Kirsten Worker only had a handful of starts in the Dunstan Horsefeeds Amateur Rider this season, but winning seven of them, including the North Island Championships, and the Series Final saw her jump into the top spot on the leaderboard.
Kirsten Worker and Lilah. Copyright Photo: Libby Law Photography
Heading into the Series Final, Nigel Horton had a good lead, and with his absence from the final rounds, Kirsten was in touching distance of the title, but she needed at least a second place to steal the win from Nigel. The task was not an easy one, with five combinations going head to head in the jump off. However, Kirsten kept her cool and rode Lilah around the shortened course with the speediest time, and zero penalties, to win both the class and the series in fine style.
“I wasn’t so nervous going in to the final, I just thought that what will be, will be and anyone deserved to take out the title”.
Kirsten Worker and Lilah. Copyright Photo: Libby Law Photography
Bar one win where she rode Melanie’s Choice, Kirsten accumulated all her points on Lilah, who she has owned since a three year old, but due to life being so busy, and Kirsten having a couple of years away from the ring, this was her first competitive season. It was in Gisborne that they scored their first win, which was also the first time that Lilah had ever gone against the clock!
“It’s a great height for her, and we were able to jump some good courses in ring one which really suited her, she just loves her job”.
Kirsten didn’t even realise she was in contention for a series placing, let alone in reach of the title until the North Island Championships at Taranaki when it came up in conversation with fellow competitor, Nigel Horton.
Kirsten Worker and Lilah. Copyright Photo: Libby Law Photography
“I didn’t even think about the series, I’m just lucky to have such a consistent horse. It’s such a good group of people doing the Amateur, the comradery is great, and everyone is always happy for each other. I’m also grateful to Dunstan for their ongoing sponsorship. I think these series have a place and encourage people to give it a go and strive to get somewhere”.
23 June 2026
The Jumping Team