A great afternoon was had by all the participants at Pinetrees Riding at the centre’s 41st birthday celebrations on 26th July. The event, sponsored by SandyBlue and supported by many volunteers, helped fundraise for ACCA, the children´s charity to raise funds for their Back to School project.
The popular Fancy dress was filled as usual and the judges Bev McHale and Paula Siebert, had a job to choose the winner, the theme being Portugal. Maia, riding Frodo, was declared the winner of the trophy and big rosette for the theme Flowers of Portugal.
This was followed by a treat: Karolina Bialek, a former Pinetrees pupil, gave a beautiful presentation of Dressage on her black Lusitano Dragão. The progress in this pair shows her diligence in training over the years. Karolina trains under Iris Miranda, of Lusitanus Miranda, and takes part in national level shows. Judge Bev McHale gave an informative commentary of the movements presented by the pair.
An obstacle course was the next challenge, with 3 different class levels, followed by clear round jumping. German visitor Laura Frobeen won the first Category, and a jubilant Sienna was delighted to win her first SandyBlue trophy and special rosette.
One unmounted activity was an art competition, won by Sophie, a visitor. Local businesses tempted competitors with equestrian items from Horse World and Beatriz, of B.A.G. displayed her bespoke, and beautiful bags and sun hats.
Local caterer, Stewart Lindsey, kept us supplied with cold drinks, hamburgers, hot dogs and even a vegan hot dog! This was topped off with slices of the delicious Pinetrees Birthday cake from Pastelaria Charlotte.
The result of the donations from the event gave ACCA €1000 to use for their Back to School project. The money raised will be used to supply back packs, filled with useful items, destined for underprivileged children so they can happily and confidently start the new school term. A filled back pack costs €45. Well done to all who contributed in one way or another.
