Avid Equestrian Embraces Transformative Experience

The challenges would be trying to train as an equestrian but also my love of school sporting activities and competitions on the weekend disrupts my horse riding training. However, I do seize the opportunity to commit once I get the chance to.

Seisen Phoenix Soars!
This month we feature Mihika Gupta who is a young but avid equestrian who has developed a passion for horses and enjoys training and working towards the day she is able to officially compete in her chosen sport. Read all abut Mihika’s love of horses and her equestrian journey here.

Mihika Gupta

Grade 7

Equestrian

How old were you when you started your chosen sport?

I was introduced to the world of horses when I was in second grade and mounted my first horse when I was ten years old

How did you start and become interested in your sport? (Parents' signed you up? You saw someone competing and decided to attempt it)

My mother who was a former university equestrian athlete introduced me to the sport and I have been intrigued and love horses ever since.

How long have you been engaging in your sport?

I mounted my first horse when I was ten years old and have been training for the past 3 years.

How often do you train, and where do you train?

I train every weekend at Avalon Hillside Farm and dedicate one to two and a half hours of focused training, improving my skills and deepening my bond with these magnificent creatures.

What level of competition do you engage in?

I have been training but yet to venture into any official competitions. Avalon has provided me with smaller scale friendly posting, trot or canter competitions but I am still waiting for a chance to officially compete when I am ready. As I compete for our school during the various sports seasons, I seize the opportunities to catch up with my training during the summer or in between sports seasons.

How successful have you been? Did you win or do extremely well in certain competitions? Please describe what competitions they are.

I am ready to embrace the thrill of these friendly competitions within the Avalon community and I eagerly await the opportunity to take on the jumping events that have interested me. 

Have you faced any challenges?

The challenges would be trying to train as an equestrian but also my love of school sporting activities and competitions on the weekend disrupts my horse riding training. However, I do seize the opportunity to commit once I get the chance to.

Any final words of advice for budding athletes?

I would say to those who are curious that I recommend you try horseback riding. If you embark on this wondrous journey, you need to temper your expectations and mastery is not achieved overnight. It requires patience, dedication and time. Embrace the journey as it will be a transformative experience designed to unlock a world that will forever enrich your life.

A final sports quote:

No matter the falls, the bucking, or the kicks, my appreciation for all that horses offer remains unwavering.