Young riders take top spots at Lismore Show ahead of national titles

A SUNSHINE Coast rider has claimed top honours at the 2024 Lismore Show, just weeks before competing in the Australian titles at Willinga Park.

Sixteen-year-old Annika Dean, competing for the first time at the Lismore Show, placed third in the show jumping event with her horse Bazz.

She travelled with fellow riders Courtney Scott, Cody Tincknell, and Jodie Tincknell, who all took home ribbons, with Cody placing first and second in the Grand Prix.

The group, who brought 12 horses to the event, said they were drawn to Lismore after hearing it was a well-regarded show.

“We thought ‘why not’, and here we are,” Jodie said.

Annika has been competing for three years and trains alongside Courtney, while working as a groom to further her skills. Her mentors praised her dedication and passion for the sport.

“She’s proven and shown she has a great work ethic and so much desire and passion for this sport. As people that have been around horses for years, when you see that, you support it and try to encourage it,” Jodie said.

The Lismore Show marked the final event before the national competition in November.

Jodie encouraged other jumpers to attend next year, citing the range of events and strong prize money.

“The committee has been very welcoming. We’ll probably come down the highway again,” she said.

Annika is aiming to compete at an elite level and said that competing in shows like Lismore helps improve her skills.