Eventing Young Rider of the Year

SPORTING PROFILE

Name: ELLA SMITH 
Age: 17
Status: Young Rider
Years competing in Eventing: 7
Biggest competition achievement: Completing the Australian International 3DE in 2019
Biggest equestrian achievement: 2019 Young Eventing Rider of the Year

What inspired you to become an Eventer?

Originally, I thought I would be a showjumper as dressage and I were really struggling to get along (still maybe to this day). However, my love for cross country was so strong that I quickly found some ways to improve my flat work, and here I am still eventing 7 years later! I remember watching Melbourne International 3DE when I was just 8 years old, and from that day all I could dream of was one day galloping in front of that mansion myself!

If you could achieve anything you wished for in your sport, what would it be?

I would love to be able to represent Australia in the Oceania Young Riders Trans Tasman team and maybe later on be able to ride on some senior Aussie teams.

What is the biggest mental challenge you have had to overcome to improve faster in your sport?
Whether you have your best competition result, or a day that has left your team with some homework, people will always have their own opinions. As a rider, my main job is to ensure my horses are well and happy in themselves and that I give each ride everything I’ve got. I have learnt to focus on my own progression and not worry about what others think!

Having said that, I also acknowledge that not everyone can be perfect all the time and it is very normal to make mistakes. They are the best types of learning opportunities! Just like Hannah Montana said, ‘everybody makes mistakes, everybody has those days…… nobody’s perfect’.

How do you know the difference between good advice and advice that might hinder you?
At the end of the day, I think it just comes down to what works best for you and your horse. Personally I try to take on all of the advice I am given, and from there it is just about trying to pick apart and string together what works. You can learn something from everyone

What training tips do you have for young eventers trying to achieve their equestrian dreams?
It is so important that you have heaps of fun throughout your eventing journey, as our sport holds so many highs and lows. Make sure you stay present and enjoy every moment!

Surround yourself with people who fully support & encourage you to achieve your dreams, as they will also be the people that are there to help dust you off and stand by you in the tough times.

What would you change today to make yourself better tomorrow?
Accept the things that I can’t change and focus on the things I can change in order to get better.