12-year-old a champion rider

Matamata’s Charlotte Chittick, 12, is riding high after winning a top age group rider award at New Zealand Horse of the Year.

Charlotte won the Under 13 Champion Rider of the Year class, which was judged on competitors’ riding ability.

Charlotte’s mum, Lisa Chittick said it is a coveted class.

Charlotte qualified for the class by winning champion rider classes throughout the year.

Mrs Chittick said Charlotte was fantastic at Horse of the Year.

“It’s a huge achievement and I think it’s great for a kid who puts in the hard work and effort to reap the rewards,” Mrs Chittick said.

“I enjoy the happiness when I do well,” Charlotte said.

Horse of the Year (HOTY) is the largest equestrian event in the Southern Hemisphere, where two and a half thousand combinations of horse and rider can compete in almost 20 disciplines.

The event is held annually in Hawke’s Bay and took place from March 18-23.

Charlotte trains five to six days a week and competes every second or third weekend during the summer.

Her hard work and dedication is paying off as Charlotte also won the Paced and Manners class at HOTY.

“Paced and Manners is how well the pony behaves and the pony showing itself off to the best of its ability,” Charlotte said.

Charlotte competed on her pony Buster, who Charlotte said has his own personality.

“He thinks he’s a human,” Charlotte said.

“He eats chips and he always gets out of his paddock. He’s great and he’s got brown freckles.”

Charlotte began riding when she was only 4 years old and has high hopes for her equestrian career.

“I don’t know if I want to do jumping or dressage but I’d like to end up at the Olympics,” Charlotte said.

Mrs Chittick just wants Charlotte to continue having lots of fun riding.

Charlotte’s dad, Mark Chittick, said Charlotte has an unbelievable attitude.

“She is hard working. Determined but composed,” Mr Chittick said

Charlotte is going to Australia in December to represent New Zealand at Werribee. She will compete on Buster.