A1 Weather, A1 Venue, A1 Event!

 Danethorpe, 17th April 2022

The season could not have got off to a better start than A1 Events first outdoor meeting of the year. For most drivers this was their first outdoor competition of 2022, and Danethorpe is a great opener.

The huge grass field we use allows lots of space to park, harness and warm up. The grass was short but lush green, as a lot of ponies and horses appreciated, both underfoot and as a reward for their hard work! The sun shone, but there was a cool breeze which, again, many enjoyed for their first test. The wooded areas were cool and the water obstacle was inviting for marathon competitors.

There were so many different classes arranged, from small ponies dashing around 10 cones and 4 indoor-type obstacles, to open horses and a 4 in hand enjoying a long flowing 20 cones course and a marathon with 4 obstacles.

The ICD classes are proving popular and were the most closely contested of the day.

Clare Joynson finally prevailed to take her maiden win in the singles class, with only 0.03 of a point separating Vicky Sandall and Joceline Smith for 2nd and 3rd respectively.

Similarly, the ICD Small single pony class provided a back and forth battle between Victoria Smith and Rachel Ison with Victoria clinching it in the obstacles. We are sure Rachel will be out for revenge at the next meeting!

There are numerous dressage tests that can be chosen to cover all standards and experience, indeed A1 Events strives to encourage people into the sport by providing events which help drivers improve and move through the grades, or just have fun! This weekend certainly provided all of this and more.

We also have a great set of stewards, without whom no event could take place. We are very grateful to our lovely experienced stewards who give up their time so drivers can enjoy themselves, and they in turn love to pass on their knowledge to new people. You’d be surprised how many different jobs there are, all essential to the smooth running of an event.

Come along and join us!

Our first event got us ‘in the mood’ and we can’t wait for our next one at Danethorpe on 8th May. See you there!

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