Competition Reflections… Road To Sydney Royal
What an incredible few days.
Competition at Sydney Royal is well underway, and honestly, it’s everything I hoped it would be… and more.
Walking into that ring for the first time was a moment I’ll never forget. After months of preparation — the early mornings, the quiet rides, the fitness work, the ups and downs — it all led to that one feeling of stepping through the gate and knowing we made it here.
And in that moment, the results almost fade into the background.
Because I already feel so incredibly proud.
Angelo has given me everything across his classes. He’s felt amazing — confident, balanced, and completely with me. Competing in the Novice Show Hunter Pony, Open Show Hunter Pony, and Working Hunter Pony, he’s stepped up every time with consistency and heart.
To come into an environment like this and feel him perform the way he has… it’s exactly what we’ve been working towards.
Gee and Mel have had their own special moments too, taking part in the In Hand classes for Riding Pony, Saddle Pony, and Arabian Derivative. Watching them step into this atmosphere, still so early in their journey together, quietly learning and growing with every experience, has been incredibly special.
There’s something about them as a combination that just makes you excited for what’s to come.
I’ve really tried to take in every second — the atmosphere, the nerves, the buzz of the ring, the sound of hooves on the surface, and the feeling of being part of something so much bigger.
These are the moments you dream about… and then suddenly, you’re living them.
Back in our little loft above the stables, still very much in the Sydney Royal bubble, it’s all part of the experience — even if it does mean a slightly different kind of sleep! Safe to say the eye masks and ear plugs have been very well used… and very much appreciated!
As members of the Royal Agricultural Society of New South Wales, being able to step back and watch the ring events from the members’ stand has added another layer to it all — taking in the atmosphere, appreciating the quality of horses, and just soaking up the experience from every angle.
Sydney Royal has always been a dream.
But this… this is something more.
This is the early mornings, the long days, the quiet work when no one is watching — all coming together in a moment that makes every bit of it worth it.
And standing here now, in the middle of it all, you realise…
this isn’t just a dream anymore.
This is our story. ✨
