The Grong Grong Recreation Ground came alive once again last Saturday for the first time in a long while as more than 50 competitors participated in a packed day of gymkhana action.

The Grong Grong Horse Sports (GGHS) members helped rejuvenate the arena to prepare it for a welcome return of equine action.

GGHS secretary Kellie Wilson hailed the day as a resounding success in an event, which had exceeded expectations with such a large turnout.

“We had over 50 competitors from all over; Wagga, Junee, Grongy, Coolamon, Narranderra, Collingullie, Marrar, Stockinbingal, Cobramilla and even a couple from Toowoomba and Tamworth,” she said.

“The raffles on Friday at the Royal Hotel, Grong Grong, were really well attended, with lots of people coming to stay for a night or two.

“We had 82 vehicles and trucks, lots of spectators too.”

The event was blessed with favourable weather conditions for the competitors and the grounds themselves were a talking point, earning praise from visitors.

“Luckily, the cloud cover stayed for the day and there was a breeze which kept

the temperature down,”

Kellie said.

“We had an array of competitor skill levels, from beginners on the lead, to professional horsemen and women.

“The grounds were complimented highly by all.

“We are very lucky that a local resident, Terry Cassidy, slashed before the event and the committee tidied up the rest.”

Kellie said all the hard work by the GGHS members preparing the grounds had paid off, as much interest had been shown regarding future events being held at the arena.

“Lots of locals and committee members manned the gates and helped with anything needing doing,” she said.

“It was a great way to spend a Saturday and have a yarn with the neighbours.

“The committee has been working on the arena surface to make it fit for purpose for upcoming Australian Barrel Horse Association (ABHA) events and we are currently in discussions with a professional from Tamworth to run Reined Cow Horse events, which is very exciting.

“In discussion, but not confirmed as yet, is another gymkhana in February and a Team Yarding event in March, in association with NSW Team Yarders, which will be a weekend-long event.”

Sponsorship again played an important role in getting the gymkhana up and running.

“Our sponsors were well supported and appreciated by all on the day to get us where we are,” Kellie said.

“They include Miller and James Real Estate, Riverina Ag Repair, David Perram Concreting, Judds Equine and Contracting, Roobie Range Riding School, Holser Maintenance and Ferguson Family Farms.”

GGHS is always on the lookout for more members, volunteers and much-needed sponsors.

Anyone interested in joining GGHS, volunteering or sponsoring can contact Kellie on 0401 318 710.