.  

There is now almost no road at all, the best bits are still there, and the new parts should get hailed as the new best bits!  

Roll up! Roll up!

It should be a lovely ride!

Ride Schedule changes:  

Class 1 is now 65km, instead of 67km
Classes 2 and 3 now 50km, instead of 51km,
New class 6 - 32km CR
New class 7 - 32km CR Novice.

 

We are very pleased that Fiona Griffiths and Andrea Champ have been selected to compete as part of the British Team of the World Class Start Squad. Sue and Louise Rich, who competed on the team at the same event last year have decided to go again.

See below for the EGB Team Selection announcement and follow the link to the ride website for more information:

http://www.endurance-belgium.com/navigation/index.htm  

TEAM SELECTION ANNOUNCEMENT!

After a very successful day at Kings Forest, Di Latham announced, on behalf of the Selectors that the following combinations have been selected from the World Class Start Squad to travel to Mont Le Soie on 30th April 2011 to compete as a Team representing Great Britain. They will all ride in the 120km FEI 2*.

Fiona Griffiths and Dear Kate   
Lindsey Comben and Radhwan   
Andrea Champ and Driumghiga Luxor  
Sue Higgins and Aberllywds Another Rose   
Annie Ings and Alpha   
Alex Freaks and Maresha   

In addition members of the World Class Potential Squad will also travel with the Team and compete under the guidance of the Management Team, whilst supporting those not so experienced combinations, to obtain further FEI qualifications to progress their elevation to the Elite Squad. These combinations are as follows:- 

Rachael Atkinson and Vanash
Claire Bruce and Ah Diba
Sue Rich and Czako
Lesley-Ann Parker and Velvet Echo  

In addition Young Rider Squad Member Louise Rich will take Cziko to complete in the YR120 2*. 

This trip will encompass members of the World Class Start, Potential and Young Rider Squads all travelling and competing together which is a huge step in the right direction to get all the Squads working together.

Congratulations and GOOD LUCK to all riders and horses - especially Offa's Dyke Members! 

 

Govilon 1

Equine Pix Photography were at Govilon yesterday to capture the day and appeared to be everywhere!  The photos have been uploaded onto their web site at:

www.equinepix.co.uk

Just click on 'Events' and open the Govilon web pages.

Govilon 2

Govilon 3

Our thanks go to EquinePix for sending us these photos for the web site.

 

We would like to give a big THANK YOU to Nicola, Belinda, her family and all her friends who helped make today's ride so enjoyable.  A total of 78 riders enjoyed this well run ride.  All the riders that we spoke to were very complementary and the whole day went very smoothly.

Equine Pix Photography were there to capture the day and appeared to be everywhere!  The photos have been uploaded onto their web site at:

www.equinepix.co.uk

Just click on 'Events' and open the Govilon web pages.

 

 

 

Note that Nicola has confirmed that she will be taking entries on the day but you MUST start before 11:30 so make sure you arrive in plenty of time.

 

The photograph below shows both riders and helpers with the Judge, Carole Broad, who presented the rosettes.  

dressage competition winners

The top three in Class 1 were:
1st Abigail Tennant riding Duette
2nd Freya Thomas riding Robin
3rd Richard Williams riding Maestro

The top three in Class 2 were:
1st Richard Williams riding Maestro
2nd Jo Williams riding Spinway Blackthorn
3rd Lyn Tilt riding Apache

A full report will appear in the April Newsletter

 

Dick and Judith are making good progress with the arrangements and organisation for the Ludlow Ride in June.  They are planning a new route that will avoid the busy A49 road crossing and take the riders north to Wenlock Edge.  The main Ludlow web site has been updated with the latest information and will be updated further as more information becomes available.

Click here to go to the Ludlow web site.

 

Thanks to everyone involved in organising an running the recent Forest of Dean March Hares ride.  We certainly enjoyed ourselves and all the other 80+ riders appeared to have smiles on their faces!

We have received some very nice comments from riders and present a few 'sound bites' below:

'I wanted to drop you a quick email to say 'thank you' for a lovely ride yesterday. My crew and I were very impressed by the venue and smooth running of the day - well done to you and your team!'

'Just wanted to say Thank you for a lovely ride yesterday.  It was so nice to get out and about after the winter.  The route was dry, well marked and just wonderful.  And you fixed the sunshine too !!   Many thanks to all the helpers, stewards, vets etc.'

'Beti and I would like to say thank you to everyone who helped put on such an excellent ride yesterday.  The weather was kind, the going was good and the route was well marked, and we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.   So once again thanks.'

It is always good to get feedback - but even better when it is positive!  So an extra special thanks to Debbie for sorting some really good improvements to the route.

 

Offa's Dyke member Chris Wray's home bred chestnut Arab filly Peponi has featured in the March edition of the Welsh Rider e-magazine.  As we mentioned in our January newsletter, Peponi was the highest scoring endurance yearling in the Baileys Horse Feeds/BEF Futurity youngstock awards.

To see the report and photo see page 14 of the March issue on the Welsh Rider web site:

www.welshrider.co.uk

 

The distances between the checkpoints for the March Hares ride next week have been added to the web site and are available by clicking here.

 

Don't forget that Monday, 21st February, is the closing date for the March Hares ride.  This means that your entry envelope should be postmarked '21/02/11'.  Any entries posted after Monday should include the late entry fee.  The ride is filling fast so don't leave it too long to decide if you want to enter.

 

We would like to thank Sybil Soulsby for a very interesting talk last night on feeding Endurance horses through the year.  The information and ensuing discussion was enjoyed by approximately 30 members.  We were extremely lucky to have such an experienced endurance rider and vet talking to us and we would like to thank Chris Wray for organising this for us.  Thanks also go to Suzanne for finding us such a good venue.

 

llustrated talk on Endurance Equine Nutrition by Sybil Soulsby BVSc MRCVS at English Bicknor Village Hall (Starting at 7.30 pm).

Sybil is a team vet at the Cross-Country Clinic at Devauden, part of Chepstow Veterinary Health Centre - but more importantly for us is also an experienced Endurance rider, competing to FEI level - some in the UK, but mainly in the US and Canada.

