Elita Smith, staff, customers and friends of Saddleworld Sale (Victoria) were thrilled to learn that local girl Courtney Shears recently became Equestrian Victoria’s, Young Showjumping Rider of the Year, for 2014.

Courtney Shears is an active member of the Sale Showjumping Club and great supporter of the Sale Saddleworld store. She has been following the showjumping circuit for a number of years and is now enjoying recognition for her talent and great results.

Elita told Saddleworld, “This was an amazing experience for Courtney which involved nominating for the award, providing her performances, listing current involvement in the sport  of Showjumping and other relevant contributions to the sport.”

“Courtney ticked the boxes that the 3 selectors were looking for and progressed to the next phase where the top 10 entrants took part in a practical phase consisting of a number of competency elements.”

Courtney explained,  “I was one of the top ten young showjumping riders and attended a training weekend and participated in lessons, personal training sessions, a motivational speaking session, a stress management presentation, public speaking and interviews. Three  local riders made it through to this phase of the selection process – Melissa Backman from Maffra, Jacob Wells from West Gippsland and Courtney Shears from Sale.”

“After the weekend’s program was completed, the 3 selectors were able to identify the top 3 riders and we were invited to attend the Award ceremony at the Crown Casino in Melbourne.  The selectors interviewed the top 3 riders for approximately 15 minutes before the commencement of the evening.”

“Following this gruelling and somewhat daunting assessment process, I was thrilled to hear that I had been named the winner.  The selectors said that they were looking for a Young Rider who would represent the sport well, and be a mature role model for Showjumping.” Courtney added proudly.

Courtney was asked about her plans for the future and she said, “I will finish year 12 and then I would hope to travel Australia, taking part in the showjumping circuit.  I am looking to reach my goal of riding World Cup when turn 18.” 

Aside from her personal ambitions and achievements in showjumping, Courtney (below) works hard to encourage sponsor participation, so that Australian events are able to conduct high standard showjumping events and WC qualifying competitions.  She recognises that Australia's international participation is reliant on the quality of events held here.

Courtney would like to improve her understanding of sports administration, running events and managing her own participation through to a successful international career.

The Sale Showjumping Club holds a number of events and activities throughout the year, these include:
-           September Show 6th & 7th 2014 (lead up show for the Australian Titles)
-           Grand Prix Show – November 27th, 28th, 29th, 30th, 2014     
             (The Sale GP Show is recognised as one the biggest and best shows on the
             Australian showjumping circuit)
-           January/February Show 31st & 1st, 2014
-           Also training clinics and freshman days.

Staff, customers and friends of Saddleworld Sale warmly congratulate Courtney Shears for her outstanding win.   Elita Smith said, “We wish Courtney continued success and hope to follow her career path closely. She is a rider worth watching both now … and the future!”