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Pledges Make Prizes for the North Wales Group
With Christmas approaching and signs of ‘Late Night Shopping’ all around, the North Wales Regional Group of the AHS held their own equestrian retail extravaganza on Saturday 17th November; and we are very pleased to announce the Trophy Fund Pledge Auction was a resounding success!
In excess of 80 Lots were very kindly donated by group members, local equestrian businesses and prominent names in the Arabian world intended to tempt people to extend their Christmas lists and happily go home with a bargain…. Or 4!
Keen shoppers studied the catalogue and a busy viewing period quickly passed. At 8pm kick-off it was standing room only and Emyr Lloyd of the local Ruthin Farmers Auctioneers cheerfully steered the assembled bidders through a vast array of goodies selected to appeal to followers of every discipline. Grooming products, bridles, rugs, feed and even dentistry for the horses were balanced by jewellery, clothes, riding hats, hi-viz safety gear and indulgent festive fayre for the owners.
The few reserves placed on some of the star items were utterly unnecessary and every item sold - from fluffy socks to a session with a McTimoney chiropractor. Bidding cards flew rather furiously for the Equus Eye stallion wall plaque (very generously pledged by sculptor Sally Reece). He eventually found a new home with Emma Elliot where he is certain to look very handsome indeed and cost less to feed than her own young colt! The artistic appeal continued as prints by Alan Hunt, Judi Kent Pyrah and Peter Upton raised over £400. Two coverings to very different stallions were auctioned; the first being to a 14.2hh PBA PBW Riding Pony, and the second to a tricoloured warm-blood. Both were purchased locally and it will be very interesting to see the resulting foals in 2009!
‘The Arabian Magazine’ pledge of a three issue subscription, binder and SAX calendar was a perfect purchase for a keen newcomer to Arabs. Those already thinking of next season bid to replenish their kit-baskets with, fittingly, Welsh show-ring potions from Arena Products (Anglesey based supporters), and Alva International (pledged by Madeleine of Arabian Emporium). The National Sweet Itch Helpline assisted two bidders in banishing the 2008 bugs early, while others chose to focus on the looming winter and ‘treat their feet’ to top of the range Wellingtons pledged by local saddlers. One consistent supporter of the Group pledged one of his own handmade shepherd’s crooks, beautifully crafted in hazel and buffalo horn; to him, and to all who pledged and supported, we extend a very hearty ‘thank you!’. We were astounded by the generosity we encountered, both on the night, and of the five studs who have made trophy donations directly.
Auctioneer Emyr Lloyd, Organiser Laura Pyke
Expert Porter (committee member) Emlyn Pritchard
& Emma Elliot’s Equus Eye purchase
Bidders focused on the action!
 Lot 4 – kind temperament, quiet ride, good to catch, shoe, clip and in traffic…!
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