COBS AND PONIES

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 51, Issue 61, 22 December 1930, Page 3

COBS AND PONIES

CHILDREN’S DEMONSTRATION.

AN ENJOYABLE AFTERNOON.Under the auspices of the Canterbury Pony and Cob Society, a children’s afternoon was held at the Ashburton A. and P. Showgrounds on Saturday under pleasant conditions. The display was .successful, and attracted a lair number of people from the country districts as well as from the Borough. A large number of boys and girls took part in the parade and. competitions. Among those present were the president of the Association (Air J. Parlane, Christchurch) and the secretary (Mr G. Maginness). One of the vice-presidents (Mr Thomas Gee) was also present, and gave a demonstration of saddling, mounting, riding and the handling of a pony. The programme was carried out with precision and without a hitch. Air E. B. Newton, on behalf of the Ashburton residents, thanked 1 the Society for arranging the programme, aiul said it would be a benefit to the children in the near future.

Mr Parlane thanked the. Ashburton helpers for their assistance. Mr Neave, a member of the committee, brought down from Christchurch three ponies for the afternoon, his action being appreciated. Undoubtedly the feature of the afternoon was the parade, which was organised by Messrs A. Brown and J. \V. Butterick. The arrangements reflected great credit oji the Ashburton members of the committee, Airs P. Storey, Messrs L. Donald and 0. iDigby, and the function met with such success that it is intended to repeat it .at an early date. Tho latter part of tho afternoon was deyoted to. giving rides to all the children, and was much enjoyed. . This is the only society of its kind in New Zealand, and was formed last June by Ashburton and Christchurch enthusiasts. The president stated that the Society was using its influence to encourage A. audi P. Associations to arrange tho various classes so that the competitors would he assured of meeting on common grounds and not have small and large horses competing in the same events. Their aim also was to assist the Associations in the selection of competent judges, and to appoint an official to attend the various shows and give instruction in the care, riding and handling of cobs and ponies. It was hoped to hold further demonstrations in other parts of the province.