Junior Training – Rider Champ at the Spring Horse Trials
Age: 14
Coach: Auburn Excell of Excell Equestrian in San Juan Capistrano
Galway Gazette: Tell us about your horse.
Avery: He’s 16-year-old Irish Sporthorse I’ve had for about a year-and-a-half. His name is What’s That Sportsfield and we call him King.
GG: What’s he like?
Avery: He is really funny. He’s the best boy, but he can be pretty crazy when I’m not on him. He’s always looking for carrots and treats and more food. He really likes oranges, and he eats them whole – peel and all.
GG: How did it feel to win the Junior Training Rider division?
Avery: That was a goal for this year, so it felt really good. My dressage score – a 36.7 – was not our best, but we were double clear in show jumping and cross-country.
GG: How long have your ridden with Auburn?
Avery: About four years. I started riding with her, and I had a pony before King. She’s a really good trainer. She helps me a lot and I really appreciate what I’m learning from her and how much she does for me.
GG: What are your riding goals for the rest of the year?
Avery: I hope to keep doing well at Training and maybe move up some time when I’m ready.
GG: How is it juggling riding with being in 8th grade?
Avery: Riding is a little more complicated with having a horse to take care of – instead of a different sport where you play, then just put the equipment away. I like it. It helps me stay more focused.
GG: Have you volunteered at Galway Downs?
Avery: Yes. Auburn encourages all her riders to volunteer and I have been a jump judge.
GG: What have you learned while jump judging?
Avery: How important it is to keep your leg on over a big fence. And, to give your horse some rein while they are jumping over it.
GG: What’s your favorite thing about Galway?
Avery: I love the cross-country course, how it’s different all the time. Sometimes you only go to the first water complex, and sometimes you go all the way to the water complex at the back. And I love how the surrounding hills are so green right now. It’s beautiful.
GG: Do any of other family members ride?
Avery: My sister Alexis does. She and Petey Pablo competed at Galway in the Junior Novice division. My grandma, Debi Brum, rides, too. And I really appreciate my parents Jessica and Jason. They pay for everything and haul us around everywhere