Gail Jones Driving Clinic Held at The Ranch
By Ursula Jensen
A
slightly different format to the usual Combined Driving Event held annually at The Ranch this year but a super learning opportunity for all drivers just the same. Ellen Hockley and Steve Laughlin have generously offered their ranch each spring to driving enthusiasts over the years; a chance to blow out the winter cobwebs and prepare for the season ahead. This year on June 11-14, Gail Jones from Calgary came to offer an individual dressage clinic and stayed to judge the two day Driving Trial on June 13-14. The Ellen Hockley, Percheron X atmosphere was friendly, relaxed and a Photo by Ursula Jensen good way to start the season. Everyone chose the dressage test of their choice which was marked and Gail gave additional helpful commentary. A cones course was set up, measured and timed and each afternoon a 5 km marathon course complete with 5-6 hazards (obstacles) was also flagged and timed. Sixteen entries participated with a variety of hitches and sizes; everything from VSE, ponies, horses and drafts. Hitches came as singles, pairs and four-in-hand. As always safety was a priority and the weekend ran smoothly and without a glitch. Anyone remotely interested in the sport of driving should really consider this event as a starting point. There is always a good mix of beginners and more advanced drivers and the atmosphere is always friendly and inclusive. The Ranch is located in Pritchard,
5 Acre Hobby Farm In Merritt Area
Kathy Stanley, Welsh pair Photo by Ursula Jensen
Karen MacGregor, VSE Photo by Ursula Jensen
Julie Pilon, Fjord stallion Photo by Ursula Jensen
We RENT SELL and SERVICE
SUMAS Equipment Ltd. Beautiful sprawling 1,566 sq. ft. rancher on 5 acres in Lower Nicola. Property is set up for horses. Fenced, 23X16 open barn with tack room, and 32X60 shop. Lots of water and easy access off Hwy 8. $649,900 MLS® 82110
We can offer: Loader Tractors, Manure Spreader, Backhoe, Tree Spade, 4WD Utility Vehicle, Tiller, Finishing Mower, Rotary Cutter, Blade, Box Blade, Rake, 30 hp Zero Turn Mower
Please contact: Debra Schindler
250-315-3548 • 1-877-841-2100 www.movingrealestate.ca 20 • Saddle Up • August 2009
Farm, Garden and Outdoor Equipment 604-857-7760 • Allied Centre, 3193 - 262 Street, Aldergrove, BC, sumasequipment@gmail.com
Moving Real Estate BC Ltd.
We rent trailers for pick up, or we can deliver in all of southern BC, and we sell to Washington State too. 10/09