Over the past weekend, the TMC Equestrian Team went to Emmaus College to compete in one of their first Equestrian Events of the year. Following the competition, we are delighted with how the TMC equestrian team performed and how they shone through in the results. Overall, the team is grateful that they had the opportunity to be a part of this wonderful event.
In the competition, Amelia Waller received 1st overall in the Intermediate Open Hacking class, after getting 1st in the Rider Class, 1st in the Show Horse Class, and 2nd in the Led in Hand Class. Ava Burnes received 7th overall in the Intermediate Hacking class, after getting 7th in the Rider Class and 3rd in the Led in Hand Class. Our Combined Training team in the 60cm, Grace Fullerton came 5th, 80cm, Sienna White 3rd, 95cm, Summer Jacobs 7th, Ashlee Lowe 4th & Talia Criss 2nd.
The equestrian team is comprised of many talented riders and our fabulous coordinator, Mrs Criss. We interviewed various members of the team including Caitlin Ward, year 12, Emily Seagrave, year 8, Summer Jacobs, year 9 and Ashlee Lowe, year 8. Each team member has been riding and pursuing their love of horses for many years. Caitlin and Summer have been riding since they were 5 years old and Emily since she was 10. Summer stated that her favourite part of riding is the chance to “ Just get away from everything for a little bit when you are on a horse, you don’t have to think much.” Caitlin shared with us why she started horse riding and elaborated on her love for the beautiful creatures, she specified that the reason she began riding was “Because I was addicted to horses, every time I drove past a paddock I would shout HORSE and my parents finally caved in and let me ride.”
We asked the riders what they are most excited about for the future as part of the TMC Equestrian Team. Ashlee responded in saying “[She is excited for] just competing with Tamborine Mountain College and training with teammates''. Caitlin expressed that she is anticipating how far the TMC Equestrian Team will go when she has finished her last year of school, and is excited to watch the way they continue to grow together. Lastly, Emily added that she is very excited to be part of the team, she is so grateful for the amazing opportunity presented.
Ms Criss, the patient and supportive teacher that has been in charge of the Equestrian Team for three years, spoke to us about the thrill that comes with watching her team grow and compete together. When asked what makes her proud, she responded that it is “When they help each other out especially or the more experienced riders when they support someone having a difficulty with a horse and they offer their experiences.” When asked what TMC Equestrian has planned for the future, Ms Criss expressed that coaching lessons, full inter school teams for all disciplines, show jumping, eventing dressage, show horses and building up the Primary Team are just a few of the goals that our team hopes to achieve. In addition to the events and opportunities presented to the Equestrian Team, Ms Criss believes some of the best things students get out of being a part of the team are “Training a horse and actually riding, as well as social aspects”.
There are many events and competitions to look forward to this year. One of which happens to take place this weekend on the 5th to the 7th of March at Warwick. At this competition, the eventing team will be partaking in show horse, combined training and showjumping. This is a very popular, well-respected and prestigious event. We are positive our TMC team will do us proud this weekend. Events such as these are not only a perfect opportunity to ride a horse and to compete with the chance to win cash prizes, but also to see how each and every individual involved has improved their skills over countless hours of dedication and practice.
We have no doubt that they will continue to work and thrive through the year, in preparation for every upcoming event. We wish them luck for this weekend at Warwick and anticipate the fantastic results that will come from our students’ hard work. None of this could have been possible without the guidance, dedication and support that Ms Criss has consistently provided to each equestrian student. In closing, we are eager for what is to come and can’t wait to see how this year plays out for the TMC Equestrian Team.
By Lily Parker and Hannah Clements Year 9