Race on to find quirkiest rider

The race has started to find New Zealand’s ‘‘quirkiest’’ horseriding kid - someone who can pull off some cool and clever moves on a pony or horse.

A leading Australian equestrian brand, Hampton and Harlow Equestrian, is in the country to scout some of the most talented young horse riders as part of its Hampton Valley Hits New Zealand Kiwi Kids Casting competition.

Competition entrants must submit a photograph or video before April 7 of themselves in action on a pony or horse.

The most outstanding entrant will win $500 worth of Hampton and Harlow Equestrian clothing and become the inspiration for a new character in the equestrian brand’s comic book.

Hampton and Harlow Equestrian CEO Karen Bazzan has been visiting pony clubs throughout the country and said she’d noticed Kiwi kids were enthusiastic about riding, whether they do it just for fun or are competitive riders.

‘‘We’re inviting Kiwi kids to show us their horse-riding talents and we are excited to see their personality, style and of course any unusual or cute tricks they can perform,’’ she said.

’’From what we’ve seen so far young Kiwis have a real passion for equestrian so we don’t think we will have difficulty finding a muse to base our comic strip character on.’’

The Hampton Valley comic strip follows quirky Australian riders Harriet and Emily and their pony Sheldon, and the first stop of their world tour is New Zealand where they will meet a Kiwi character based on the competition winner.

Bazzan, an award-winning Australian designer and businesswoman, started Hampton & Harlow Equestrian 12 months ago after noticing her four children felt uncomfortable in their riding gear.

‘‘It was challenging to find clothing that was affordable, practical, durable, stain resistant, stylish and comfortable for my kids for our weekend riding excursions,’’ she said.

She took the reins and developed a clothing brand using advanced fabric technology with children’s comfort in mind.

The range is already picking up pace in Canterbury where the country’s first stockist resides.

To enter send a photo and/or video with your contact details to admin@hhequestrian.com.au.