HEAVY rain failed to dampen the enthusiasm of the crowds watching the Whipman rideout last Saturday.

Well-wishers clamoured to get a good view and cheered on the 78 riders as they crossed the ford in the centre of West Linton.

The party was led by the newly-installed Whipman Ryan Stewart and the West Linton & District Pipe Band.

Ryan completed the course without mishap while his Lass Rebecca Murison watched the proceedings from the safety of a car as she had been grounded after breaking her wrist when falling from a horse in training.

It was encouraging to see so many locals turn out to see the riders set off and gratifying that so many riders had travelled considerable distances to take part. All riders enjoyed a brisk ride over some lovely country and a big thank you must go to the various landowners who allow access to their land.

The ride stopped for lunch at Garvald before setting off for the return trip via the race field.

The race for the Principals was won by Billy Spence from Jedburgh while the open event went to Nathan Mills from Selkirk. The Lethbridge Cup for the first rider in the open race on a hired horse was won by Robert Muir from Peebles. The Ian Morrison Memorial Flask was won by Paul Scott from Biggar.

The day ended as it started in a shower of rain but many participants promised to return next year and do it all again!

The Presenting Lady, Sheila Black, enjoyed the spectacle and said: “It was fantastic to watch as usual and I think everything went reasonably smoothly.

“It did rain for some of the time but I still think everybody enjoyed the occasion immensely.” Whipman Rideout results - Waterston Trophy for the Sashes Race: Billy Spence from Jedburgh; Bank of Scotland Trophy for the Open Race: Nathan Mills from Selkirk; Lethbridge Cup for 1st Rider on Hired Horse: Robert Muir from Peebles; Ian Morrison Memorial Flask: Paul Scott from Biggar.