Bianca Tanner. Image: Britt Grovenor.

Barastoc Junior Squad: Meet Bianca Tanner

In August 2016, Barastoc launched the Barastoc Junior Squad program to riding enthusiasts aged 13 – 18 who are passionate about riding.

The Barastoc Junior Squad aims to teach, inspire and guide young equine enthusiasts. The squad program assists young riders in gaining the experience needed to support a commercial sponsorship in adulthood, if it is desired or needed, as well as provide a solid understanding of feeding their horses. Each year Barastoc welcomes 20-30 new young riders to be part of the team.

Here, we catch up with junior eventer Bianca Tanner …

“I am Bianca Tanner and I’m a proud member of the Barastoc Junior Squad. Being selected as a part of this year’s squad has been an amazing opportunity for me and I’m so grateful that with the help of Barastoc I have been able to learn and to promote the importance of equine health and nutrition. With access to experts to help with individual diet plans, I have been able to ensure that my equine partners are in top shape to handle the competition season.

“I event two off the track thoroughbreds, and like any athlete it can be tricky to ensure they are being fed right to maintain their health and performance. As a part of the Barastoc team we have regular Zoom chats, which not only educate but promote socialisation with likeminded equestrians. It has been interesting to meet different people all over Australia who even though may ride different disciplines have a common goal and that is to put their horses first. Without Barastoc, I would not have had the opportunity to gain a better understanding of what my horses need from the inside out to ensure their best performance.

“It is my dream to showcase the versatility of the thoroughbred and to help give ex-racehorses a second career after they finish racing. I hope to take a thoroughbred from the track right through to the top levels of eventing one day. I know that my idols Shane Rose and Amanda Ross often compete thoroughbreds and are fans of the breed and I’d like to follow in their footsteps. However, for now, my focus is to continue moving up the height levels of eventing and getting consistent results across the board.

“If I had to give any advice to young riders, it is that you’ll learn more from your horse from the ground than you will ever learn while riding. Liberty work is a strong part of my training regime for this reason. I like to take the time to really get to know my horses, what they like, don’t like and all of their quirks. Each of my horses have different personalities and what works for one doesn’t work for the other. Taking the time to understand this has made me a better rider and a better trainer and has enhanced my partnership with both of my competition horses.

“Thank-you to Barastoc and to Equestrian Life for providing this opportunity for myself and the rest of the Barastoc Junior Squad. I can’t wait to continue this journey with lifelong friends I’ve met through the Junior Squad.”