New sport rides high at Lake Boga

IT was once a disused and broken down old tennis court that had been deserted for about 20 years.

Now, it has been transformed into an equestrian arena shared by the Lake Boga Riding Club and Swan Hill Pony Club.

The once weed-infested site is used every weekend by the two organisations.

Lake Boga Riding Club worked hard to bring the arena up to standard, including planting trees, in consultation with Landcare, to create windbreaks.

Treasurer Debbie Page said the club met on the second and fourth Sundays of each month.

“The fourth Sunday of the month is a very social day and if you have a horse or not you are welcome to come have coffee,” Ms Page said.

“Our membership fees are really reasonable at only $45, we put a few obstacles out so that members can spend time with their horses on the oval or in the arena.

“The second Sunday of the month is the trail ride and that could be anywhere.

“The aim of our club is to be always welcoming.”

Last Sunday was the first time the club held a trial completion as they are now affiliated with Australian National Working Equitation.

Relatively new to Australia, working equitation is gaining traction.

The sport was pioneered by four countries – Italy, Portugal, Spain, and France – with the first international competition held in 1996.

It was created to celebrate the partnership between horse and rider, with a focus on versatility, agility, athleticism and training.

Last Sunday, not only were local club members involved, one rider came from Mildura to participate.

Judges Andrew and Therese Simms made the four-hour journey from Wodonga.

Mrs Simms said the sport has been in Australia about 10 years but seriously run for the past seven.

“It runs with four phases consisting of a dressage test, ease of handling, an obstacle course for speed and then we have a component for using cattle,” she said.

“We have come up for the weekend to help the club as this is their first official competition.”