PG . 14
‘ A highlight recently , was spending 6 months in the USA , living with Karen and Ty Hornick . I gratefully increased my training knowledge , learned new skills , and made lifelong friends . The enjoyable experience allowed me to visit the NSBA , Congress and the AQHA World Show . Watching the world ’ s best horses competing was amazing , but the once in a lifetime opportunity to ride A Certain Vino still gives me goose bumps !’
Returning from injury is tough . Nikita ’ s advice is to slow down , take your time , learn from it and slowly build your confidence in each process .
‘ There are no expectations on how or when you get back in the saddle — only that you do try . Understand that setbacks occur — it takes time to heal . Embrace the changes , even if it means things may never totally be the same . For anyone who ’ s been physically injured , I ’ d encourage you to work hard on your recovery . That was critical to my recovery , but each person ’ s journey is different .’
Nikita ’ s humbly proud of her achievements , her buckles , and her lope in the sunset that no-one saw . Training her horses helped develop special bonds with each one .
‘ If you know — you know . My love for each horse , with their unique personality , has had an amazing impact on my life . I ’ ve met amazing people while showing and will cherish great memories . My Mum , my show family and friends are the motivation , fun and definition of what showing ’ s all about . Thanks to everyone for everything they ’ ve done , offered and shown me . I look forward to every show season as we all continue to ride this crazy adventure called life .’
AUSTRALIAN QUARTER HORSE ASSOCIATION - www . aqha . com . au