“Amy is always a regular at both the Borders and Edinburgh Academies. She visits the Borders Senior Academy and spends her time putting jumps up with me in the ring whilst looking, listening and taking everything in. She has recently produced a novice pony which she has taken her time with and they are now jumping steady double clears. She has also gone on to an Open pony – Madonna – and was jumping consistent double clears during the winter season. Amy always listens to instructions and she always has a smile from ear to ear and never a cross word is heard from her. She is always willing to do anything for you and is a pleasure to be around. Congratulations Amy!”
On-board a small round black and white miniature Shetland, Amy began her riding career at the tender age of two years old. Following in her older sister footsteps, Amy got the showjumping bug; jumping over anything she could get her hands on before joining British Showjumping in 2012. Amy is competing at the Royal Highland Show, with an invitation to the Mini Major. She also has high hopes for the rest of the competition season, aiming to gain qualifications for Horse of the Year Show in October and Olympia in December, as well as using her new found confidence to make a bid to be selected for the 128cm Scottish team.
Speaking with Amy’s mum Anne, she credits the growth in Amy’s confidence and the improvements in her techniques to Lead Coach, Andrew Hamilton:
“He is so good with all of the children as he takes the time to keep them engaged whilst building on their knowledge in all areas, even if they are not on a horse.”
Upon finding out she had become a NAF Shining Star, Amy summed up why she loves attending the academies:
“I enjoy the academy as I get to take my novice ponies along as well as my good one. I also enjoy helping Andrew in the other groups as its fun being part of all the groups and getting to know everyone else. Andrew also teaches us lots while we help like distances and strides and this has really helped me.”
Amy will kindly receive some NAF equine products to use too keep all her ponies sparkling inside and out. Melissa Newman, NAF Brand Manager, further commented:
“It is great to hear that Amy is using one of the most valuable skills you can have when it comes to improving within your sport – the ability to listen! Amy has shown that listening, being helpful and approaching things with a smile can really pay off and get you those double clears. Well done on achieving the Shining Star Amy.”
The NAF Shining Star Award was introduced when NAF became a British Showjumping Business Partner. The award is for members of a Junior Academy who have shown a great deal of commitment, progression and outstanding behaviour along with their riding ability and much more. Riders are nominated by their lead coach, and then judged and awarded by NAF to one person each month.
