Berry Riding Club is already back into the swing of business as usual with a mid week clinic with International 2* eventer Annabel Armstrong from Bowral. Held on January 18th lessons occurred from sun up to sun down, making it a very long but happy day for Annabel and our riders.
The regular Tuesday and Thursday GG’s get togethers have also continued throughout the Christmas and New Year holiday season whenever weather has permitted. During this period our riders take advantage of the GG days to prepare their horses for the local agricultural shows held during January and February.
The temporary grounds at Schofields Lane have served us well but the really exciting news is that Stage 1 of the Shoalhaven Equestrian Centre of Excellence commenced construction before the Christmas break and is now well on the way toward completion which is scheduled for the end of April. The site of the main competition arena has already been levelled. Next step is the application of top soil and then turf sprigging (planting sections of turf crowns in prepared furrows or holes.) Once this is complete it is a matter of diligent watering and lots of patience as we wait for the surface to be riding ready.
The main competition arena will be large enough for four full size dressage arenas or two show jumping rings and should enable all future BRC events to be held at the new grounds. A second (110 x 60M) arena will initially be used as a warm up area but may eventually become the location of a future indoor arena which will really enhance the reputation of the Shoalhaven region as a destination for Equestrian Sport. Stage 1 also includes a dual lane indented entranceway from Schofields Lane which will really improve safety and access. A wash bay area, the erection of the storage shed and spectator shelter will also be part of the amenities. More information on our club can always be found on our Facebook site, the website www.berryridingclub.com or by contacting our club secretary Judy Sweeney m: 0410 506 143 (text is best)
Happy New Year everyone. It looks like being a good one.