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2011 RIDE REPORT

Farnham Bluebell Ride 2011

This year the ride took place on Sunday 8th May, a little later than normal due to the bank holidays, despite this there were still many bluebells in the woods. The tracks were hard because of the lack of rain in March and April, so the going was slow.

Over three hundred riders participated choosing the five, ten or fifteen mile routes. Last minute problems such as defective lorries or missing shoes resulted in some cancellations. Those who did make it on the day had a thoroughly wonderful time.

There was a real "fun" atmosphere with some groups riding in fancy dress. The group in bright pink tutus were truly a sight to behold. It was a great day for young and old with lots of lead-rein ponies, groups of teenagers and veteran riders and horses. A few riders parted company from their horses, thankfully there were no serious injuries.

Stewards were provided by Farnham PCC, and many participants praised the event's organisation. We had a large number of entrants from out of our area who were astounded by the quality of hacking we have here.

Homemade refreshments were provided at the start and the halfway point, and proved very popular. Thanks to the generosity of local farmers and landowners roadwork was minimal.

Cindy Sporborg was sadly missed after hosting and organising the event for many years. Regular riders passed on their condolences and kind words. We hope that she would have been pleased with our efforts and the day was a legacy to her that she would have been proud of.

Our photographer Aurar once again took superb photos recording the event. Photos are available from the website.

Entry forms for the ride are available to download from the website, saving time, paper and postage. Our email database is growing and enables us to pass on information about the ride. To join this database send an email to bluebell.ride@btinternet.com . We do not share or sell this information.

Sponsorship this year was for Farnham Church, The Isabel Hospice and The St Clare Hospice. There was a healthy competition for the riders to gain the most sponsorship with prizes on offer. Our sponsors this year were "In The Saddle" who supplied the rosettes given to each entrant, they also supplied booklets of their holidays which contained stunning action photos. We would also like to thank Daniel Robinson, Funeral Directors of Bishop's Stortford for their kind support.

We look forward to next years ride and to seeing familiar riders and horses once again. We also hope to welcome many new and first time horses and riders to this fun filled event in the beautiful Herts and Essex countryside.