There’s something undeniably inspiring about riders who play the long game. Those who balance big ambitions with a deep respect for the process choose to build slowly, carefully, and with purpose. As you’ll discover in this issue, our sport is brimming with equestrians doing just that and doing it brilliantly.

Take Clevedon’s Laura Inkster, who has her sights set on international competition. With a strong support team, a determined mindset, and two exciting horses in Rodrigo MVNZ and Salut MVNZ, she’s laying the groundwork for something special. Meanwhile, Harry Feast continues to build a team of young horses in partnership with Xtreme Sport Horses, proving the value of time, patience, and collaboration. 

We’re also privileged to sit down with four of New Zealand’s top coaches: Emily Cammock, Lisa Coupe, Louisa Hill, and Natasha Waddell - in Trainers Talk Training. They share their philosophies, challenges, and advice for riders looking to progress. It’s a rare glimpse into the minds of those shaping the next generation and a valuable read for anyone looking to elevate their perspective.

We also meet Jordan Scott, whose leap of faith from wedding planner to luxury fashion entrepreneur brings a stylish new edge to the equestrian world. Her label, Jordan Elli, blends timeless design with practical flair,  and it’s all fuelled by her love of horses.

Caira Manson, one of our sport’s quiet achievers, stepped up to the big tracks this season with confidence and class. Her growing string includes the talented Dolce NZPH and the promising Mr Shelby AS, a line-up that suggests exciting seasons ahead.

Young polo and para-sport athlete Max Clarkin continues to defy limitations, notching up international wins in both polo and surfing while chasing new goals in snowboarding and dressage. His energy is infectious, and his story speaks to the strength of family, adaptability, and passion.

Rebecca Mobberley and Alice Crofskey round out this issue with depth and heart, both managing high-level sports alongside academic ambitions. Whether it’s Rebecca’s Grand Prix dressage goals or Alice’s journey through vet school, these riders remind us of the power of grit, gratitude, and love for the horse.

South Canterbury’s Philippa McLeod shares her story of juggling dressage success with motherhood, teaching, and real estate, a heartfelt glimpse into the life of a rider who truly does it all with humour and heart.

Additionally, in this issue, we delve deeper into equine health, examining both physical and mental aspects. In “Preventing Big Head Disease,” the team at Kentucky Equine Research unpacks this complex nutritional condition, explaining why calcium alone won’t fix the problem. It’s a must-read for anyone grazing horses on Kikuyu or high-oxalate pasture.

In “Strong to the Core,” we explore the fundamentals of bone health, from foals to elite athletes. With expert advice on nutrition, training, and injury prevention, this feature provides practical insights to help your horses stay sound and strong at every stage of their lives.

And because a healthy shine reflects what’s happening on the inside, “Shine Bright” dives into coat care with nutrition tips, grooming hacks, and management advice to bring out your horse’s best glow.

Ultimately, “Beyond the Arena” addresses a crucial issue: mental health in performance horses. From managing anxiety to building trust and avoiding burnout, it’s a timely reminder that a happy horse is a truly competitive one.

Enjoy the read, and may it inspire you to keep playing the long game with care, purpose, and pride.

Warmest wishes from the Show Circuit team.