Throughout 2024, Flo has been a shining example of what it means to “show up” — literally and figuratively. She has attended every rally day at Kellerberrin Riding & Pony Club, arriving early, staying late, and lifting the energy of everyone around her. Her coaches describe her as “the first to arrive and the last to leave” and “a quiet achiever who leads by example.”
But Flo’s dedication goes far beyond her home club, located in the Wheatbelt region of Western Australia. She has represented Kellerberrin at Eastern Zone and Avon Valley Pony Club camps, taken part in a Les Bunning clinic, and attended the State Tetrathlon training clinic in January. Her reliability saw her selected as a demo rider for the Pony Club Regional Coach Development Clinic, and even when she wasn’t riding, she continued learning — attending a non-riding clinic at Beatty Park to expand her horsemanship knowledge.
As a country rider who travels from a neighbouring town to participate in club activities, Flo’s consistent attendance and enthusiasm are even more remarkable. She currently holds her D* Proficiency Certificate and is already working towards her C Certificate, showing a maturity well beyond her years and a strong commitment to progressing through the Pony Club syllabus.
A season of success
2024 was a standout season for Flo and her much-loved grey pony, Paddy. Together they claimed the WA State Pony Club Under-12 Tetrathlon Championship, where Flo also earned the highest run score overall for Juniors — a testament to her fitness, discipline, and determination.
Her results speak volumes; together with Paddy, Flo won the Mortlock Tetrathlon (U12) and Mortlock One-Day Event (ODE), and was second in the Beverley Tetrathlon (U12), Avon ODE, and Eastern Zone ODE.
“Flo and Paddy are a dream team,” says one coach. “She rides with quiet confidence and always puts in the work behind the scenes.” Another adds, “Her results speak for themselves, but it’s her attitude that makes her truly exceptional.”
A bond built on trust
What makes Flo stand out even more is the way she cares for her pony. Her gentle, attentive nature and deep respect for Paddy have earned her the Patrons Trophy at Kellerberrin Riding & Pony Club — a prestigious award recognising outstanding sportsmanship, horsemanship, and horse care.
“Flo treats Paddy like a best friend,” her coaches note. “She’s always checking on him, making sure he’s comfortable and happy. You can see how much she loves her pony. It’s a partnership built on kindness and trust.”
The heart of Pony Club
For Flo, this national award is more than personal recognition — it’s a celebration of her club and community. “The award is a huge honour,” she says. “Our Pony Club is very small but filled with dedication, motivation, and inspiration. We can do anything if we work together and keep learning to do better for our ponies and community. This award reflects that, and I’m very grateful.”
In every way, Florence Wilson represents the true essence of Pony Club — commitment, courage, kindness, and teamwork. Her achievements are impressive, but it’s her humility, determination, and love for her pony that make her truly special.
This article was kindly supplied by Pony Club Australia.