Sybil will be speaking to us on feeding Endurance horses through the year, with reference to the nutritional needs of competing at different Levels (distances and speeds), keeping horses well and happy. Her talk will be informed by both her veterinary training and her experience of successfully competing in a wide range of Endurance events.

Click here to download more information and directions

 

We have heard from Sue, the organiser of this ride that all the info for the above training ride is now contained in a poster available by clicking here.  We are more than happy to advertise this neighboring ride which was enjoyed by many of our members last year.

 

We received the following emailed message of thanks today from a new Associate Member Olivia, who has very kindly agreed for us to publish it here.

"I would just like to say how much I enjoyed the ride yesterday, Thank you to all the volunteers and the organisation that went into this ride.  

I only took up riding in the last few years (in my thirties) and I am in the fortunate position to be able to ride a friends horse at least on a weekly basis, I initially thought ‘endurance’ was for far more experienced riders, I had not done anything other than hacking out with friends - despite this I decided to enter the Staunton ride in January as a ‘Temporary Day Member’ and encouraged some ‘more experienced’ riding friends to join me for reassurance, this was a good starting point as we did not need to box to the venue and this was on home ground.  After successfully completing the full 22km, I was elated to realise this was something I could achieve, the rosette was the icing on the cake and I immediately wanted to find out more.    

This first ride encouraged me to join ‘Offa’s Dyke Endurance Group’ and booked on for the Maryland ride, I was late with my entry (thank you Mark, for accepting the late entry!) and therefore I only received the ride details and map on the Friday.  After reading through that night, I wanted to be fully prepared and decided to walk the first 9km circuit on the Saturday with my husband and one of the other riders to feel more reassured.  The orange markers were brilliant and we came across a bike trail rider who was more than helpful in explaining the route.      

I was really looking forward to the ride with 3 other friends, but also extremely apprehensive as this involved boxing 4 horses with 2 trips – as my friend only has a 2 horse box! (Unfortunately one horse would not load on the morning – so a quick last minute swap for one that would!).  My patient husband drove 4 round trips (Staunton to Maryland) and this was only the 3rd occasion he has towed a horse box!.  He tells me he has a few more grey hairs after that hill!   

Dylan, who I was going to ride had been head strong the day before in the wind, and this only added to my apprehension on how he would deal with a new terrain and the atmosphere of the occasion.   I must say he was marvellous in everyway, I am so proud of Dylan, we completed 17km with no issues, having opted not to do the final circuit primarily due to not over facing the horses. I could have gone on all day – well maybe not all day!!  So inspiration to get them fitter, so we can go further next time!   

So once again a huge thanks to all the helpers who were so friendly, who give people like me the inspiration to do things I otherwise might feel ‘just beyond me’.  Everyone has to start somewhere, and I just can’t wait to see where this journey takes me.   

Olivia"

We really do appreciate feedback and such positive comments make the task of organising a ride feel so rewarding.  Thank you very much Olivia and we are looking forward to seeing you at Govilon and the training day.

 

55 riders entered today's Maryland ride making it a very enjoyable day despite the cold wind.  We would like to thank Mark, Heather and all their helpers for putting on the ride which this year was a Group Social ride for the first time.  Thanks also go out to all the very helpful riders who searched out their spare girths and especially to Gill who came up with the perfect fit!  Thanks very much Gill.

 

 

We know many of you will be riding at Maryland but if anyone is free to help, we could do with a couple more helpers to act as Parking and Check point stewards.

Please contact the Ride Organiser, Mark Holland if you can help.

 

Ride Organiser

Organiser

 Mark Holland
Corn Farm, Devauden, Chepstow, Monmouthshire, NP16 6NS

Phone / fax

 01989 565 249

email

We featured an item from the Forest of Dean Horse Riders and Carriage Drivers Association in our recent newsletter which indicated that their feature will be broadcast tonight.  However, we have received the following update:

"I have heard from the BBC that they will not now be showing the filming they did last week with Jenny and I because it is not now relevant.

The White Paper says that FC woodlands will be taken over by charities and the access that horses, dogs and cyclists already have, will not be denied.  

Let us hope they keep their word!  

Regards. Erica"

Illustrated talk on Endurance Equine Nutrition by Sybil Soulsby BVSc MRCVS at English Bicknor Village Hall (Starting at 7.30 pm).

Sybil is a team vet at the Cross-Country Clinic at Devauden, part of Chepstow Veterinary Health Centre - but more importantly for us is also an experienced Endurance rider, competing to FEI level - some in the UK, but mainly in the US and Canada.

Sybil will be speaking to us on feeding Endurance horses through the year, with reference to the nutritional needs of competing at different Levels (distances and speeds), keeping horses well and happy. Her talk will be informed by both her veterinary training and her experience of successfully competing in a wide range of Endurance events.

Click here to download more information and directions

 

Just too late for the newsletter - we have received some more details of the Heart of England Group's Wyre Forest Social Ride which is on Saturday 12th February.  The date in the newsletter is right, but we got the wrong day!  This ride is definitely on Saturday. Click here to open a poster and entry form for this ride.

 

Almost 40 people attended Offa's Dyke member Sarah Rogerson's talk last night on her experience riding for Great Britain at the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky last year.  She gave a very interesting talk with plenty of pictures projected onto the wall.  She gave us all an insight into the logistics of getting Team GB horses over to the USA and the very different approach to endurance riding in the USA.

We would like to thank Sarah and her family for taking the time and effort to present such an interesting and entertaining talk to the Group.

 

The January newsletter is now available on line and will be posted out on Monday.  This mailing also includes a Social Ride entry form, Team Trophy nomination form, list of awards and trophies and a Trophy Record Card.

Saturday 22 January - Pub Talk and Social Evening
Queens Head, 1 St. James Street Monmouth, NP25 3DL, Tel 01600 712767  

Sarah Rogerson and family are coming along to share with us their once in a lifetime experiences competing at the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky.  

Offa’s Dyke Member Sarah was selected as reserve for the British Team and flew out to Kentucky with her twin sister Rachael. She then had the drama of a last minute inclusion in the team, when one of the British horses was withdrawn. Sarah rode the American based horse Winston (FFC First Csea Lord) owned by Stagg and Cheryl Newman.

