The Fitz Big Weekend

The Fitzwilliam’s one day event weekend is always the busiest on the club’s calendar, and this year was no exception. With a full programme of classes, from lead rein minis on Saturday to the 1m class finishing on Sunday afternoon, the days were action packed from start to finish. The sun shone on Saturday morning raising hopes of a fine weekend, but riders in the later classes battled a full weather forecast, contending with rain, wind and hail – not ideal conditions for a dressage test, but the intrepid competitors coped admirably.

“It was lovely to see so many little ones, particularly those from our own Branch, starting out on their eventing journey and enjoying it immensely,” says DC Philippa Patel. “Organisers Deb Chapman and Harriet Rearden had put in so much hard work to ensure that the Saturday went like a dream. They had put together a fantastic team who all played their part magnificently on the day. A huge thank you to them all.”

Sunday dawned fine and sunny, spirits were high and there was an upbeat and happy atmosphere. The team of tireless volunteers worked hard to make sure the day ran smoothly for Pony Club and open competitors alike. Both the show jumping and cross country proved fair but testing; the courses ran well and the going was good, most completed and competitor after competitor returned with a smile on their face. Well done everyone!