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AQHA FEATURE: YOUTH PROFILE- RUBY HEFFERNAN
Who has been your biggest influence or mentor in your horse journey? My biggest mentors are my mum and my pop. They have been coaching and training my sister and I since the very beginning, always making sure we understand the purpose of each exercise, when to use it and that we ride with a purpose instead of just being a passenger. They also always set an example of hard work, putting in endless hours to train and prepare the horses themselves. A special mention also for Dave Caleo for all his help and generosity. He has always been very encouraging.
GOALS & AMBITIONS What are your goals for the next 12 months? For me, the next 12 months is going to be focused on getting our two young horses ready for the show pen and hopefully getting them out and about soon.
Where do you see yourself in five years? In 5 years, I hope to become more knowledgeable and experienced in training and working with different types of horses. I would also like to work with variety of different professionals to increase my exposure to different training methods.
BEYOND THE ARENA What do you enjoy most about being involved in AQHA? My favourite thing about the AQHA is going to shows and being around like-minded and friendly people.
How do you balance horses with school, work or other commitments? I like to just get my schoolwork out of the way early so that I don ' t have to worry about it.
QUICK FIRE FUN Early mornings or late night events? Early mornings Favourite tack brand? Kathys Tack Go to pump-up song before you compete? Miami-Morgan Wallen One word that describes you in the saddle? Determined
FINAL THOUGHTS Who would you like to thank for supporting your journey? I would like to thank my immediate family, my mum and dad, Pop and Nanna, my sister Jessica for keeping me on the straight and narrow and helping in every way to allow me to reach my dreams.
I would also like to thank our professionals trainers Dave Caleo, Trish Wettenhall, the team of Break o day quarter horses and Liz Keating for the opportunities they have given me, the nuggets of advice and guidance that have help shaped my understanding and knowledge and for strengthening my legs!!
I would also like to thank Fiona Oneil, Linda Cavallo, Judith Cotterill, Michelle and Peter Southgate for allowing me to ride their horses at various events. Those rides have been a great learning experience. Thankyou.
AUSTRALIAN QUARTER HORSE ASSOCIATION- www. aqha. com. au