Click here for further details

 

Riders at the Christmas Cracker Ride 2011

More than 50 riders took part in todays first ride of the year and we were blessed with a beautiful sunny day.  We would like to thank Belinda Josephi, her husband John and all of their helpers for a most enjoyable day (nicely finished off with a mince pie and some mulled wine).  Today made a welcome change to the pre-Christmas snow and the snow that we had in January 2010 when we had to cancel the ride.

Please note that EGB have increased the Associate Membership fee for 2011.  This is now £19 for an individual and £23 for a family.  The forms have been updated and we shall be writing out shortly to remind existing Associate Members that their subscription is due.

 

Dear EGB Member

Please find below a letter from Dr Lisa Boden of the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Glasgow.  She has asked Endurance GB if its members would be kind enough to help with some research that the University is undertaking on the subject of the spread of infectious diseases of horses and donkeys in Great Britain.  Clearly this is of concern to all who own horses, so I hope that you will be able to find a few minutes in your busy day to complete the online questionnaire mentioned below.

If you are not a horse owner, then please ignore this email and I apologise for the intrusion.

All the best for Christmas and the New Year

Regards  

John Hudson

On behalf of Endurance GB’s Board of Directors

Click here to open the letter

 

The winners

The Winners!

Nearly 60 attended the annual meeting at Monmouth last night and there were some very happy riders receiving a variety of the Group's trophies.  The web master is away for a few days so will provide details of the winners later in the week.

Please help keep our forests.   Many of our rides are dependent on using forestry land that is now under threat.

If the forests become privately owned, as horse riders, our access will be at risk.  

Please read and support the campaign shown below, and spread the word.  

GOVERNMENT PROPOSES TO SELL OFF FORESTS

Friday 12/11/10 at 12:01pm There was a government proposal to sell off the Forests nationwide to commercial enterprises.

We all need to take action quickly as the impact on our sport if this is allowed to happen will be devastating. Anyone reading this can find out a great deal more and sign up to the 38 degrees petition.

Please take some action.

The Forests belong to the people at the moment - let's do everything we can to keep it this way.

 http://www.38degrees.org.uk/save-our-forests

(scant information also available on DEFRA website)

Thanks to Chris Wray who spotted that the November issue of on-line "Welsh Rider" magazine - www.welshrider.co.uk carried a full page report on the Red Dragon which included Gill Talbot's and Maria Stapley's successes.

"hi everyone, some of us are going out to France next year, to watch the European championships at Florac, if anyone would like to join forces to cheer our team on, please feel free to contact me and we will arrange a time and place. The second weekend in September flights are about £50/60 quid.07941049485 fiona"

The October newsletter has been printed, posted, emailed and loaded onto the web site.  You can access a copy from the Newsletter page or by clicking here.

It’s time to send in your trophy cards to claim your rosettes and trophies at our Annual Awards evening on 4th December. Send your completed cards straight away to Trophy Secretary Chris Wray Pentrewheeler Farm, Cwmcarvan, Nr Monmouth, Gwent, NP25 4PL. He will need time to check the results, see who’s won and order the necessary rosettes before the event. If you’ve lost your form you can print another from the forms page or by clicking here or ring Chris (01600 860938) or Carolyn (01452 857352).

Please hurry!

(We need time to get your Rosettes ready!)

There’s no need to send copies of your Master Cards this year, as Chris will check the EGB data base for your National rides. He also has records of Offa’s Dyke social rides and events, so you only need to have verified any non competitive rides you’ve done with other groups. Just list everything you’ve done – riding and helping on the card and fill in the top part, about your horses breeding etc. Chris will then work out what awards you qualify for.  

Remember the deadline for claiming your horse’s EGB national mileage rosettes is also coming up. You need to write to Wendy Dunham before 28th October to claim them (see page 153 of the EGB handbook for details).

Offa’s Dyke group has the most marvellous array of awards up for grabs, including – new for this year an Associate Members Highpoint Trophy.

See the photo below of some of last year’s happy Trophy Winners  

Offa's Dyke Awards

The Rides & Events page has been updated with the AGM details and the proposed dates for the first few rides of 2011.  The Maryland Ride page has been updated as this ride often takes place just as the new handbook is issued.  The other ride pages will be updated when the organiser details have been confirmed.

Two photo galleries have been added, one for the Celtic Challenge at Burgie and the other for the World Equestrian Games.  This is a new development, under trial, and we would appreciate feedback (particularly if they don't work).  They are currently accessible from the Rides & Events page or through the following links:

Burgie Gallery

WEG Gallery  

 

Offa's Dyke member and Red Dragon Winner, Gill Talbot, has sent in the following report and photos: 

The Winning Team

Unlike previous years, when the weather has been Spring like at Red Dragon, and the old turf has ridden exceptionally well, this year the ground was sodden, and on the Sunday the 2nd day started in Monsoon conditions with strong winds.  The welcome dew ponds up on top of the mountains turned into lakes, the streams into fast flowing, white water torrents and rivers that were extremely tricky to cross.  Undeterred, Malabar Storm led from the start, presenting into the overnight hold in 2nd place giving Annie Joppe and Fantom a 3 minute lead on day two.  We overtook the leaders at the bottom of the first steep hill climb and then led it to the most exciting gallop for the finish.   This is Malabar Storms 5th start in a 160km ER and his 5th win, he has also completed Golden Horseshoe and gained a coveted Gold Award. This was my 4th win at Red Dragon.

The Winner

We are sure that everyone will join us in congratulating Gill Talbot.

Sarah was 1st reserve for the British team at WEG in Kentucky and was called into action on Saturday, when unfortunately Janice Cockley-Adams was forced to withdraw Roxanne du Bout du Monde, due to a training injury. Sarah rode for Britain as an individual on the American based horse FFC First Csea Lord (Winston).

Winston is owned by Stagg and Cheryl Newman and our July newsletter contained an article by Sarah telling us what a fabulous time she had last winter competing him in America.

We are all very proud of Sarah’s achievement and can’t wait to hear all about it when she gets back from Kentucky(Sarah and mum Mary have already agreed to come to speak to us at a social evening over winter about their experiences riding in America)  

Meanwhile, dad  Steve sent us this quote from Sarah about her ride:

“It was a deceptively tough course and I had a fantastic two last loops.  It was really fun riding in the dark!  I was a bit too fast on the first three loops and I paid for it on the fourth.  It’s my first Senior Championships and I’ve learnt so much.  The whole experience has been amazing and I’ve made so many friends – even riding today.  Its different to anything I’ve done before.”    

