Molly has been training with me since she was 8 years old. Her journey from learning to jump on dear Romeo, the pony, to competing with much success at National Interschools level on several horses has taken a few directions. She turned her hand at Showing on little Dinky, the super Galloway, Christian and the evergreen Hack Mo (aka Boyfriend). Molly represented her Pony Club at Sydney Royal Easter Show to win her rider class as an eleven year old. Not an easy feat with 32 competitors. While I do not compete in Showing and therefore could not help her with ringcraft, Molly continued to have Dressage lessons and the occasional jump with me here at Wonga. The success she experienced in Showing is a direct result of consistent, regular Dressage lessons. It truly is the basis of all disciplines.
Molly decided to explore her jumping ambitions and is now competing on the beautiful Ollie. Her ability to ride in such a calm and positive manner plus her receptive attitude to training is reaping rewards. Already, in a relatively short period of time, she is now competing at One Day Eventing at E95. Three competitions for three placings in the top five. Coming second by a whisker at Sydney 3DE in a big Juniors class has been a highlight.
Her success is wonderful but what pleases me most are two competitions in particular.
The first is when at an ODE Ollie tripped in the warm up arena and pulled up lame for a few strides. Without hesitation she sought veterinarian advice and although cleared to run she thought to err on the side of caution. She put her horse’s well being ahead of her desire to win. In fact, on closer inspection by another vet, it proved to be a farrier issue and could have meant an injury to Ollie.
The second is her 5th placing at NSW State Interschools in July 2022. Molly unfortunately picked up a bug and spent most of the competition vomiting and in bed, getting up only to compete in each phase. What a girl! Drive and determination will get her a long way in this sport.
Of course all of this is not possible without parental support. Not only have Molly’s parents bought suitable and safe horses at the correct time but they have invested in her education by having regular lessons. They did not fall into the ill-conceived trap of “touch up” lessons before a competition. Competition should be seen as a test of your training rather than training for a competition. To see Molly develop into a talented and caring equestrian has been very rewarding indeed.