Rachel Hare has represented Deniliquin Pony Club all around the country, but it was in her home town where she had one of her proudest moments.
The 19 year-old was presented with the Edward River Council Junior Sportsperson of the Year Award at the Australia Day Awards ceremony on Tuesday.
Hare received the honour for her achievements in showjumping where she has competed at state competitions and has secured her place in the Australian Showjumping squad for 2020/21.
‘‘I’m super grateful to have been nominated for this award and it’s an honor to accept it,’’ she said.
‘‘I appreciate being recognised for my sporting achievements.
‘‘I’ve been riding horses since before I could even walk; I just love it.
‘‘I would like to thank the council for running this event and my mum and dad (Sara and Kevin Hare) for carting me all across the country to be able to compete in showjumping.
‘‘I would also like to congratulate the other nominees.’’
Hare has been a member of the Deniliquin Pony Club since she was four years-old.
Her dedication to the sport was outlined in her citation.
‘‘Rachel has showed up rain, hail or shine dressed in full club uniform with a smile at every rally she has attended,’’ it read.
‘‘If she’s ever absent from from our (Deniliquin Pony Club’s) monthly rally, it’s because she is off somewhere representing the state or competing at state level.
‘‘In 2019 Rachel participated in the Equestrian Australia Showjumping Class and has secured herself a place on the squad for 2020, which competes in 2020/21.
‘‘Rachel’s father Kevin usually takes her where she needs to be in a truck he meant to paint 15 years ago.
‘‘She never complains or feels inferior, she just saddles up and shows them how it’s done.
‘‘Rachel is a huge advocate for off the track thoroughbreds, riding several herself, and a wonderful student and mentor at the pony club.
‘‘With a little help this young woman could easily make the Olympic show jumping team.’’