COLD WIND and driving rain was enough to keep the majority on us in our houses on Wednesday, but it did nothing to dampen the spirits of the 60 or so horses and riders at Rowanlea Riding School as their traditional New Year Trek got under way.
Owner of the stables, Mr David Conchie, said the riders were keen and spirits were high, and there was hope that perhaps conditions would improve as the trek got underway!"
He told the Guide & Gazette. "We have a good turn-out. There is usually ar
ound 60 to 70 riders, but we will do a head-count before we move off. The riders are from all age groups, with the youngest being about six years old."
The yard was a hive of activity before the trek began, with horses and ponies being prepared well in advance of the 11 a.m. start time. The animals seemed as keen as their riders to be on the move and many were decked out with tinsel for a festive look. Even Santa was out and about on his trusty steed rather than his reindeer for the occasion! It was a marvellous sight to see these beautiful animals trekking together and heartwarming to see everyone in such great spirits!
The route for the trek covers Woodhill, then down to Pitskelly, across the roundabout and on to Barry Buddon. It takes about three to four hours to complete, and the horsemen/women gather back at the stables to heat themselves up with soup and stovies afterwards.
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