This was organised by Sharon Parr to raise funds for our team in Kentucky. This became even more exciting when we heard on Saturday that Offa’s Dyke member Sarah Rogerson was now riding for Britain.

 Sharon says that 38 riders entered the ride and a good time was had by all.

We have already sent £325 to EGB for the Kentucky fund and hope send a bit more when the profits are totalled up from the sale of refreshments.  

Thanks very much to Sharon for organising the ride and for everyone who helped on the day!

Offa's Dyke member Angharad Morgan was selected for the Welsh team for the recent Home International at Burgie in Scotland. 

We have received the following brief report from Angharad's Father, Alan:

Burgie is a LONG way North but Angharad and Comet were real stars. In Scottish terms they needed to do the 40K Novice in 3hrs 38 minutes at a speed of 11 kms per hour and a heart rate below 48. They past the finish line at 3hrs 37 mins and 54 secs which was rounded down to 3hrs 37 mins giving a speed of 11.06. Comet's heart rate was 38 before the trot-up and 41 after. A Gold rosette and no penalties incurred for the team from Harri and Comet, so a job well done.  

We've taken some photo's so I hope at least one or two will be worthy of sharing and submitting with an article for the newsletter.

We would like to congratulate Angharad and her family on their success (and also say 'yes please' to some photos and a report!

Almost 50 riders enjoyed this new ride on Sunday despite a turn in the weather which actually obscured Hay Bluff for some of the morning and Gabbie has already received requests to put it on again next year.

We would like to give Gabbie a very big Thank You for taking the time and effort to put on this new Group Social Ride, giving us all the opportunity to ride in this fantastic location.

We did plan to send out our roving rider with the camera but decided against it with the low cloud, however, Celia Saunders was out on course and will be uploading photos onto her web site: www.artantix.co.uk

We have heard from David Singleton, the Ride Organiser of De Cymru's Gower Gambol Ride, that they need more helpers for this two-day ride.  If anyone can help they should contact David via this link to the Gower Gambol Ride page.

Organiser Gabbie Franklin had a phone call tonight (Friday) from a panic stricken rider who had heard that the ride was cancelled.

IT MOST CERTAINLY IS NOT!!!!

Everything is going to plan and even the weather forecast is looking better for the weekend.

 We have received the following email from the BHS via Margaret McKiddie:

 Horse riding and carriage driving has never been so popular as it is today. With Gloucestershire being voted the horsiest county in the UK by Horse and Hound there has never been more of a need for access to safe off road riding.  

Now horse owners, riders and drivers are receiving a much needed grant of £11,000 to improve the bridleways for all non- motorised users in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.

The Forest of Dean Horse Riders and Carriage Drivers Association (FODRCDA) who are affliated to the British Horse Society, have secured the money which is part financed by the European Agricultural Fund for European Development 2007-2013: Europe investing in rural areas and which is being delivered through the South West of England Regional Development Agency with Defra as the managing authority.  

Jenny Carling, Chair of the FODRCDA who has worked for over three years to secure the money, is positive about the benefits to the area. ‘We are hoping that this work will provide the basis for us to develop a trail that will provide a short break destination for horse riders, carriage drivers, mountain bikers and walkers. Also local equestrians desperately need safer off-road riding and driving opportunities.’  

This is good news to Offa's Dyke Group Members as we put on two Group Social Rides and two National Rides in the Forest of Dean each year.

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Margaret McKiddie, the organiser of Sunday's Cranham Ride says:

"Many thanks to all those who volunteered to help, at Cranham this year which meant we were able to man a few awkward gates and also provide water at two points on route. Thanks also to those whose prayers produced such a glorious day after Saturday's downpour. A special mention to Piers who not only walked a long way to man an awkward gate but also supplied riders with delicious toffees! Margaret"

Please accept the Web Master's apologies for the delay in posting which is partly due to helping our daughter move house yesterday and partly due to drying out - it was also pretty wet de-marking the route on Monday!

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Update from Margaret (Ride Organiser):

Carolyn now keeps her horse very close to me and we have been riding the route together and made several alterations, including cutting out the stony track over Sheepscombe common and the bridle path that skirts the polo field, where a match is often in progress (rather too exciting for some). The start and finish of the ride are completely different and all classes now get to ride the nice top loop through Duntisbourne Abbots. NCR now also has 2 distance options and other class distances have changed. The Cranham Ride web page will be updated shortly with a revised ride map.

Please remember that the closing date for entries is for them to be post-marked no later than this Monday (9th August) to avoid paying the late entry fee.

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Latest update from Ride Organiser Gabby (30/07/10):

Preparations for the ride continue well, so set aside Sunday 29th August to join in the fun! There are many opportunities for long canters and the ride potentially could be quite fast. The forest long loop making the full 29km is a personal favourite ride of mine as the tracks are relatively unused and you can bowl on nicely.  

So come along and try out ‘Under Hay Bluff’, there is the possibility that a longer route still could be added next year – I am always one for planning ahead!!!! Look forward to seeing you on the 29th August.  
                                                                                                                                Gabbie.

Check out the latest news on this new ride on the Under Hay Bluff ride page.

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44 riders enjoyed good weather and spectacular views and raised £200 for the local Riding for the Disabled group.  A very big thank you to all who rode and especially to Karen, John and all their helpers for putting on this super ride.  A ride report from Belinda Stewart will appear in the next newsletter (due out next week).

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EGB has asked Margaret McKiddie to organise an Endurance demo to be held at Margam Park on 4th and 5th of September and she is looking for volunteers to help and to take part in the demonstration.  

5 horses with riders and 8 stewards are needed on each day to put on the demo, but the more the merrier as it’s an ideal opportunity to talk to people in and around the area and perhaps recruit some to the sport, or at least come to some of the rides.  

The demo is to be in main arena for 25 minutes and the current thinking is to use:

    3 ER horses/riders  
    2 pleasure horses/riders
    4 people to crew
    4 people to Timekeepers/steward /VETS    

We expect there will be camping and corralling if people can help on both days.  

