Barastoc Junior Squad: Meet Annabel Manifold

"I have loved learning how to better my horse’s health, nutrition and wellbeing..."

Adele Severs

Published 18 May 2023

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Annabel Manifold. Image: PYT Photography.

Barastoc Junior Squad: Meet Annabel Manifold

In August 2016, Barastoc launched the Barastoc Junior Squad program to riding enthusiasts aged 13 – 18 who are passionate about riding.

The Barastoc Junior Squad aims to teach, inspire and guide young equine enthusiasts. The squad program assists young riders in gaining the experience needed to support a commercial sponsorship in adulthood, if it is desired or needed, as well as provide a solid understanding of feeding their horses. Each year Barastoc welcomes 20-30 new young riders to be part of the team.

Here, we catch up with South Australian eventer Annabel Manifold…

“Hey everyone, my name is Annabel Manifold and I am an eventer from South Australia. This is my horse On Face Value, or better known as Finnis. What I love about Finnis is his kind and honest personality and how willing his it to try everything I ask. He is always looking for the next jump with his ears pricked ready to go! We have been a combination for almost three years now and we have built a very strong relationship together.

“I feel very honoured to have the opportunity to be a part of the Barastoc Junior Squad. I have loved learning how to better my horse’s health, nutrition and wellbeing throughout monthly room chats with equine professionals all around the world and getting to meet likeminded riders across Australia.

“My goals for this year are to consolidate Finnis at 1* eventing and continue his training, whilst finding a new young horse and begin training them up to become my next eventer.

“My equestrian idol would be Shane Rose. I think he is an incredible athlete and a true professional and I aspire to be like him one day.

“My best advice for other riders to always have an open mind. I believe you can always learn something from everyone, you just need to put yourself out there and ask questions.”