Emily McMaster and Onetai Cover Girl being presented The Brave Pants Company Cat C High Points Series for 2023-2024 by sponsor, Rose Cruden.  Photo by Michelle Clarke.

 

  • Big on Writing Pony Equitation Series

  • The Brave Pants Company Cat C High Points Series

 

Emily McMaster is no stranger to success in the show hunter arenas but it’s still special to nab two series in her last year on ponies.

She and Onetai Cover Girl won the Big on Writing Pony Equitation Series and the Brave Pants Company Cat C High Points series – both of which she also won last season.

“It was very close,” she says. “It came down to the class at the Land Rover Horse of the Year to decide the winners but we have had a good season and been super consistent.”

Emily finished five points clear of runners up in the Cat C high points, but only won the pony equitation on countback after tying on equal points with Charli Sabine.

“It was all very nerve wracking,” said 17-year-old Emily, who is based in Greytown.

“I tell myself it is just another round but really wanted to do well in our last year on ponies. Our week at HOY was our best ever.”

Emily and “Tully” receiving the Big On Writing Pony Equitation Series 2023-2024 from Show Hunter Executive Chair, Tracey Lammas.  Photo by Michelle Clarke.

 

The duo have dabbled in all disciplines but show hunter is their forte. “She is a real star,” she says of the 18-year-old mare who has now been sold to an amazing home. “We have both really enjoyed our time in the show hunter ring. I enjoy riding to perfection and it is nice being there with friends.”

While they have previously chased the series, Emily says things were a lot more relaxed this season, especially given she was sidelined for six weeks after falling off someone else’s horse.

“It feels so amazing to go out on such a high but I am sad to sell such a special pony who I have had for three years and introduced me to show hunter.”

She thanked series sponsors Big on Writing and the Brave Pants Company for their continued support, as well as her family – especially her mum Helen – for all their support.

 

For full results, head to –

https://www.evoevents.co.nz/resultClass/2135885779/2146938850/-1

https://www.evoevents.co.nz/resultClass/2135885779/2146938843/-1

Diana Dobson – 21 March 2024