Support for Margaret would be much appreciated so if you can help in any way please contact her on 01452 813670

 

Karen Jones is able to take more entries for Black Mountain Group Ride this Sunday as long as people email or phone her first.

Telephone 01873 890771

or

 

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Our thanks go to Belinda Stewart and all her helpers who made today's Blaenavon ride such a success.  More than 60 riders entered and enjoyed good weather in the first part of the morning with a bit (!) of rain and wind later.  This was a real shame as there were exceptional views during the preceding days when the route was being marked. 

Photos taken on the day by Celia Saunders can be viewed at www.artantix.co.uk

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We are about to start our summer holiday and though it was time to remind everyone of the forthcoming Offa's Dyke rides.

Blaenavon Group Social Ride on 4th July

Ludlow NCR, CR and ER on 16th to 18th July

Black Mountains Group Social Ride on 25th July

 

 

Pat Conn would like to hear from anyone born or living in Wales who would like to be in the Welsh team to go to the Home International which this year is in Scotland

Please contact Pat Conn, Penpompren, Tregaron, Ceredigion, SY25 6NG Telephone: 01974 298584

 

The De Cymru Group have organised a riding event to be held at Wentwood Forest over the weekend of 29th and 30th May.  

On the 29th May the ride is organised as a fundraiser for Kentucky and on the 30th a fundraiser for the Welsh Team for the Home International.   

There will be three distances offered each day, 32km, 27km and 18km.  There is camping and corralling available nearby (contact organiser – Penny Cavill)  

Information on Stabling and corralling:-  there are two yards that will provide stabling.  Cledd y Tan Farm is the main one about 2.5 miles from the venue at Kilgwrrwg.  It is a fantastic venue with spectacular views and a large outdoor school.   Camping in lorries is £5/night and stabling £12.  A double bedroom is available in the house. There are four stables available.  The other venue is Trem Hafren at Earlswood, slightly closer.  There are three loose boxes available and accommodation for three that get on together in the barn and possibly a paddock.  There is an Inn in the village of Shirenewton called the Huntsman as well.  

There is more information on the EGB de Cymru website and if anyone has any queries regarding this ride or want to enter they can contact Sue Box or Penny Cavill – contact details on their website.

Our trainee reporter (Carolyn) was entrusted with the camera to take a selection of photos around the new Govilon ride in March.  It was no mean feat to ride and take pictures at the same time and some turned out better than others!  It has taken some time to sort them out and we have now put the best ones on a new Govilon ride page. 

Oops! A tricky shot goes wrong! 

Oops! A tricky shot goes wrong!
Check the Govilon page for some better photographs

 

We have received the following email from Helen Boston, the Chef de'Quipe for the Endurance GB Young Riders Squad

Hi everyone

I have today registered the British Young Rider's Endurance Squad with the Tesco shopping vouchers scheme, so that we may take advantage of obtaining various goods for use by the squad at their training weekends and camps throughout the year.  It is an excellent opportunity not only to be more "cost effective" as a group, but also to be able to provide new and up to date equipment for all of the youngsters who are the future of our sport. I am sure that many of you and your friends, colleagues, etc shop at Tesco’s, and like me, some won’t have collected the vouchers due to previously having no need for them.  Well now you do!!  On behalf of all of the "Young Riders" we would like to ask that you collect these vouchers and forward them to me!!  The scheme closes on May 9th this year, so it would be great to collect as many as possible before this date.

Please send any vouchers to Helen Boston at:

28 Ash Grove, Kirklevington, Yarm, TS15 9NQ

Many thanks for your help and support and I look forward to receiving your vouchers shortly!!

Kind regards

Helen Boston
Chef de'Quipe Endurance GB Young Riders Squad

We will be happy to collect any vouchers at either of the Bluebell rides on the 24th or the 25th of April.

A fabulous day was had by all competitors in our first ever Offa’s Dyke Dressage competition with 16 competitors entered – several of which had never taken part in a dressage competition in their lives. This was the brainchild of Fiona Griffiths, who thought it would be a good way to follow on from the series of lessons we arranged over winter at Huntley School of Equitation with Carole Broad FBHS. Most of the participants, but not all had taken part in some of the winter lessons and so our horses were used to the indoor school. Carole very kindly agreed to judge the completion for us free of charge, for which we are very grateful. Fiona’s idea was to have relaxed rules, allowing us to ride in our normal endurance tack and clothing and this was the factor which persuaded several people to have a go. Everyone enjoyed the day and asked us to arrange another competition next winter.

Click here to see the results.

Big "THANK YOU" to Nicola and all her family & helpers for a fantastic ride.  We’d also like to give a big thank you to Belinda (organiser of the nearby Blaenavon Pleasure Ride in July) for guiding her through the many potential pitfalls. We noticed lots of clearing & sawn branches so someone (Dad?) been very busy. Thanks as well to the helpers and check point stewards.  Everyone we spoke to really enjoyed it.  We were certainly blessed with the most perfect weather - and the views were absolutely spectacular! It was a fantastic route, superbly marked, wonderful venue field and perfect weather - what more could you ask for. What a beautiful part of the world we live in.  How lucky are we!  

 Fantastic views on the Govilon Ride

Jan Rath and Lady Dancer enjoy the fantastic view from around the Blorenge

What a tremendous achievement for Nicola to organise a ride - only last year she came to the Offa's Dyke novice training afternoon! It's great to have new people coming forward to organise rides and Offa's Dyke is very lucky to have this - the first of two brand new pleasure rides for 2010. Please remember that Gabby Franklin is running 'Under Hay Bluff' for us later in the summer (see the ride & events page for more details).  

An easy start over the canal

An easy start over the canal

The views were amazing and Carolyn was tasked by the web master to take lots of photos for the website. These will be added to a new Govilon web page in due course as some need a bit of work (if anyone has tried to take photos with one hand whilst steering your horse up a Welsh hill, you'll appreciate the challenge).   Thanks again to Nicola and all her family & friends for giving up their Sunday for us. What a fabulous turnout with 83 entries!

 

adventa and Monmouthshire County Council are working on a joint project that is European funded for multi-purpose routes within Monmouthshire, to include walkers, cyclists and horse riders, that will encourage visitors to Monmouthshire but also benefit the local community.  

