Equestrians ride at national level

‘‘Both girls have had some challenging moments during the season and have shown great resilience to overcome the setbacks.’’ Kay Hogan

Two St Peter’s Cambridge equestrians have been named in a national show jumping squad.

Drew Carson and Nicola Hammond were selected for the talent ID squad, which is for riders 25 years and under.

This means they are capable of being selected for Young Rider Oceania teams, consistently winning Young Rider classes at premier shows, and recording clear rounds in Grand prix and premier league classes.

Equestrian coach Kay Hogan said she was thrilled that the girls were in the squad.

‘‘Both girls have had some challenging moments during the season and have shown great resilience to overcome the setbacks.

‘‘They’ve maintained their focus and have achieved their goals,’’ she said.

‘‘St Peter’s have acknowledged their successes by naming Drew on the Stable of Stars Squad (for Alumni) and Nicola on the Rising Stars Squad students).

‘‘It’s great that their efforts and talent have been recognised outside the school.’’

The new programme includes funding on a sliding scale for squad riders to attend three train- (for current ing camps throughout the season, and a special fully funded clinic from world-class international coach Rob Ehrens.

There would also be a strong focus on individual performance plans for squad riders, which would be completed at the North Island and South Island camps in September, as well as presentations and seminars on topics such as sports psychology.

The new programme aims to assist New Zealand riders to progress through to higher levels of competition.