Pony Club Australia is delighted to announce the finalists for the Best Achievement by a Rider Aged 13–17, proudly sponsored by Ranvet.
This award celebrates Pony Club members who have demonstrated excellence in horsemanship, leadership, and club spirit, while balancing school, sport, and community commitments. The winner will be revealed at the Ranvet 2025 Pony Club Australia National Championships Annual Awards & Presentation Dinner, to be held on the evening of Saturday, October 4 at Werribee Park National Equestrian Centre, VIC.
The Finalists
Matilda Mason, 17
Hamilton Pony Club (VIC)
With 11 years of dedicated membership at Hamilton Pony Club, Matilda embodies commitment, leadership, and resilience. Despite the demands of her VCE studies, Matilda maintains an extraordinary 90–95% attendance record at rallies and activities, balancing her academic load with football and keeping two horses in work.
Her competitive record is equally impressive. Matilda has represented Wannon Zone at State Dressage and Showjumping for five consecutive years, often riding multiple horses in multiple disciplines. She has also been a PCA National Team representative in both 2021 and 2023, securing wins in Showjumping, Tetrathlon, and team events.
A highlight of her recent journey has been retraining her Off-the-Track Thoroughbred, Arthuras, from racehorse in 2023 to Interschool Victoria State Champion at 100cm in 2024, and most successful OTT at multiple events. Together, they now compete confidently at 1.20m and are on track to step up to Pony Club A Grade, while also shortlisted for the 2025 PCA Nationals.
Beyond the arena, Matilda is a tireless volunteer: organising equipment stocktakes, running scoring systems, marshalling rings, and mentoring junior riders in certificate work. She has been especially active in promoting Tetrathlon within her club, demonstrating disciplines, setting up laser shooting clinics, and supporting juniors during events—even swimming alongside them to help build confidence.
Angus Kerr, 16
Woodlands Pony Club (VIC)
A foundation member of Woodlands Pony Club, Angus is recognised for his commitment both as a rider and as a mentor. Recently selected as Team Ascot Junior Brand Ambassador for Central Zone, he is a proud representative of his club and Zone across competitions and programs.
Angus has developed his horses, Tucker and Winter, through patience and persistence, producing them into versatile, successful mounts across Dressage, Showjumping, and Eventing. He has claimed strong dressage results, including at the St Andrew’s Dressage Jackpot, Whittlesea CT, and the K&K Equine Dressage Series, and his work with Winter has transformed her into a calm and capable show pony. His inclusion in the EA Junior Showjumping Squad is a reflection of his skill and ambition to progress further in the sport.
But Angus’s achievements extend beyond results. At every rally, competition, and camp, he is known for his generosity of time and encouragement, regularly mentoring younger riders by walking them through courses, teaching safe practices, and sharing advice. His willingness to assist with holiday programs and new riders showcases his dedication to building a welcoming and supportive Pony Club community.
Lucy Johnston, 17
Midlands Pony Club (TAS)
Lucy is widely recognised as a cornerstone member of Midlands Pony Club, with an outstanding attendance record, including 100% attendance in 2024. She rarely misses a rally, and when she does, it’s only because she is competing on behalf of her club.
Her leadership and support of others are defining features. Lucy is known for lending her horses to other members, mentoring younger riders, and offering encouragement at both club and interclub events. She thrives in leadership roles as Co-Club Captain and a Trainee Preliminary Coach, building on her PCA Leadership Certificate project, which created practical certificate resources that continue to help aspiring riders progress.
In competition, Lucy represented MPC at the 2025 State Dressage and Showjumping Championships, while also leading her club’s musical ride and supporting a large group of riders at their first state championships. She balances her own riding development—including retraining a young horse through setbacks—with her coaching and volunteer work.
Lucy is also at the heart of the club’s community spirit, running engaging activities such as hobby horse competitions and colour group challenges, and leading her club to success at the Northern Zone Championships, where MPC won the inaugural Marissa Hall Spirit Award. Resilient, generous, and authentic, Lucy is a true ambassador for her club and the Pony Club movement.
Samika Sheahan, 17
Mareeba & District Pony Club (QLD)
Samika is a rider of exceptional versatility and club spirit, representing Mareeba & District Pony Club across a broad spectrum of disciplines including Showjumping, Campdraft, Stockman’s Challenge, Ranch Sorting, and Horse Sports. She is a regular competitor at local ag shows and clinics, ensuring both her horses stay fit and developing her skills despite limited Pony Club clinics in her area.
In 2024, Samika competed at her first Pony Club Queensland State Championships, with podium results including 1st in Formal Gymkhana (16 years) and 1st in Campdraft (15/16 years), alongside solid placings in Sporting Gymkhana and Stockman’s Challenge. Her achievements earned her a place on the 2025 PCA China Exchange Team, highlighting her abilities on the national stage.
Samika also received the Zone 18 Sue Real Etiquette Award in 2024, recognising her respect, politeness, and generosity both in and out of the arena. She is a regular helper at rallies—setting up gymkhanas, working in the canteen, supporting ground maintenance, and assisting coaches. Her friendly and approachable manner sees her always willing to answer questions, share knowledge, and support fellow riders, making her a role model within her club.
What’s Next
The winner of the Best Achievement by a Rider Aged 13–17, sponsored by Ranvet, will be announced during the Ranvet 2025 Pony Club Australia National Championships Annual Awards & Presentation Dinner on October 4, 2025.
Congratulations to Matilda, Angus, Lucy, and Samika on their remarkable achievements. Each finalist exemplifies the spirit of Pony Club—dedication, sportsmanship, and a love of learning—and we are proud to celebrate their journeys.