They have identified two potential routes in the Wye Valley and would like to show interested parties the proposed routes.  They are holding an open meeting on Wednesday 21 April 2010 at St Arvans Memorial Hall (2 miles north of Chepstow and 3 miles south of Tintern, NP16 6ES) – it will be an informal opportunity for interested parties to drop in and look at the maps and discuss the routes between the hours of 3.30 pm and 6.30 pm.

Click here for more information.

 

Helpers are still needed for the Bluebell National ride on Sunday 25th of April.  Please contact if you can help.

 

We have received the following message and would appreciate it if as many people as possible could respond to this as it could make the Forest of Dean rides even better!  We suggest that you tick the 'Riding Club' option under 'Membership' on the attached form.

IF YOU LIVE IN THE FOREST OF DEAN AREA THIS MESSAGE IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT. PLEASE READ AND THEN OPEN AND COMPLETE THE SUPPORT DOCUMENT ATTACHED. PLEASE FORWARD THIS MESSAGE ONTO ANYONE ELSE YOU KNOW WHO LIVES OR RIDES IN THE FOREST OF DEAN AREA.  

Local bridleways group, The Forest of Dean Riders and Carriage Drivers Association, have been working very hard behind the scenes bidding for funding to create a network of long-distance and local, circular routes across the Forest of Dean District.  

The great news is that our application has cleared the first hurdle and we now need to add some more details to our final bid. We need to show just how many people would appreciate a "joined-up" network of bridleways. As riders and carriage drivers there are obvious benefits to us in creating new paths, and especially linking some of the areas that are currently inaccessible due to busy road crossings or lack of connecting bridleways.

By incorporating options for long-distance rides from Dymock in the north to Tiddenham in the south, there will be business opportunities for pubs and B&Bs en route to enjoy the custom of both local riders and tourists. On top of this the value of equestrianism to the local economy is worth £millions!  That's farriers, tack shops, livery yards, feed and bedding suppliers, instructors, vets etc.... Everyone's a winner!  

So please show your support for a new bridleway network, and ask every one of those people who will also benefit, by filling in the attached form and returning as soon as possible (this week would be really helpful) by email (address is on the form) or hard copy to Jenny Carling, Standfast Annexe, Kilcot Hill, Kilcot, Glos GL18 1NJ. And if you can copy this to friends and service providers as well, that would be great!  

This is a fantastic opportunity and all you need to do is show that you care.  

Thank you  

Nikki Moore On behalf of The Forest of Dean Riders and Carriage Drivers Association

 

Weren't we lucky to have had dry weather last week? 10 days ago the venue was under water & we were panicking about being able to use it, but it was dry & perfect on Sunday.  This years ride was a real 'organisation by committee', Judy Taylor kindly agreed to be organiser on the day so we could all ride our horses & loads of people chipped in to help beforehand.  Entries were much lower than normal, probably due to the fact that people just haven't been able to get their horses fit.  The longer classes in particular had only a third of the usual numbers. 

The new parts of the route rode especially well & there were some lovely views. Carolyn had a lovely ride round with Margaret McKiddie & Bonnie Anne for company, after a very shaky start to the day, when her trailer wheel jammed.  She had to beg a lift from Sue Loveridge in her trailer.  Patches had never travelled with another horse before and never loaded on the left, but she went in after a little persuasion and really enjoyed having a travelling companion.

Thanks to all the volunteers helpers on the day. It was lovely sunny day, but cold if you were standing around.

Carolyn's crew even managed to see some of the Sculpture Trail in between looking after both her and Margaret's horses!  

Forest of Dean March Hares 2010 Ride

 

Our Secretary, Rachel Williams, is completing the final year of an Equine Sports Massage course and she is doing a project on arthritis supplements.  She would like to know what members use or have used in the past, and what they think about the product.  She would be very grateful for your help.  She has so far looked into Cortaflex, Superflex by NAF and Reflex by Hilton Herbs.  If you have tried these, she would like to know what you thought.  She is also keen on hearing about other products.  Please her with any information or questions.

 

Class 1 Intro A (Walk and trot)

Class 2 Prelim 7

Offa’s Dyke Group EGB members and associate members only

Special rule: Normal endurance tack and clothing allowed. We hope this will encourage people to have a go, who may normally be put off by having to wear the correct ‘dressage’ outfit and tack.

Facilities; we have use of the outdoor school to work in and the indoor school with judges box and public viewing gallery for the competition. Fiona will call your test if you like. This can be very helpful if you have trouble memorizing the test! We also have use of the office to deal with entries and hand out results & rosettes to 6th place. The car park is hard standing, but due to numbers we will have to park very tidily and close to fit everyone in. Be prepared for a bit of a wait if you enter both classes.

You will be given times for your tests in advance (see below) and these will be strictly adhered to, so please be on time and ready for the steward to call you to the indoor school. Tests will be judged by Carole Broad and you will be given a copy of your test results with her comments at the end of the competition, along with your rosette if you’re placed. If you can’t wait until the end to get your result, please leave a large SAE at the office for us to post it on to you.

Entry fee £7.50 per class. (Concessionary entry fee £5 per class for those who’ve attended this winter’s schooling lessons subsidised by profit from lessons). Cheques payable to Offa’s Dyke Group of EGB

Entry numbers are strictly limited. Closing date 28 February, but it is already filling fast. Entries on Offa’s Dyke Social Ride entry form (available to download from the ‘forms’ page of the website. Please note on the entry form which classes you wish to enter. Also note if you need Fiona to send you a copy of the dressage tests enclosing an SAE.

To Fiona Griffiths Ty Mawr Farm, Bwlch, Brecon, LD3 7NX.

Any questions tel 01874730987 or Email: info@golden-castle.co.uk

Phone for times on the Friday eve 6pm to 9pm

A volunteer is still needed to help everyone park tidily. Please contact Fiona. This will count as helping for your Trophy card!!

Sorry that there has been no news for a month, it has all been a bit hectic with the weather conditions and getting ready for the March Hares ride.  You would think that getting maps onto the web site would be easy but it still took the webmaster some time to get there!

