Successful summer show for Caithness RDA
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THE Caithness branch of the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) held a successful summer show at the indoor riding centre in Halkirk.
Compere for the day was Jimmy Johnston who welcomed everyone along. Special guests were Morag Miller, honorary president, and John and Heather Rosie, daughters Claire and Emma, and Emma’s children, Aaron, Paige and baby Saira.
John and Heather and family are outstanding supporters of Caithness RDA and have held many fundraisers over the last 10 years.
Coach for Ride 1 was Leeann Hope. Trophies were presented Dennis Lundie, and rosettes by Heather Rosie and her granddaughter Paige.
The Jingle Shield commemorating the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee for endeavour: Jonathon Newlands. Dr Pam McMorran Memorial Shield for achievement: Aden Herrick. The Curlew Shield commemorating the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee for enthusiasm: Ben Douglas.
Shield presented by Liz Hewitson for endeavour: Amy Baxter. Wick High School YPI 2013 Shield for Progress: Laurie McPhee. Simpson Cup for best rider: Fern Hayley.
Coach for Ride 2 was Erin Russell. Trophies were presented by Robbie Keith and rosettes by Heather and her grandson Aaron.
Dr Pam McMorran Memorial Shield for Improvement: Ellie McIvor. Miss Joan Treglowan Memorial Shield for Progress: Amaro McArdle. Wick High School YPI 2013 Shield for best rider: Connie Aldridge.
Dr Pam McMorran Memorial Shield for achievement: Sarah Stewart. Miss Joan Treglowan Memorial Shield for endeavour: John Fraser. Miss Joan Treglowan Memorial Shield for Improvement: Natasha Gunn.
Horse Care Certificates Stage 1 and Stage 2: Elle Boulton.
Coach for Ride 3 was Liz Hewitson.
Trophies were presented by Willie Budge, and rosettes by Patricia Sutherland.
The Melody Shield commemorating the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee for progress: Kaitlin Manson. Wick High School YPI 2013 Shield for Enthusiasm: Pebbles Sawyer. Memorial Trophy presented by Maggie’s West Coast Friends for improvement: Freyja Graham. Shield presented by Liz Hewitson for Endeavour: Orla Smith.
Volunteers received certificates for one, five, 10 and 15 years of service.
Tracker certificates were not handed out on the day, but will be sent to the schools after the summer holidays. Jean Clasper records all the information for the Tracker system.
There was a special presentation as Morag Miller, honorary president, awarded a long-service medal to Buster, the much-loved piebald cob owned by Brian and Sarah Trafford. Buster, now 23 years old, has been going to RDA for 13 years and it was felt this was an appropriate time for him to receive his medal.
He won’t be retiring and it is hoped he will be back with the group after the summer holidays.
Photographer for the day was Neil Buchan.
The final presentation of the day was made to Alex Henderson. Alex started at Caithness RDA 11 years ago as a side walker/leader. She has since held the posts of RDA group coach, trustee, RDA coach, head coach and vice-chairperson, as well as horse provider and transporter, coach developer and county coach for Highland.
Alex will be greatly missed by all at Caithness RDA as she heads to take up the position of centre manager / lead coach at the Brae Riding for the Disabled Association in Dundee. Jimmy Johnston made the presentation to Alex.
