Hankey Pankey

Our love affair with Hankey Pankey (alias Paris) began before Christmas 2004. He was initially a rather complicated person but by spring 2006, Harry and he were progressing well, with several wins.  Harry though, preferred Dougal, and we were lucky enough to be offered a place for Paris at the famously renowned and excellent school that is Rookwood, with his own private tutor, Mary Edmondson. He started “term” there at the beginning of April and they quickly struck up a promising partnership – qualifying for the “International” within a week.  From the start though, Debbie has said that she thought the week at Peterborough would do him good!

As the Championships progressed, although Mary and Paris jumped good rounds and won rosettes in every class, I did not dare to dream that he might have come on enough to even compete in the two ultimate classes, the Summer Open and the Desert Orchid – although I think Mary may have done so!

I shall never forget watching, with my heart in my mouth, those two phenomenal rounds, and Mary’s ecstatic smile, which came before winning firstly, both classes and then, unbelievably both Championships and the Summer Supreme Working Hunter Pony Championship – when the dust had settled, staring at all the magnificent trophies, we have noticed that no pony or rider, has won both titles in the same year. Quite astonishing, especially for a pony in his first competitive year.

I have, of course to thank firstly the unique Edmondson family – the quite brilliant Mary (apart from these unique results with Paris, I don’t believe her incredible feat in the Gold Cup – two wins and two placings in the same year – will ever be repeated) Debbie and Patrick for their input, support and patience (with us as well as Paris) Huge thanks also to Alan and Harry, for their unerring support, faith and understanding. I would like also, to mention the course designed, the late Alan Oliver, for coming up with courses that really sorted the “men from the boys” without causing injury (as far as I know) to pony or rider.  He will be very sorely missed.

Finally, to Paris himself – we always have, and always will, adore you.  You started term as a talented, handsome, young chap, but graduated bravely, with the very highest honours, as a brilliant and unique Champion. The roller coaster has been worth every moment!