Anna Kincheff can’t stop smiling. The 22-year-old showjumper from Rotorua in just her first season of show hunter has won the Show Hunter of the Year title.

“It is just so amazing,” she said. “A friend suggested I should have a crack at show hunter just this season.”

Her biggest praise though is saved for Red Socks, her 12-year-old mare. “We have such a good partnership, she is just awesome. In a way it is good I went in with no expectations, so just went out and rode how we normally do.”

Their opening round was “just perfect” which meant nerves coming back in first. “I was very nervous but as soon as we did our opening canter circle I knew we would be ok.”

Anna has just finished her Bachelor of Business Studies and had been taking some time out to prepare for HOY.

The combination have been competing with success in the Amateur Rider showjumping series and have plenty of fun. This HOY they also got to jump in the Amateur Rider of the Year class in the premier arena which was a real buzz.

“She’s not your typical mare,” she said of the 15.2hh horse. “She’s very sweet and kind and likes to please. She loves attention.”

Anna is trained by showjumper Danielle Maurer. “We’ll definitely be popping some champagne tonight!”

 

Results –

Prydes Easifeed Horse Show Hunter of the Year: Anna Kincheff (Rotorua) Red Socks 1, Laura Van Velthooven (Feilding) Sirocco Daisy 2, Kristine Leonard (Kamo) Annie’s Lane 3, Sally Newall (Napier) Dark Secret 4, Sarah Twentyman (Warkworth) Moulin Rouge 5, Emily Twort (Henderson) Cameo KSNZ 6.

 

Diana Dobson, 15th March 2019