Sign In / Register
Young riders from Mahurangi College enjoyed remarkable success at the North Island Secondary Schools Equestrian Championships held over four days in Taupō earlier this month.
The event was held in chilly but sunny conditions at the National Equestrian Centre.
Competing against more than 80 teams from across the North Island, the Mahurangi riders achieved standout performances in several events, with the Year 7 and 8 team securing the top overall spot in their division.
A spokesperson for the team said the riders, comprising Alex Gray, Alice Greenwood, Ashley Russell, Eva Morrison, Abi Cooper, and Zallie Rawlings, competed against riders from both their own and higher age groups, displaying impressive skills and confidence.
The championships, which feature a wide range of disciplines including competitive trail riding, dressage, jumping, arena eventing and show hunter, saw fierce competition with some classes hosting more than 60 riders.
Despite this, Mahurangi’s riders demonstrated outstanding skill and determination throughout the event.
“The riders don’t practise as a team and are coached individually through pony clubs at Warkworth,
Matakana and Hakaru so for them to come together under the school banner is unique,” the spokesperson said.
Special recognition went to Ashley Russell, who finished second overall as the best-performing rider in her division, and Zallie Rawlings, who came 10th overall in her age group.
Team manager Charlotte Walker and coach Jo Bullock were thanked for their support during the event.
“A special thanks also to all the parents who took time out of their week to sleep in floats and brave the cold Taupo temperatures.”
The competition was equally intense for the Year 9 to 13 team, with individual riders achieving personal success in their respective events.
With such a strong performance, the Mahurangi College equestrian team has set the bar high for future events, continuing to build on their reputation for excellence in school equestrian sport.
“The team’s achievements in Taupō demonstrate not only their skill but also the determination and sportsmanship that will carry them far in future competitions.”
