I got my first horse when I was 11 years old. His name is 'Fair Chance Playboy' a registered quarter Welsh pony. He was five years old and a very sprightly pony with a very loving nature. Born bay with zebra type stripes on his leg, he was a steel grey with black legs, mane and tail when he came to live with me. I was slightly scared of riding him as he was indeed lively, but I could spend hours grooming him as he was very gentle. I taught him a trick which he still does today - but only for me - how is that for loyalty?
I lived near Paremoremo, Albany and used to ride to Rosedale Pony Club. I used to ride to all sorts of shows and One Day Events - he just loved jumping and really enjoyed the cross country courses and show jumping events. In fact he actually won Champion Hack Hunter when I was an older teenager and had to enter the 'adult' events. How is that for a pony on 13.2 hh?!
I used to record all the events and outings I did with him in a form of diary, which sadly got lost in my twenties, but fortunately the memories of our times together are still there.
I also took part in four Mercer Cup events - the last one, I fell off and knocked myself out, just the week before, but nothing was going to stop me going to the event, concussion or not!
One of the really special things for me in visiting New Zealand is being able to go and see Playboy whom my friend Rosemary now has the sole care of. She has been wonderful in offering him his final retirement home and for that I am eternally grateful.
He is no longer a Steel Grey, but rather white, showing his age, but then at the grand age of 38, he is doing very well.
I leave you with some photos of a truly wonderful horse, the best friend that any child could have wanted and one that I miss so much.
My Dad saying hello to Playboy.
My friend Rosemary, Dad & Playboy.
Thank you Rosemary for being such a wonderful person and looking after Playboy so well.
