Riding high - did you compete in gymkhanas as a youngster?
A gymkhana at Cretingham, near Woodbridge, in April 1983 - Credit: Archant
Did you belong to a pony club as a youngster, and compete in gymkhanas around Suffolk?
A gymkhana at Tollgate Riding Stables, Felixstowe, in October 1979 - Credit: Archant
Or did you go along to watch the riders battling it out?
Young competitors at Barking Gymkhana in October 1968 - Credit: Archant
Our latest nostalgic picture gallery looks back to equestrian events around the county in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s.
Ringshall gymkhana in April 1973. - Credit: Archant
One of the most unusual photos shows riders wearing fancy dress at Creeting St Mary Show and Gymkhana in August 1979.
Fancy dress outfits at Creeting St Mary Show and Gymkhana in August 1979 - Credit: Archant
And there are also pictures of proud winners showing off their rosettes and trophies after a successful ride.
Earl Soham Fete and Gymkhana in August 1970 - Credit: Archant
The word "gymkhana" originally referred to displays of athletics and equestrian events in 19th-century India.
Events where horse and pony riders showed their skills went on to become very popular in the UK, and many were held around East Anglia over the years.
Most Read
- 1 Jailed in Suffolk: The criminals put behind bars this week
- 2 Winter art trail to bring cheer to the streets of Stowmarket
- 3 5 roadworks to plan your journeys around in Suffolk this week
- 4 Burglar jailed for break-in at Stowmarket dental practice
- 5 Could you offer these rescue animals a forever home?
- 6 Suffolk set to be battered by strong winds as weather warning issued
- 7 Omicron variant will come to Suffolk - county prepares to tackle it
- 8 Christmas lighting display the 'spirit' of Stowmarket mum
- 9 Flood alert issued for Suffolk and north Essex coast
- 10 Thousands vaccinated in a day in huge effort against Covid
To order copies of photos, visit our website or call Diane Townsend on 01603 772449.
Eastern Harriers' gymkhana at the Suffolk Showground, Ipswich, in August 1964 - Credit: Archant
