Hanford pupils, from across the school year groups, took part in the National Schools Equestrian Association (NSEA) Grassroots and Regional Points League (RPL) competitions at Moreton Equestrian Centre last weekend. The girls represented Hanford brilliantly throughout the morning, showing incredible team spirit and camaraderie towards each other as well as towards other teams competing. Hanford came away with rosettes in every class, many of them being placed first in their class.
Hanford won the 40cm class, 50cm class, 60cm class, 75cm class (pictured below) as well as coming second in the 85cm class. In addition, many girls were placed individually.
It was a very successful and happy day. Charley Pearson, Head of Riding at Hanford, said, “This was a wonderful team effort, everyone played their part beautifully including the ponies! I was proud of how the girls supported and encouraged each other. A big thank you to the parents who helped by transporting ponies and girls to Moreton and got them to the rings at the right time, in the right kit. This was no mean feat at 9am on a Sunday morning!”
Riding lessons are an important part of Hanford life. The excitement amongst the girls at morning break, when the riding lists are put up, is palpable. As well as riding, the girls to learn how to look after the ponies, grooming them during their morning break with help from the riding staff. Nearly all the girls ride at Hanford and there are many different standards and ponies to suit.
Hanford is a Pony Club linked centre and is lucky to have its own indoor school which is used all year round. Recently the stables were awarded a top Five Star rating by Dorset County Council.
Categories: Hanford School School News
