Lucy Oliver & Mr Mika Choo with Judge Joan Couper and President of ESNZ Sue Hobson – Copyright Photo: KAMPIC / Kerry Marshall
Bay of Plenty and Waikato Show Hunter Groups 12 & Under Equitation Series
It was with a mix of emotions that Lucy Oliver accepted the Bay of Plenty and Waikato Show Hunter Groups 12 & Under Equitation Series crown.
The 12-year-old from Peka Peka was extremely proud of her achievement with her much-loved pony Mr Mika Choo, but sad it marked the end of their partnership.
“It is so exciting, but I am too tall for him so this is our last show together,” she said. “It is so special to go out on a high like this.”
She’s had 15-year-old Mr Mika Choo for two years and this is her first-ever series win. “We didn’t target the series but it just happened. I am really proud.”
Lucy is trained by mum Marcia, a former eventer. “I’m a bit lucky to have her to train me.”
The combination have been very competitive winning seven of the series classes.
“I love that show hunter has taught me how to ride nicely.”
And she’ll be taking all that knowledge into the next phase of her equestrian journey in the showjumping arena.
Bay of Plenty and Waikato Show Hunter Groups 12 & Under Equitation Series: Lucy Oliver (Peka Peka) 65 points 1, Pippa Dudding-Thomas (Pukekawa) 64 2, Summer Roy (Gore) 57 3, Aggie Shearer (Feilding) 50 4, Ellie McDonald (Auckland) 41 5, Georgie Coop (Gisborne) 40 6.
Bay of Plenty and Waikato Show Hunter Groups 12 & Under Equitation Series Grand Final: Lucy Oliver (Peka Peka) Mr Mika Choo 1, Kyra Purcell (Te Puke) Onetai Black Diamond 2, Pippa Dudding-Thomas (Pukekawa) Hollybank Wildwind 3, Kensi McCarty (Hastings) Pied Piper Time Will Tell 4, Zara Peacock (Waipukurau) Ty Gwyn Austin Powers 5.
For full results, head to www.evoevents.co.nz
Diana Dobson – 16 April 2023