Fifteen enthusiastic young riders gathered under blue skies at the Omahu Valley Arena in Puriri on October 11 and 12 for the Hauraki Western Riding Club Youth Camp.
Designed with youth development at heart, the camp was packed with activities that combined fun, learning, challenge, and connection.
Riders took part in riding lessons, roping practice, cattle boxing with the mechanical cow, formation riding, and horsemanship sessions, all under the watchful eyes of skilled instructors and supportive volunteers.
A highlight of the weekend was the Great Omahu Adventure Race – a high-energy, team-based challenge that had riders completing challenges, orienteering, laughing, thinking on their feet, and working together, both in and out of the saddle. There were also fun relay games, including the wrangling of the club hobby horses, bobbing for apples and getting a peg out of a plate full of flour with your teeth.
“It’s all about helping our kids grow into confident, respectful, and capable young people, with horses by their side,” club president Laurie Webb said.
“It was fantastic to see smiles all round and horsemanship skills and confidence in their ability improved throughout the weekend.
“Our club continues to thrive, and that’s thanks to each and every one of our members who shares our vision and values.
“A huge thank you goes out to our committee members, the Omahu crew and the wonderful helpers who made this weekend possible – from teaching, to meal prep to saddle check, and the countless hours spent on foot supporting our littlest riders, we couldn’t have done it without you.”
DETAILS: The club meets once a month. Email haurakiwrc207@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page.
