AFTER a year like no other, Tamborine Pony Club celebrated team spirit and resilience at their 2020 awards presentation and breakup celebration.
With parents and riders getting into fancy dress and competing in mounted games, followed by pizza and a water slide, it was a joyous end to a challenging year.
A spokesperson said despite COVID-19 wreaking havoc on many aspects of life, it had been a great year for the club.
"It has been a different and difficult year but club members have supported our ongoing efforts, be it maintenance and improvement of the grounds, attending rallies and competitions and, most importantly, supporting each other in our endeavours," the spokesperson said.
"Our breakup was the opportunity to present awards to our riders for their achievements for the year, and to acknowledge and thank the key people in our club, be they instructors, committee or other members who assist."
Certificates were presented to riders at different levels, reflecting their riding ability and their horsemastership.
Fuschia Criss received her C Star certificate, while Mitchell West and Maddie Fowkes got their C certificates.
Eleisha Saville, Matilda Winn and Caitlin Whiteman were presented with their D certificates.
Major award winners were also honoured.
The most improved rider in the under 12 category was Priya Mohrholz, while the winner for riders aged 13 to 26 was Mitchell West.
Eleisha Saville was given the under 12 encouragement award and Kyah Rhodes won the 13 to 26 category.
Talia Criss was named the club's most successful competitor, riding Glengannon Evangaline.
Dannan Isherwood received the Tamborine spirit award.
"(The award) goes to a rider who best represents the club's values and show a great attitude," the spokesperson said.
John Hughes received the President's Award, which recognises a member who is active in supporting the club.
"In 2020, John was the chief instructor and also continued with the maintenance and development of our cross country course," the spokesperson said.
"2021 will be another good year for our club.
"Tamborine Pony Club offers community members many opportunities (including) regular free instruction for all levels of competency, the ability to ride in a safe, supervised environment, and to meet and socialize with people who share your interests, and access to rallies, clinics, camps and competitions."
For more information, visit the Tamborine Pony Club website or Facebook page.
The 2021 club sign-on is on Saturday, February 6 from 10.30am to midday, with a free sausage sizzle.
