Benalla Clydesdale and Heavy Horse Driving Day was run at the Moorngag Hall and Recreation Reserve on Saturday, May 7, and was a great success with 39 horses in attendance.
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Well-known horseman from Katamatite, Mr Bernie Rice, judged the Open Ring, and had 13 horses in some of his events.
There was an interesting mix of obstacles for the horses and drivers to negotiate, first in long reins then with a tyre, a sled and finally in pairs.
Competitors said they had a really enjoyable day.
The Novice events were also well patronised, with many adults and children also deciding to try out driving a Clydesdale horse for the first time under the watchful eye of Novice Judge, Mr Bruce Hamblin from Toolleen.
There was also a wonderful turnout for judge Mrs Bev Bell from Tallygaroopna in the Junior ring, where the children tackled a variety of obstacles with their ponies and finished the day with novelty driving events and a handymount class.
The crowd was estimated at about 400, which is the largest attendance ever for this event, which has been run by the Victorian branch of the Commonwealth Clydesdale Horse society for more than 20 years.
Many thanks to all the stewards, organisers, competitors and spectators for making it such a memorable day.