The Hawkesbury’s equestrian community was on full display as The Vines Pony Club hosted the PCA NSW Zone 26 Formal Gymkhana at its Oakville grounds, bringing together riders from across the region in a celebration of skill, sportsmanship and community spirit.
Established in 1972 on Old Stock Route Road, The Vines has grown into one of the region’s most active clubs, now boasting more than 100 members. Its strength and commitment were formally recognised in 2025 when it was named NSW Pony Club of the Year a reputation it lived up to once again with the successful running of this year’s Gymkhana.
Around 80 riders competed across the day, representing clubs from throughout the district including Woodlands Park, Glenorie, La Perouse, Londonderry, Arcadia, Cobbitty and Blacktown, alongside strong representation from the host club.
Backed by major sponsor Peaceland Horse Floats and a range of local supporters including the Show Horse Council, Fitzpatrick Family, Sydney Equestrian Supplies, Horseland Richmond and Saddleworld Dural, the event showcased both emerging talent and experienced riders across a wide range of classes.
Champions Lead the Way
The Champion and Reserve Champion rider awards highlighted the depth of talent within the Hawkesbury:
- Under 13 Years: Champion Harper Austin (Vines), Reserve Ella O’Hara (Vines)
- 13 to Under 17 Years: Champion Makynli Holt (Vines), Reserve Indy Warren (Vines)
- 17 to Under 80 Years: Champion Ava Dirou (Woodlands Park), Reserve Miranda Barnes (Vines)
Beginners Shine
The next generation of riders also impressed in the beginners’ categories:
- On Lead Beginners: Champion Halle Turner (Vines), Reserve Zara Razbusek (Vines)
- Off Lead Beginners: Champion Lyra Walsh (Vines), Reserve Zara Turner (Vines)
Age Champions Across the Board
Competition remained strong across all age groups:
- Under 9 Years: Cora Ware (Londonderry), Reserve Cooper March (Londonderry)
- 9 to Under 11 Years: Ella O’Hara (Vines), Reserve Ivy Austin (Vines)
- 11 to Under 13 Years: Harper Austin (Vines), Reserve Emerson Chandler (Vines)
- 13 to Under 15 Years: Ava Sinnott (Vines), Reserve Evie Papa (Vines)
- 15 to Under 17 Years: Sophia Coles-Bilotta (Vines), Reserve Josephine Capel (Londonderry)
- 17 to Under 25 Years: Trista Mitchell (Vines), Reserve Ava Dirou (Woodlands Park)
- 25 to Under 80 Years: Sarah Allen (Vines), Reserve Kylie Papa (Vines)
The strong showing from Vines Pony Club riders across multiple divisions reflected the depth of local talent and the club’s focus on developing riders at every level.
Community at the Core
Beyond the ribbons and results, the event reinforced the role pony clubs play in building confidence, discipline and lifelong skills in young people.
With images captured by Kaylen Jensen Photography, the day also highlighted the vibrant culture of equestrian sport in the Hawkesbury one built on volunteers, families and a shared passion for horses.
As The Vines Pony Club continues to grow from its roots in Oakville, events like the Zone 26 Gymkhana show why it remains not just a club, but a cornerstone of the region’s equestrian community.
