This month is the final chance for Fell Pony Society members to complete the Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Challenge. Launched this year to “celebrate the life of our late Queen,” the riding challenge began on her birthday, April 21st, and concludes on October 31st.
The Challenge is open to all UK and international FPS members, individual or teams with the goal to complete 96 miles, one for every year of the late Queen’s life, with their Fell ponies. Riders and their ponies who are successful will receive a specially-designed ribbon. The miles can be accumulated by riding, driving, long reining or leading ponies. The FPS put on a similar challenge last year to mark its centenary.
The world’s most famous Fell pony is also taking part. Royal fans will recall the late Queen’s beloved Fell pony, Emma, who stood with quiet dignity on the Long Walk at Windsor Castle during Her Majesty’s funeral last year. Emma continues to make headlines with a recent appearance at a polo match and according to a spokesperson in Horse & Hound, “is currently participating in the Fell Pony Society’s Queen Elizabeth ll Memorial Challenge.”
There is a private Facebook group where participants are encouraged to post their riding progress as well as photos and videos.