In September of 2022 my horse, Woody, and I made the adventure interstate from Melbourne to Sydney to compete in the Australian Interschool Equestrian Championships. Considering it was my first-time competing interstate for equestrian, I was tremendously nervous. I was 12 and Woody was 21.
The journey seemed to take forever as we took our time stopping for a walk every two hours. It needed to be a gentle trip for Woody yet I was eager to arrive and beginning preparing. Despite my immense nerves, as soon as I placed my eyes on the admirable entrance of SIEC, the whirlwind in my stomach calmed down, and I felt at home with my big, friendly giant. The chaos of the week began immediately, with rushes to find stables, uniform, equipment, gear, yet it seemed to all fall into place. As the opening ceremony commenced, I felt a rush of adrenaline as the cheers of the crowd met my ear, and I was ready to begin.
Dressage was held on the last few days of the event, meaning I could enjoy watching the other disciplines as well as taking Woody on many walks and rides. As the day before my event came, I said one last goodbye to Woody and walked away knowing I was ready and so was he. The morning of my event was certainly busy, with lost gloves, rain, crowds, and I was quite overwhelmed with the environment. However, once I got on and, in the warmup, the loud disarray of the event that I had heard seemed to be blocked out. Our first test was not particularly wonderful, considering how wet and sloppy the outdoor arenas were. But we redeemed ourselves in the second test, producing a wonderful ride for a placing at the national event! I was so thrilled for both him and me, and it is an experience I will remember for a lifetime.
By Claudia Grant
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