Offa's Dyke members Sara and  Rachael Rogerson have an exciting new blog – both of these top International Riders are now featured on the Horse and Rider website and will be in the next issue of the Horse and Rider magazine – go to http://www.horseandrideruk.com/article.php?id=814 to see their first blog.

The January Newsletter is now available for down-load and has been mailed out.  This includes an additional note regarding the dates of the Bluebell Rides which have had to go back a week due to a clash of events in the Forest of Dean.  The Pleasure Ride will be on the 24th April and the National CR will be on the 25th April.

The newsletter refers to two additional files on the web site.

Click here for the photos of Sarah and Rachel  from 'A Most Satisfying Year!'

Click here for the photos of Margaret McKiddie's 'Ride Across the Andes'

The first Committee Meeting of 2010 (due 14/01/10) has been cancelled due to continuing problems with snow and ice.  As there were a few items on the Agenda that would have been reported in the Newsletter, we have decided to delay it publication a few days while the Committee details can be sorted outside of a formal meeting.  We hope that you will understand the newsletter's delay and look forward to its publication.

The 2010 Ride Schedule has been loaded onto the EGB website.  However, we have noticed that two rides; Wentwood on 21st February, and Mynydd Machen on 9th May have been attributed to Offa's Dyke in error.  Whilst this has now been corrected, it is possible that the error will appear in the published schedule.  Please note that these rides are organised by our neighbouring group De Cymru.

Belinda, the ride organiser has made the very difficult decision to cancel the Christmas Cracker ride due this Sunday.  She went to inspect the venue at Staunton this afternoon & there is still a lot of snow round the entrance to the forestry & along the track so she decided there & then to cancel the ride.  With more freezing weather on the way during the next few nights it will be lethal & she (quite sensibly) is not prepared to take any risks – it only takes one disaster to spoil the day.  We hope that you won't be too disappointed and will look forward to Maryland in February. 

Please let us know if you got anything horsey for Christmas that is new, novel or interesting that other members should know about.  We will add an item to the web site or include them in the next newsletter.

Our Secretary, Rachel Williams, is completing the final year of an Equine Sports Massage course and she is doing a project on arthritis supplements.  She would like to know what members use or have used in the past, and what they think about the product.  She would be very grateful for your help.  She has so far looked into Cortaflex, Superflex by NAF and Reflex by Hilton Herbs.  If you have tried these, she would like to know what you thought.  She is also keen on hearing about other products.  Please her with any information or questions.

Monmouthshire trails project

Adventa and Monmouthshire County Council Countryside Service, are developing a number of multi-purpose Tourism Trail routes for horse riders, cyclists, walkers and disabled users. We are currently trying to establish circular riding route in Monmouthshire which will appeal to horse riders who wish to bring their own horses and ponies to ride and possibly stay in the area.   

They are keen to hear from anyone who would be interested in the project - whether they have a business which would benefit from the establishment of this trail, if they can offer horse B&B / a field for overnight stays / or other horse-related services, or if they can help as volunteers for particular stretches of the route, or offer any other assistance.    

One proposed route will run through the Wye Valley, a second shorter route, upgrading the Kings Wood Riding Route at Wonastow/ Dingestow is also being considered and a third route through Wentwood Forest.   The next stage will be to call a meeting of interested parties.

If you would like to attend a meeting in the future, find out more about the proposed route, or get involved in the project, or if you can offer help and advice please contact at Adventa on 01873 736035,  or at MCC Countryside Service on 07917597793.

Twins Sarah and Rachael have both been sitting their final year at University, so mum Mary has played a crucial role in keeping all three of their horses fit. Rachel and Gryphon are this year’s EGB national champions, having won the 160km Solstice ER at Cirencester and then capped the season by coming a very close second in the Arab Marathon.  

Sarah being crewed at Sherwood

Sarah has also had some fantastic ER results and is now in California working for international endurance rider Dom Freeman – maybe we should get her to talk to us about her experience when she comes home!   We asked proud dad Steve to give us a brief reminder of the families’ successes in 2009.

For his report and photos click here

We have received the following request to Margaret McKiddie from the wife of the landowner who so very kindly provides the Cranham ride venue:

Dear Margaret,

I wondered if you knew anyone who is looking for a horse to ride, or whether there is an endurance newsletter/email list that I could advertise on  as I really need to find someone locally to exercise my "foster" horse? My little grey mare is back in work and seems to be holding up so I just don't have the time for two. Doods is 15.2hh, Chestnut, Arab and 9 years old but hasn't done anything but hack around since he was backed. He needs a competent rider with a sense of humour and adventure as he is very green in many ways and  hasn't done much in the last 2 years but he is a very kind and fun horse who just wants to get out and do something. The only conditions are that he has to stay here are Overtown and his owner, who is in Israel, is prepared to pay for his livery because of this so the loanee would only be responsible for insurance and day to day costs. He lives out so work is minimal and as I have to be here to do my two horses anyway I check/feed him at the same time so in effect, all someone has to do is turn up a few times a week and ride! I can pass on further details/photos etc if required. If you can help that would be wonderful as he is bored and fat and that's not a good combination for an Arab! 

Many thanks, Pauhla Whitaker     

Overtown Farm, Cranham, Glos, GL4 8HQ, Tel: 01452 864 723

 

Details of the Trophies and Special Rosettes are on the Annual Awards page or can be downloaded as a word file by clicking here.

A copy of the Ride Record Card was sent out with the January Newsletter and is also available here if you have misplaced yours.

Chris Wray's contact details are on the second page of the Newsletter.

The new Offa's Dyke Challenge trophy

This year there will be a new award - the Offa's Dyke Challenge presented by Carolyn Edwards in memory of Tarr Steps Hannah to the Horse/Rider combination scoring the most trophy points in their 3 highest scoring competitions on Offa's Dyke Group rides.

As soon as you’ve finished your last EGB ride, please send your completed card to the Trophy Secretary – Chris Wray at Pentrewheeler Farm, Cwmcarvan, Nr Monmouth, Gwent, NP25 4PL.

You should have received a Trophy claim card and a separate list of the trophies and rosettes available with your Jan 09 newsletter. If you’ve lost yours, please download one from our website – ‘forms’ page 

Hinton Airfield nr Farthinghoe, Brackly, Northants. A toute of approx 15 miles (shorter route available) starting at Hinton Airfield and using local bridleways and private land. Virtually no roadwork.  Click here for more information.

