The showjumping runs from 9.30am to around 4pm, sometimes earlier, sometimes a bit later, depending on how many people attend the show.
The role of the person on the gate is simply to open the tape for the competitor entering then close it and use the walkie-talkie to tell us in the caravan the competitor's number.
They also help by putting up jumps which are knocked down in their corner of the ring and by catching loose horses if riders fall off as they invariably head for the gate! Sometimes the competitors need a bit of organising and chivvying. Half of them will probably need to be told the jump-off course. Anyone will soon get the hang of it, no experience required and it doesn't need to be a "horse person". That boyfriend, spouse, spare brother/sister who normally just hangs around will do nicely.
We will provide lunch and drinks from the the catering van. We stop for lunch for about half an hour and you can usually take a quick break in between classes.
If a member can provide someone to do the gate for the whole day then at the following club show we will give you the full day entry for classes and the levy, effectively worth £15. If you can't make the following show for any reason we'll hold it over for you until you do come.
I will allocate this on a first come first served basis for the remaining 2 shows and the Open so the dates are: 15th August, 5th September and 19th September. For the last show the free day will obviously have to be the same day.
If you wish to offer your services either ring me on 07956 636852 or email webmaster@ripleyriders.org.uk
The person must be 18+ years of age.
Michael Kitson