Thomas was nominated for the award by Jayne Smart, lead coach for the Bristol & Somerset Academy. Mandy said the following about her nominee:
“Thomas is a joy to teach! He always has a cheeky grin but is serious about improving the way he rides and how his ponies go. He has a great rapport with his ponies and comes regularly to training along with his two younger sisters. He is very open to ideas, rides with a great natural flair and is the sort of talent I think we should nurture through the academies. He has the ability to progress through the levels and with the continued support of his family he can go far in the sport. Congratulations Thomas!”
Beginning his riding career on board his first pony, Wally, at the age of three, Thomas went on to become a keen member of the Pony Club, trying everything from eventing to pony racing but it was showjumping that really caught his attention as, in Thomas’s words, “it is the most fun equestrian discipline!” Thomas joined British showjumping in 2015 and began by competing in Pony British Novice and Stepping Stones classes. Competing at the Blue Chip Winter Championships earlier this year, Thomas was very proud to ride away with 10th place in the Animo Novice Championship and has hope of going to Scope and the Welsh Home Pony Show as well as being selected for the Academy teams at the County Shows.
Being part of the Bristol & Somerset Academy has allowed Thomas to grow in confidence. He is always looking forward to each and every training session with lead coach, Jayne Smart as she provides a supportive and encouraging environment, where a good dose of banter can often be heard.
Upon finding out he had become a NAF Shining Star, an amazed Thomas said:
“Wow – really? Are you joking? WOW!! I am really pleased!! The Academy has been a game changer for me – access to a fantastic coach as well as fun and inspiring friends to train with. I can’t wait for our Academy Camp in the summer. The Academy has given me the confidence to aim to jump some of the Scope qualifiers this summer.”
Thomas will kindly receive some NAF equine products to use alongside the supplements that he currently uses, which include; NAF Minty Treats and Love the SKIN he’s in Skin Wash, frequently used on his mud-loving but sensitive cremello pony, Alpachineo.
Melissa Newman, NAF Brand Manager, further commented:
“It is great to hear that Thomas takes his training seriously yet always has a smile on his face! Natural riders with flair are a great asset to the sport and it is excellent to see that his talent is being recognised and nurtured at his academy and by his family. Well done Thomas.”
