SPORT // EQUESTRIANISM & GOLF
The last day of competition ended with the 1.1m , 1.2m , 90cm show jumping ( SJ ) and the 90cm jumping with style ( JWS ). Tensions were again high when Harriet qualified in 1st place in the 1.1m class and therefore rode last in the jump off . Unlike the 1m class , the course proved difficult to navigate and clear rounds were sparse . It wasn ’ t to be , with a pole down and a relatively slow time , Harriet finished 5th . Harriet then went on to win , and also be placed 2nd in , the 1.2m class ; unfortunately , this class isn ’ t deemed as a Championship class due to the nature of the qualification .
The excitement continued in the 90cm classes , both with the same three riders in each , Poppy , Sophia and Martha ; Poppy stepping up to the JWS challenge at the last minute . In the 90cm ( SJ ) Sophia was the only team member to go clear and was placed 20th individually out of 186 riders – an exceptional result given the size of the class . In the 90cm ( JWS ), our team had lots of style but , unfortunately , with poles down in both the show jumping and cross-country phases , they were out of contention .
We all had an enjoyable time and were pleased just to be able to compete and represent the school . There were inevitably some highs and disappointments along the way , but everyone stuck together as a team and supported each other in their journey . A big thank you to all the parents who continually support the riders , who get up at ridiculous hours to bath and plait ponies , and are prepared to travel great distances to support the team .
GOLF
Golf lessons have been quite a hit this year ! With the fabulous KP Club located almost on our doorstep , it would be amiss not to make the most of it . Ben , Toby and the team at the KP have seen tens of our students week-in , week-out throughout this year ( apart from in the midst of winter when even the sturdiest golfer would struggle to muster up the motivation !) We have seen students across the year groups find their passion on the golf course . From the absolute beginner to our more adept handicap heroes , every one of our young golfers have committed time and energy to learning and practising the game .
Ampleforth was our match of the season – a tough match on a stunning course , but once again , our young golfers did us proud .
Golf lessons will resume next year , as will a more buoyant programme of fixtures to add to the calendar . Exciting times ahead , and perhaps some future Tiger Woods in the making too !
LKH
52 THE POCKLINGTONIAN