Standing as the largest pony dressage competitions in Victoria the ASPR are still breaking new ground in the development and progress of the performance pony, with the inclusion this year of young stock and material classes. while the band of actual workers that are the ASPR are small they don't lack the high motivation needed, Margie once again proved super woman does exist and again competitors must thank her for all her work, behind Margie holding on to her cape was Tina who was responsible for the sponsorship ....and how was the prizes!! it goes without saying thank you to all these sponsors who believe that Pony dressage here in Victoria is on its way.

So what happened this year.... well the introduction of the young stock classes while number reflected perhaps just not the right time of the year [do not panic the youngsters will be held at a different time in 09] this is a positive step forward for breeders.

With the classes running up to 3yr olds in hand and at liberty [fessing up, I was brave till the last minute and pulled our 3yr old slightly hot boy, the thought of him gallivanting around without me on the end of the lead, left all sorts of visions running thru my head...] but I should not have worried the bubs thought it was a hoot to have their 4minutes of pure freedom, some made the most of it, and at the end of the day no disastrous antics, no accidents, but I bet plenty of blissfully tired bubs hit the straw and slept well. 

The next event was the material classes, again purely for the young guns, were they are judged under saddle to a level equal to their age, then stripped off and judge on conformation and in-hand, again this is going to grow into a big, big event, allowing breeders to show their stock within a class especially designed for their age group. Coupling of these events will be a growth towards the marketing of selling and breeding, a huge undertaking by the ASPR to get it off the table and into the running.

Salisbury My Guy an upstanding rich bay 4yo 14.2 Riding Pony/Part Welsh Gelding. "Shorty" bred by Diane Jose and Shane Doherty of Salisbury Stud. I purchased Shorty when he was 1 ½ as a furry little feral in the paddock. He by no means looked like a superstar, but he just had this spunk about him

Shorty was broken in by Briony Payne and has the constant tutelage of instructor Justine Greer (FEI Dressage rider/trainer).  Justine has been a huge help. It has been a long time since I had ridden a young horse and needed as much encouragement as I could get.  This pony has the most wonderful brain and can do attitude. He has been really easy to train and is always so willing.  He has wonderful movement, with a lovely floaty trot, and rocking horse canter, make him a pleasure to ride.

This is a pony that I wish I could clone and have three of, he really is a little treasure and my best mate. Sometimes I have to stop and remember he is still a baby.

We look forward to the ASPR dressage comp in the near future and wish everyone the best of luck and a BIG thankyou to the organising committee for all there efforts to put on a wonderful weekend.