About Us - History
Ian & Joy Ramsay known by many as Uncle Ian & Aunty Joy have been in the showing world for over 30 years – Over the years all three of their daughters showed successfully and even when they retired from the ring Aunty Joy was always able to adopt suitable riders for her team. They did attempt to retire to a quieter type of life but it was not to be with the next generation of family all showing an interest in the ponies - and here they are, only bigger this time round as showing has become far more 'business like' over the past 5 years.
Joy has always been an active buyer of Australian showing stock and has many contacts on the other side of the ditch. As there has always been a huge shortage of high quality riding attire especially for the smaller age group she often used to purchase riding gear for her riders whilst horsey shopping in Australia. Joy being the perfectionist that she is was always looking for that something special that would stand out from the rest and more importantly provide the high quality required for the show ring as it stands today.
Joy decided to start importing showing equipment from Australia still recognizing the need for high quality riding jackets, when her choices continued to be so limited she decided to investigate the option of having them tailor made using the best possible fabrics – Hong Kong was the destination so three years ago Aunty Joy and Uncle Ian packed up and headed for Hong Kong for a brain storming session with a group of tailors recommended by a friend. After many hours spent at the drawing board and some very very long days it was just a case of selecting fabrics before they had the finished product. Their decision was to use a lightweight wool cashmere that was cool to wear and always looked good and also one which would also suite the Australian market.
Little did they know that their trip three years ago would turn into a large busy business supplying some of the most successful riders both here in New Zealand and also Australia. They have just secured a sponsorship deal with Australia’s leading rider Briony Payne and they currently supply 60% of the New Zealand market.
Joy travels to Hong Kong twice a year to visit her tailor, look at new fabrics, place more orders & propose new styles – Joy does not do bulk style buying and is not afraid to push the boundaries regarding to change – she constantly has her finger on the pulse and attends both the Sydney & Brisbane Royals casting her eye over the ring 'Fashions' – her attire range includes both VIP & AJSA Riding Jackets, Showing Shirts, Vests, Stocks & Ties – she prides herself in the finished product and is only too happy to assist you with your co-ordination of your showing outfits.Apart from running Aunty Joys Showing Accessories, both Ian & Joy work full time and run a busy showing yard with the help of a full time groom and family members.
Ian's role as chief bag carrier on overseas trips, truck driver and general handyman is crucial to the establishment and their active support within the showing world with sponsorship & turnout seminars is appreciated by many. I myself rode for Aunty Joy & Uncle Ian back a while ago and competed successfully at Royals, HOTY & Nationals and now helping them in the Australian market. Once you are apart of the AJSA Show Team you are always part of the show team.
Shelley Williams
