Amateurs get chance to show skill

WITH the Laidley Show finished for another year the Laidley Showgrounds will now turn its attention to the Youth and Amateur Show.

Tracey Keller from the Downs Arabian Club said the Youth and Amateur Show on July 31, was an event for new comers, first timers and everyone who loved horses.

“It is one of the few shows of its kind in the country designed exclusively for youth and amateur riders to give them an opportunity to compete and refine their showmanship skills,” she said.

“The popular format sees professional riders and handlers run the show, as well as providing advice to competitors.

“Classes cater for all ages from very young children in leading-rein classes to traditional show classes and novelty events.”

The juniors are split into three age groups consisting of nine years and under, 10-13 and 14-17, while the amateur events are open to all ages over 18.

The low key event is the perfect opportunity for new comers to get involved in their first horse show.

Tracey said the event was quickly becoming one of the most enjoyable horse shows during the year.

“It's fun, entertaining and very family friendly.”

Entrants for the event will come from as far north as Gympie and as far south as New South Wales.

As well as being a great event for first timers, the event also gives entrants a fantastic opportunity to learn from the judges.

Kate and Doyle Dertell will be the judges this year, bringing world-wide experience with them, which will be passed on to competitors.

With spectators entering for free, Tracey said there were often people who came for a look one year and entered events the following year.

The Youth and Amateur Show is for Arabian and Arabian derivative horses registered with the Arabian Horse Society of Australia, with entrants competing in ridden and led events as well as novelty events.

There are wonderful prizes on offer, including $200 vouchers to Horseland and encouragement awards in all categories.

The Laidley Ladies are catering the event which begins at 7.30am and runs through until about 4.30pm when the day will be finished with a barbecue.

The Downs Arabian Club is still seeking further sponsorship for the event and anyone wishing to sponsor an event or to compete on the day can do so by contacting Tracey on 0403 837 375.