Pakuranga Huntswoman Still Rides Side-Saddle

Press, Volume XCVIII, Issue 28870, 15 April 1959, Page 15

Pakuranga Huntswoman Still Rides Side-Saddle

‘Th* Press" Special Service

AUCKLAND, April 14. Mrs J. W. Ryall. of Clevedon, began riding at the age of 18 in her native Ireland. On Saturday Mrs Ryall, who is now 65, proved that, still riding sidesaddle, she could keep up with the best. It was the opening of the season for the Pakuranga Hunt, and about 150 riders attended. Mrs Ryall, her husband, who is also 65, and their daughter Leinster, were among them, but their son, Phil, had hurt his back and could not ride. “It’s terrible,” she said in a rich brogue, discussing her sidesaddle riding. “It’s so conspicuous. When I rode at Gisborne last year, they all looked at me. I wish someone else would ride side-saddle.” Mr and Mrs Ryall did not leave Ireland until they were in their thirties. They rode in County Meath. “They’ve still got the best pack in all Ireland

in County Meath,” Mrs Ryall said firmly. Leinster, whose eyes are as Irish as her name, began riding as soon as she was old enough to sit in a saddle. “I’m 65,” said Mrs Ryall. “I might start tidin’ point-to-point soon.” ‘That’s the last thing we want her to do,” said Leinster, “but she’ll do it if you remind her of it.” The opening of the Pakuranga Hunt season was an historic occasion, for it was the first for the new master, Mr T. H. Brooks. At breakfast before the hunt began, the retiring master, Mr O. R. Self, who was master for 15 years, was presented with an inscribed silver tray. The country was unfortunately “blind”—the grass was too long to hold a good scent —but of three hares put up, the hounds killed one.