Tamika Donald was left devastated when her pony sustained injuries on the journey over from WA to her home in QLD that were deemed untreatable.

Despite this sad situation, Tamika was able to seek out a new friend in “Langtree Justice” (affectionately referred to as “Bubbles” at home), to continue her love of Combined Training – thanks to her Equine Insurance policy.

Along with her 12 year old brother, Jayden Donald, Tamika actively competes in both Pony Club and Interschool events. We asked the siblings some questions on their horse riding and loved their responses so much we had to share them!

What age did you first start riding and how did your love of horses begin?

T: I started riding when I was 2 years old, but when I was 6 months old I used to sit up on mum’s reining horse “Wrangler” with her. Mum and Dad rode as kids and my brother competed a lot. I didn’t think it was fair he got to ride and not me so I begged to be allowed to compete!

J: I was in Prep when I made friends with a girl named Alise who had horses. I came home from school one day and asked mum to buy me a pony. She did and since then I’ve joined Pony Club and been an active member for 6½ years!

Tamika, does your new pony have any funny habits?

T: Bubbles loves to eat carrots and apples, and most of all loves to eat my hair! His favourite trick is to take my hat off my head and think he is so smart doing it. He loves to play games with me in the paddock and I have so much fun riding him.

What has been your biggest achievement?

T: This year Bubbles and I won the QLD State Champion Combined Training 45cms. This means that I’m on the QLD State team to compete at the Australian Interschool Championships!

J: In Pony Club, my biggest achievement would be winning the gold medal, State Champion for Dressage & Combined Training and also a silver medal, Reserve Champion in Eventing. In Interschool Nationals I was Reserve Champion 90cms Show Jumping in 2016. My favourite event is Show Jumping and the highest jump I’ve cleared is 1.25m!

Do you look up to anyone?

T: I have 2 horse riders I look up to. My idol is Becky Jenkins, she comes and gives us lessons every week. Becky is a world cup Show Jumper and I would love to be just like her. I also look up to Kirsten Foley. She teaches me Dressage and helps me learn all about my horses.

The pair recently competed in Burpengary Pony Club’s Dressage & Combined Training, both winning Dressage Champion rugs in their age groups. Well done Tamika and Jayden!