By Rebecca Skilton
Tynong North equestrians, eventer Nina Clarke and showjumper Max Height, have each been awarded one of the state’s highest equestrian honours at this year’s 2017 Equestrian Victoria Awards Ceremony.
In a night of recognition and celebration of the Victorian Equestrian community, Nina took out Rider of the Year in the discipline of eventing, while 19-year-old Max was awarded Young Ambassador of the Year for showjumping.
An experienced three star rider and NCAS level two coach, Nina has an impressive list of accomplishments. Yet, despite her achievements, the eventer admitted that the award, which factors not only exceptional performances during the year, but also skills, knowledge, presentation and riding ability, came as a shock.
“I was very surprised having won,” Nina said.
“I was genuinely shocked, but I’m really honoured. The award incorporates everything about being a sports person and athlete; from helping to administrate the sport and being an ambassador for equestrian – so it’s more than just riding.”
Similarly, Max, who was a member of the Victorian team at the 2016 South Australian State Showjumping Championships and the 2016 Hygain Young Rider State Squad, admitted his award came as a surprise.
“I wasn’t expecting to win the award at all,” Max said.
“I had good reason not to expect to win – the other finalists, Jacob Wells and Nina Griffiths, are both incredibly talented young riders that I thought were equally deserving of the award, so it came as a total shock to me.”
Nina and Max were among a number of Cardinia Shire residents recognised on the night, with Tonimbuk local Paul Williams awarded Volunteer of the Year and the Tonimbuk Horse Trials Committee taking out Club of the Year Award.
“I think it’s fantastic that Equestrian Victoria recognise the huge amount of volunteer work that keeps the sport of equestrian running in the state,” Nina said.
“But we’re really lucky here in Gippsland. We’ve got fantastic pony clubs in the area and strong support for students riding through the Interschool program and school participation. The depth of talent and experience locally is phenomenal, and we have excellent facilities and great organisations – not to mention local businesses that have continued to support the clubs.”
