Show Hunter Brings Expertise to the Jumping Ring
Sophie Scott is one of our World Cup showjumpers carving her way to the top of her discipline. But how many people knew that she honed her craft in the Show Hunter ring? Sophie has a story to tell as we celebrate 40 years since Show Hunter was introduced in New Zealand.
“Fundamentals that stay with you your whole riding career”
Sophie Scott (Palmerston North)
Sophie Scott presents the winning ribbon to Aggie Shearer at the Show Hunter Series Finals 2026. Copyright Photo: KAMPIC / Kerry Marshall
Tell us about your first Pony
The first pony I competed in Show Hunter was Benrose Comet. I was pretty young at the time, so what I remember most is just how exciting those first shows felt and at the time it was a pretty big deal. I remember coming away from it with plenty to learn and practice before my next Show hunter show.
Where there any “eureka” moments?
That feeling of things coming together, when the hard work at home started to really pay off at the shows is what really fueled my passion. It made me want to keep improving and learning more each time I rode.
What has Show Hunter given you that you value the most, that still helps you every time you walk into a big ring?
Taught me patience and consistency, and how small adjustments make big a difference to your round. Taught me a great style of riding and all about doing the basics really well.
How important do you think that the grassroots NZ system is for developing riders for international sport?
Show Hunter ring is extremely important for developing riders. Many top riders start there because it builds the fundamentals which stay with you your whole riding career and teaches you to do the basics well. It teaches riders patience and consistency which again is something as a higher-level rider now is always something I’m looking for. And being in the Show Hunter ring you are always learning how to master it and get that perfect round.
Sophie Scott rides Normandy GHP, Cartown Kiwi Super Classic, Manfeild Park, Feilding, Saturday, December 20, 2025 Copyright Photo: KAMPIC / Kerry Marshall
For young Kiwi riders watching you today, what advice would you give about building a pathway from Show Hunter to World Cup level?
Work hard, be dedicated to your horse and building a partnership. Don’t look for the easy road, tough it out and know that success always comes to the people that work for it! Always look to learn! Surround yourself with the best team possible, the ones who support you and help you through everything and always take the team on the journey with you.