Sophie Pearn and Zara O'Donnell when they represented Victoria in the National Interschool Equestrian Championships.
Two young local equestrians have recently returned from an impressive showing at the National Inter-school Equestrian Championships.
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St Michael’s students Zara O’Donnell and Sophie Pearn travelled with their parents and horses to the prestigious competition in Tamworth in September.
The championships are the largest equestrian grassroots program delivered nationally in Australia and cover events including dressage, showjumping, eventing and show horse.
Zara and Sophie represented Team Victoria at the event, having qualified earlier this year at the Victorian Interschools event, where they rode as representatives from St Michael's School.
“It was an amazing atmosphere,” Zara said.
“The opening ceremony was special, we had lots of fun.”
Sophie was particularly happy with her ride on her pony Brock, finishing 6th in the highly competitive ridden event.
Her pony Zaza finished second in lead to rank 7th overall.
Sophie has worked with Brock and Zaza over several years.
Zara competed in the primary 80cm combined training (dressage and show jumping).
While disappointed with her performance in dressage due to an unsettled horse, Zara and Kahtia jumped clear in the show jump to finish 12th overall.
The pair have been riding together for about a year, with Zara previously competing in the 65cm events on her pony Sunny.
“It was a great experience for us both, and to be competing with my best friend was special too,” Sophie said.
“Our parents have supported us so much, and we owe them a big thank you."
The results represent countless hours of training on their horses, Brock, Zaza and Kahtia.
St Michael’s Year 6 teacher Jess Aitken said she was not surprised by the success the girls had in Tamworth.
“Zara and Sophie are two of the most committed and focused young people I’ve encountered,” she said.
“To have two of our students competing at a national level in a sport they are both so dedicated to is amazing - we’re so proud of the girls.”
Zara O'Donnell rides Kahtia during the Equestrian National Qualifiers.
Sophie Pearn atop Zaza at the Victorian school’s competition.
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