Twelve-year-old Maddi Davidson's hard work and determination has reaped its reward - winning the Category A Showhunter of the Year at Hastings Horse of the Year.
The Year 8 Kaipaki School student was in a field of 38 ranging in age from 10 to 16.
Showhunter involves eight to 10 jumps at a height of 70cm, including three double lines of jumps where the rider must get the correct striding between the jumps.
The competition was divided into five classes on the first day, with the main championship class on the second day, jumping over one round with a call-back for the top 10 riders.
Davidson and Rhythm N Gold placed fourth, second, second and sixth on the first day.
The HOY championship round was held next day with the pair lying second after the first round of jumping.