Show organisers 'very, very happy'

Sophie Muir (12), of Palmerston, has a close call as her horse, Windward Legacy, hits the rail...
Sophie Muir (12), of Palmerston, has a close call as her horse, Windward Legacy, hits the rail during a high jump event. Photo by Peter McIntosh.
The organisers of the Strath Taieri A&P Show put their feet up yesterday happy in the knowledge their event had been one of the best in years.

The Middlemarch show on Saturday attracted about 2000 people, one of the best crowds in years, show committee president Lynore Templeton said.

''We're very, very happy. We've achieved well above expectations.''

• Slideshow: Strath Taieri A and P Show

A variety of factors contributed to its success, including changes to the horse section which attracted more participants, the Best of British Car Rally taking part and more advertising.

''You've got to think outside the square - think of events that will attract people.''

Sheep entries were also up and there was a full produce shed, she said.

''We've not had a show like this in years. You know it's been a good one when the food trade people tell you you've had a good day.''

The weather also played a part, staying fine although cool; it ''didn't seem to deter anyone''.

Entertainment also played a big part, with special events such as the spouse-carrying competition, lawnmower and musterers' races drawing the crowds.

''It was a very entertaining afternoon watching all the crazy stunts of the entrants.''

The inaugural spouse-carrying competition attracted 11 entrants and was ''hugely entertaining, very funny'', she said.

''They had to go over a jump and go through a swimming pool. Several people bit the dust.''

Having the car rally join the show was a ''win, win'' for both events, she said. The community turned out in force to support the event.

-rebecca.fox@odt.co.nz

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