Gemma jumps from pony club

•   Gemma James at one with her mount GE Mayfield.

By Tony Scott,
July 07, 2021

Coming from a family with an abiding interest in horses, there was little doubt that Gemma James would follow the family interest and she has been riding horses since she could walk. 

She joined North Eastern Pony Club as a seven-year old riding her pony Cardi and  starting her journey to become one of the club's most successful and competitive riders. 

Many will remember her horse Boswell and in recent years, Bliss and GE Mayfield, who have served her well. 

She has been tutored privately for many years by local coach Julie Targett. 

Gemma has competed at Pony Club State Trials every year from 2015-2021. 

This year, her best competition result was at State Trials competing in dressage, cross country, and showjumping, winning the Grade 3 Seniors section on her reliable bay GE Mayfield. 

Over the years she has entered in most pony club disciplines; mounted games, dressage, jumping, ODE’s, and gymkhanas, regularly placing well at club, zone and state level. 

Gemma turns 25 this year and will no longer be a club member, having outgrown the age limit of the equine-focused youth movement, but takes with her a million memories. 

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my pony club years as it didn’t only make me a better horse person, but also a better person. I’m grateful for all the opportunities.” 

Gemma plans to go on to compete in eventing and showjumping through other avenues. 

"Gemma has been an outstanding club representative and we wish her every success as she goes on with her riding,” club president Danielle Carins said.