Gymkhana draws riders of all ages

A smaller number of riders than usual did not prevent those participating in the Meekatharra Gymkhana from having a great day.

Despite the heat, riders of all ages — from as far away as Dandaragan, Geraldton and Dongara — competed in a variety of events testing the skills of horse and rider.

Leanne and Peter Howden left Meekatharra 20 years ago but vowed they would come back as a family whenever possible.

Now the fourth generation of Howdens is ready to ride in the gymkhana.

Darcy Howden, 5, was to have ridden this year but her pony went lame.

Because of low numbers, heats were not required so the program moved at a cracking pace, keeping riders, stewards, judges and the starter on their toes.

A longer lunch break than usual was very welcome as horses and riders slaked their thirst and escaped the heat for a while.

After lunch, the Barrel Race and Texas Keyhole were run as timed events.

Some great times were recorded in the barrels but the keyhole proved too good for many, with quite a few eliminated.

One very young rider who successfully completed the keyhole, was heard to say to the ladies, many of whom had been eliminated: “That’s how it’s done!”

Peter Elliot on Mingah Springs, of Meekatharra was the Leading Gent rider for the day while Nicole Howden, Geraldton, was the Leading Lady.

Gabby Rieck, of Dandaragan, won the Junior Leading Rider and the Sub Junior Leading Rider was Kayden Hopgood of Geraldton.

Meekatharra scooped the pool for overall best times in the Barrel Race, with Peter Elliot being fastest, followed by Michaela Mongoo.

Janine Mongoo finished in third.