Rider Spotlight: Emma Grave
Emma Grave joined Dandenong Ranges Pony Club when she was seven years old. Now 17 and a member of Pakenham Pony Club, Emma is preparing to join the PCIA Tetrathlon International Exchange in Queensland in the coming weeks.
As a multi-talented athlete, it’s no surprise Emma was drawn to Tetrathlon.
“I like the idea of the different sports within Tetrathlon, as each one challenges you in different ways and provides an opportunity to be an overall sports person,” she said.
The chance to combine her swimming endeavours with her enjoyment for running and love for equestrian was a welcome one, and she has enjoyed developing skills in pistol shooting.
Alongside the athletic component of Tetrathlon, Emma values the positive experiences she has gained from her participation.
“At my first Tet, I found the other competitors so welcoming and happy to help out, it was a really nice atmosphere.
“I loved competing at the State Championships, as it was a challenging jump phase and such a great day.”
Emma competes in Tetrathlon with her New Forest Pony, Kapeta Cadnam (known fondly as Harry). Harry has given her lots of confidence, and like all great ponies is a bit of a character! This makes their partnership all the more fun.
Lately, Emma has been attending local Dressage and Showjumping competitions and clinics. She is also busy with swimming training six times a week, and recently competed at the Commonwealth Games selection trials in Sydney. This has been great preparation for the upcoming Tetrathlon Exchange.
“I am really looking forward to meeting people from other countries and competing together in a big competition. I am also incredibly proud to be representing my country.”
Being a part of Pony Club has allowed Emma to try new things and learn from different instructors. She has been able to improve her skills and the partnership with her horse, and build confidence in jumping and cross country.
“Pony Club has so many opportunities to develop further as an athlete, from competing to the knowledge gained from working through the certificate levels.”
For Emma, some of the best parts of being at Pony Club include having fun with friends at rallies and sharing in the joy of doing what they love together.
Looking forward, Emma hopes to continue improving her Tetrathlon skills and developing as an athlete. She would also like to continue working towards riding at a higher level in Dressage and Eventing.
Pony Club Victoria would like to congratulate Emma and wish her luck as she heads to the exchange in Queensland. We are proud to have a number of riders attending the exchange and we wish them the best as they take on this exciting opportunity.
- Chloe Leen – Drysdale Leopold Pony Club
- Emma Grave – Pakenham Pony Club
- Teesa Leen – Drysdale Leopold Pony Club
- Oliver Homer – Macarthur Pony Club
- William Nieuwenhuis – Drysdale Leopold Pony Club
Coach: Darcy Wade – Stratford Pony Club
We love hearing your stories! If you have a story you’d like to share, please email the office.
office@ponyclubvic.org.au