‘Come & Try’ Day at Chinchilla

The Chinchilla Polocrosse members had a program for the day worked out, the TV and DVD player on a table under a shade shelter,
cakes and sandwiches made for smoko and the sausages and bread all ready for lunch.
So they were most relieved when 15 or so young riders from the Pony Clubs in the local area arrived - they now had the raw material to work on!

After settling all the ponies into stalls and introductions all round, they began with a run through of the basic rules of polocrosse
and demonstrations of racquet and ball skills and techniques.

The excited pony clubbers then gleefully collected a loaned racquet and “had a go”. After learning how to pick up and catch a ball,
using the back board to practice throws and catches, they all lined up in teams for a practice game on foot.

Next it was smoko and a seat in the shade to watch the PoloX Squad DVD followed by a sample of the Umpiring and Horsemanship DVD’s.

All then saddled up horses and ponies and divided into groups according to age and size (some really were tiny!).
The next issue was to get the horses used to the racquets – to aid this they were shown some simple drills.
After much hilarity the young Pony Club riders slowly developed the idea of using a racquet and ball while riding.

After lunch it was time for a real game of polocrosse – how they loved this! There was much excitement when a goal was finally thrown!
There is no doubt - all horse riders have a competitive side to them.

Small chests puffed out at the sight of the local newspaper photographer and reporter!
He had been invited to come along and do an article for the Chinchilla News!

The Chinchilla Club members saddled up during the day to give a demonstration game for the newcomers; this also doubled as a practice.

Polocrosse and Pony Club members alike all agreed the ‘Come & Try Day’ was a huge success.

And the media came to visit!	Having a throw around	Keep your eye on the ball
Can you catch this one?	Yes - you can!	It's a long way down....