It is with regret that we have decided to postpone the new Urishay pleasure ride due to the very low interest shown for this superb new ride and venue.  It will be rearranged for the first half of 2010.

Margaret says:

"Thank you to everyone who helped, your support was very much appreciated.  Thank you also to 100 riders for entering.  We were blessed with good weather and everyone looked like they were enjoying themselves."

Please note that the photographer has promised that the pictures will be on his web site within 72hours of the event.  His web site is:

www.agcphotography.com

On Sunday, 6th September, there will be a Pembrey Pleasure Ride (South and West Wales group). 16k and 20k plus optional beach ride. From 10.00 am (Last horse out at 12.30) Entries on the day using the EGB Ride Entry form. Price: Members £10.00, Non-Members  £15.00. Please note there will also be a charge to enter Pembrey Park. An entry form and the ride poster may be downloaded from their website: http://www.endurancegb-south-and-west-wales-group.org.uk/

For further information, please contact: Elaine Perry on 01267 241674 or Hilary Kaye on 01558 650358

Note this is at a new venue this year so please pay particular attention to the ride details when they arrive!

It is with great sadness that we heard of the death of Les Riley on Monday 10 August. Les died peacefully in his sleep on Monday night and his wife Margaret asked us to let all their friends in Offa’s Dyke group know.  

Many of you will remember Les helping at rides, most recently at the Forest of Dean Bluebell ride in April. His specialty was the vet steward job and his trademark was his megaphone, which he used to great effect. He and Margaret helped out from the very beginning of Offa’s Dyke, with Margaret acting as secretary and Les as membership secretary of the group. He will be greatly missed.  

The funeral will probably be on Wed 26th August, around 11.0pm at Weobley.  Margaret says "No black, unless someone feels it is disrespectful not to wear black. We want it to be a happy thankful service with jokes and laughter. Les and I always agreed that it was much better to be born lucky than rich and our luck has held to the end."  

Margaret would prefer anyone wishing to contact her to use email.  Please send any messages to us (if you don’t have Margaret’s email address) and we will forward them on.

Update received 0n 15/08/09 from Margaret Riley:

"The whole family has been overwhelmed by the kindness and love that has been expressed following Les' death. We all knew he was an AOK bloke but we were not aware how many lives he has touched. The funeral, although we would far rather call it a grateful celebration of Les' life, is now to be on 27th (Thursday ) Aug. at 11.15 am. Mark (our eldest) and his family  run a pub about 4 miles up the road from Weobley and the wake is being held there. I hesitated to ask them , but they offered. Les would have been so pleased!! So anyone who comes from OD please do come along so we can say thanks for coming to you all. Lyn will put on a good spread we know. We are having family flowers only, but donations to either Water Aid, Herefordshire Citizens Advice Bureau, or Herefordshire Mind would be more than welcome. We hope the funeral director will look after this for us in the church, but we will have collecting boxes for each charity at the wake."

An Equine plus General car boot on Monday 17th August @ Govilon car boot field. 6.30pm start. Gates open for sellers 6pm. Proceeds towards the SWHP (Horse and Pony Welfare) Monmouth. Sellers £5 Buyers 50p

Enquires 07968928870

Directions: Heads of Valleys road (A465) Abergavenny to Brynmawr. At Gilwern roundabout take the first exit signposted Govilon. Field on right after 400 yards in the lay-by. 

The Gower Ride - Provisional date Sunday 16th August  

We have received the following news from David Singleton, the ride organiser.

This is a new De Cymru Pleasure Ride - see the attachment here or go to the De Cymru web site page The Gower Ride Page for more details.  This ride incorporates a stretch of beach on the beautiful Gower coast, however only 50 riders will be allowed to go on the beach but more may go on the other routes of the ride.

Enter Now!!!

Reminder! If you are happy to receive the newsletter by email or downloading to save Group printing costs please let us know

Congratulations to Offa’s Dyke member Sarah Rogerson! This week’s Horse and Hound reports on her victory in the two day 160km ER on her nine year old Arab mare CS Kabira.  Sarah says ‘My mum Mary Stubbs has won the race three times and my sister Rachel won last year. As my sister and I are both at university, mum effectively trained all five winners’. Sarah won at an average speed of 17.3kph in an exciting race. A full report from Mary will be in the next newsletter. Congratulations also to Gill Talbot on Malabar Storm (also former winners of the 160km ER) who this year came second in the 80km ER. Gill had an amazing couple of weeks, having just got home from the Golden Horseshoe Ride, where her other advanced horse Ranazak won top prizes in the Stag class. Margaret McKiddie also successfully completed the Tyro 80km ER on her young horse Scotch Mist.

See the report in the July Newsletter.

 

Update 05/06/09 - Helpers needed, please contact Margaret McKiddie (the ride organiser)

 

 

Happy Offa's Dyke members celebrate their Golden Horse Shoe successes

Congratulations also go out to all the Offa's Dyke members who  rode at Mynydd Machen.  The results have now been posted on the EGB web site and are available by clicking here.  Well done to all our Group members who all did so well at this ride.  Thanks to everyone who has sent in reports on how they got on - these are being reviewed by the newsletter editor who (naturally) has first claim on any material before we can add it to the web site!  In the meantime we are always eager to know how you have got on at any ride, so please email us with your report.

 

Congratulations to Sharon and Rumey for completing the testing  120km FEI** ride in Mont le Soie, Belgium on Sunday 3rd May as part of the Senior Development Squad.  The course was very technical with long climbs and steep descents over often stony forestry tracks. All the horses had  quickly to become accustomed to the foreign razzmatazz, loud music, busy vetgates and loose dogs everywhere, not to mention the thunder claps at the pre-ride vet inspection!

See the full report in the July newsletter.

 

 Delwyn Hall on Chador at the new Mortimer Forest ride April 2009

This is what Delwyn  said about the ride: "Hi Heart of England, what a fantastic ride, thanks to the organisers & helpers, I agree best marking ever I think, decent distances for all, & wonderful training for HS or Wantage. Please do it again next year!  Delwyn & Chador."