Sally Ward rides Paradox to win the ESNZ Show Hunter Junior High Points, Horse of the Year 2018, Hawke’s Bay A&P Showgrounds, Hastings, Wednesday, March 14, 2018. Credit: KAMPIC / Sarah Lord
By Diana Dobson
Sally Ward can finally tick off a show hunter series win with her victory in the Gyro Plastics Junior High Points aboard Paradox.
The 18-year-old from Waipukurau has been consistently in the top three in recent years but the series crown was always the goal.
“I have been working towards it so to get there is really special,” says Ward.
She’s had Oscar – as he is known by most – for four years and in that time they’ve formed a solid partnership.
“We came to show hunter to improve our foundation skills.”
She credits her good results to her trainers Monica Oakley, Mary Peterson, Chrissie Beatson and Gail Goodwin.
“I enjoy having a nicely schooled horse and be able to execute a clean, tidy round that is correct. Show hunter is a skill everyone should have.”
This is her last season chasing series points as she is in her first year of a Bachelor of Business at Massey University but she and Oscar will still make the odd show hunter outing.
“It is so rewarding to win, especially for mum (Debbie) who is very invested in the sport.”
Twelve-year-old Oscar adores both of the women and is very much a part of the family.
“I would never part with him. He calls out to us when he sees us from a mile away. While he is a bit quirky on the ground but he is like sitting in an armchair.”
Ward and Paradox were also second in the NRM Open High Points, just two points behind winner Laura Van Velthooven and Sirocco Daisy.
Results
GYRO Plastics Junior High Points Series: Sally Ward, Paradox 68 points 1, Sophie Scott, Benrose Rockstar 56 2, Georgia Allison, Samari Lady 49 3, Antonio Matangi, Shoeshine Polish 39 4.