JOHN WOLLASTON ANGLICAN COMMUNITY SCHOOL
JUMPING TO THE TOP Students at John Wollaston Anglican Community School have a long-standing tradition of competing in Equestrian, at both a State and National level. For more than 24 years, students have represented the School displaying their passion for the sport they love. This year, two Equestrian students put on a stunning performance at the 2021 Saddles Plus Interschool Equestrian Festival at the State Equestrian Centre, Brigadoon. At just 9 years old, Year 4 student, Matilda March was the youngest rider in her classes, competing in Showjumping and Combined Training on her two horses, Judaroo Espionage (Jasper) and Redgum Little Miss Giggles (Giggles). Matilda was in outstanding form achieving 1st place in the Primary 60cm Showjumping Championship class, the Primary 70cm Showjumping Championship class and the Primary 70cm Showjumping Participant class. She also achieved 2nd place in the Primary 60cm Showjumping Participant class and 3rd place in the Primary 60cm Combined Training Championship class. Matilda said: “I was so happy and excited to compete in the Interschool Equestrian Festival. My Dad used to compete in Equestrian and I want to follow in his footsteps. My goal is to work towards jumping higher in our next competition.” For Year 7 student, Eva Anning, this was her first taste of competing at an interschool event. Riding The Brass 12
Bear (Teddy), Eva achieved amazing results, placing 4th in the Secondary 45cm Showjumping Participant class and 10th in the Secondary 60cm Showjumping Participant class. Eva said she had been to a couple of State events but had never ridden in any of them. “I felt really nervous before the event but when I started riding Teddy in the warm up, I forgot about my nerves and just rode,” Eva said. “I like riding because it creates a connection with an animal stronger than any other. When I’m riding, I forget about everything else that’s going on in the world. I forget about homework I must do or how early I must get up for training in the morning. It’s just one moment of my life where it’s just me and Teddy.” Competing in Equestrian events demands dedication with the students training several times a week practising various skills and working with their horses. Matilda and Eva are well supported by their families and staff. Equestrian coach and Science teacher, Rebecca Phillips said she was incredibly proud of the sportsmanship, skill and presentation of John Wollaston riders at the event. “Matilda and Eva are dedicated riders who have a bright future in the sport,” she said.
