From a three-year-old rider to an international competitor, Corowa’s Zali Mills is ready to take on the world in Germany next week.
Corowa’s own Zali Mills is gearing up to represent Australia at the prestigious Future Champions event in Hagen, Germany this June.
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This incredible opportunity highlights Zali’s dedication and talent in the world of dressage, a journey that began at just three years old.
Zali, a 14-year-old student at Corowa High School, has been passionate about horses from a young age. She started riding and showing horses at age three, but it wasn’t until 2020 that she dove into dressage with her Arabian riding pony, Kizashi, from Future Farms in Bolinda, Victoria.
This step marked the beginning of her serious competitive career, guided by her coach, Jessica Dertell.
After school, Zali heads straight to her nan's house, where several of her horses are stabled. There, she spends hours training, perfecting her skills, and preparing for competitions.
Weekends are also particularly busy for Zali, filled with competitions and additional training sessions at Future Farms.
Zali’s dedication has paid off with numerous achievements. She won the Grand Nationals in 2017, setting the stage for future successes.
In 2022, she secured first place in her age division at the Melbourne Royal and was the top girl rider at the Bathurst Royal Show in 2022 and 2023.
Her victories continued with the FEI children's champion title at the Willinga Park Dressage by the Sea competition in 2023, and she recently won the FEI children's preliminary tests at Dressage and Jumping with the Stars in 2024.
“Going to Germany is a big step for me,” Zali said.
“I’m excited to see how I compare with riders from around the world. It’s a great opportunity to learn and grow.”
Judges’ feedback has been crucial in Zali’s development. Dressage scoring is detailed, covering each movement, and judges’ comments help her understand where she can improve. Zali appreciates this constructive feedback, using it to refine her technique and enhance her performances.
A strong bond with her horses is key to Zali’s success. She’s lucky to work with reliable, kind, and mostly calm horses. Her ability to understand and respond to their behaviours comes from years of experience and guidance from her grandmother and coach.
“My favourite part of riding is the connection I feel with my horses. It’s a special bond that makes all the hard work worth it,” she said.
Her coach, Jessica Dertell has been a guiding force in Zali’s career. Jessica’s own experience in international competition has inspired Zali. Currently in Germany campaigning for the Paris Olympics, Jessica’s involvement in Zali’s development has been pivotal.
The idea for Zali to compete in Germany came from Jessica’s own experience at the event last year, with the hope that young Australian riders would gain valuable international exposure.
Zali’s biggest supporters are her grandmother, Cherie Mills, who has a background in horses, and her mother, Belinda, who couldn’t be prouder of her daughter’s accomplishments.
“My mum and nan are my biggest supporters. They’ve been with me through everything, and I couldn’t do this without them,” Zali said.
Belinda expressed her pride and excitement for Zali's upcoming competition in Germany.
“Zali’s long-term goal of competing overseas is now coming true, and we can’t wait to see what’s next,” she said.
The Future Champions event held on June 11-16, will feature three full teams from Australia, showcasing the growing talent in the country’s equestrian community. All riders are self-funded and will be leasing horses for the competition, making this a significant investment in their futures.
The event will be streamed live on ClipMyHorse.TV, allowing supporters back home to cheer for Zali and her teammates.
“I’m excited about the future and what’s next in my riding career,” Zali said.
“I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me.”
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