June Story Contest

Flames and Cross Country
By: Show Horsey
Age: 11

"Here we go Jill. We worked hard for this and we need to win it," said her rider and owner, Jessica, Jess for short.
They were entered in a difficult show jumping course. Jess had memorized it, and she had showed it to her little white pony. They cantered a lap, and leaped the first fence with ease. The time started. Jill moved into a smooth but quick canter, positioning herself for the next fence. An oxer. Easy, thought Jess. Jill was awesome at oxers. She quickened, but Jess slowed her to a better pace. They jumped the oxer cleanly.

Suddenly, a plastic bag blew across the course. Jill got distracted by it, but kept on going. She jumped the next 3 jumps like they weren't even there. Everyone could see that that little stubborn white pony was an amazing jumper. Jill knew that. They headed for the last jump. A spread. Oh no, thought Jess. Jill does not like spreads. But to her surprise, Jill had a wonderful and clean round, with a fast time, taking first place to a Thoroughbred mare named Princess. Next up, cross country.

They were the last team to ride. Jill awaited the starting bell, which came when she was least expecting it. But she took off at a steady canter. They cleared the first few fences with ease, and headed into the forest. The first forest jump, a ditch. Easy. They headed up to the water after easily clearing the other jumps. With no hesitation, they were through the water. Smoke suddenly swarmed the horse and rider. Jill slowed her canter, and smelled the air. The flames came up from behind them. Forest fire!

Jill galloped to the next jumps, which were logs. Slowing to a canter before each jump, they were cleared. Jill galloped to the top of the hill, and Jess could see the finish line. Jill reared and neighed as loud as she could, and Jess shouted, "Forest fire!" The flames were 5 metres behind them. Jill galloped down the hill, and pranced in the spot when they were across finish line. About 50 firemen were trying to put out the flames. Did the succeed?

Find Out In Next Months Story Contest!!