Local horse trainer Russell Higgins of Brumby Farms judged alongside Palmerston North's Andrew Smith. It was the first introduction for Higgins to this sport, however Smith has been a regular judge for five years.
A miserable day greeted riders on Sunday. The grey clouds regularly teased a brighter day, however by midday the rain had set in.
The riders who competed in Saturday's non-points-approved competition huddled under makeshift shelters to watch the action.
The Youth class riders went first and was won by Bay of Plenty's Maia-Rose Bennett on her mare Flyby.
Guest and her Arab horse were entered in the rookie class of 16 riders. The pair were accompanied on the weekend by team-mate and local rider Brittany Van Dijk and her Kaimanawa mare, Kaimanawa Queen of Hearts TWS.
Cowboy Challenge order is determined by drawing names out of the hat and Guest and Van Dijk were to ride one after the other, which put extra pressure on Guest's nervous mount, who was reluctant to leave his stable mate behind.
"He's a kind, super little horse," said Guest. "But he gets very dependent on his friends."
On passing the start flags, Arahi became less distracted.
"He started really listening to me and by the time we hit the 10th obstacle we were flying."
The standard of horsemanship at this event was high. Riders had come from all over the North Island and Guest was ecstatic to get awarded the blue ribbon behind Rotoma's Daph Ngamotu and her horse Indy.
The Intermediate Class was won by Drury's Kushla Larsen and her well-seasoned mount Sailor, taking the top placing from Tauranga's Annette Wakefield and Nienke.
The rain worsened and by the time Matamata rider Kiri Rhodes hit the course in the open division, it had turned to mud and slush.
However, this was not enough to deter Kiri and her horse Navajo Dyanae from snatching the red ribbon from Kawerau's Jaimee Pryor and Whero.
The next challenge for these riders is at Maihiihi and will include introductory rings for young and old, as well as points-approved classes for more experienced combinations.
A practice ring is also available for riders to have a go before they enter the ring and experienced riders are on hand to offer support and guidance.
A third event will be held at a local property in Parawera in December, following a similar format.
¦For more information on Cowboy Challenge events check Cowboy Challenge Waikato on Facebook or go to their website — www.sporty.co.nz/cowboychallengewaikato
