Ruby Vears. Image supplied.
Barastoc Junior Squad: Meet Ruby Vears
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 young rider Ruby Vears…
“Hey everyone, my name is Ruby Vears and I’m a show jumper from South Australia. This is my horse Punter aka Proclaimer. Punter and I compete Juniors together. What I love about Punter is his personality and his big heart. We have been a combination for over a year now and I feel as though we have built a strong relationship with each other.
“I have been blessed by the opportunity Barastoc has given me by being involved in the Barastoc Junior Squad. So far I’ve made new friends across Australia in multiple disciplines and have had wonderful opportunities to speak and listen to professional horse riders, nutritionists and magazines such as Equestrian Life.
“I’ve learnt so much about my horses’ health and wellbeing through my inclusion in the squad, and this has helped my horses and myself get though a big season of jumping. My goals for this year is to be back competing at the Royal Adelaide show again doing the Juniors on Punter. And I hope that I can continue to bring my young off the track horses through the levels of jumping.
“My favourite thing about shows is not just the competitive side of it – I thoroughly enjoy the social aspect too. I love hanging out with my friends making horsey memories that last a lifetime. The one thing that I love most about this sport is that you’re forever learning. Even if it’s watching videos of your rounds over and over again, or getting advice from your coach or a friend and seeing results at shows. There is something just so rewarding about it.”
You can find out more about the Barastoc Junior Squad here.
This article was written in conjunction with Barastoc Horse.
