Oliver Chant from Hampshire Academy is the latest NAF Shining Star
Monday 12 June 2023
Oliver Chant, from Alton, Hampshire, has been awarded the latest NAF Shining Star accolade. Oliver, a member of the British Showjumping Hampshire Academy, was nominated for the award by his coach Claire Read.
Oliver is currently riding two ponies: his own 148cm gelding Ashwey Patchwork Sparrow, whom he has had for 6 months, and his sister’s 128cm gelding Bryngwennol Festival, with whom he is aiming to qualify for the 128cm Stepping Stones Final at Stoneleigh in August.
Commenting on Ashwey Patchwork Sparrow, who is known as Patch at home, Oliver said: “He loves a cuddle, especially when he’s lying down having a rest in his stable, but when I get on him, he springs into life and loves his work. He’s got bags of scope although this means we need to have 8ft stallion fencing to keep him in his field at home!”
Following the news that he is the latest recipient of the NAF Shining Star Award, Oliver said: “I was so happy when I found out I had been awarded the NAF Shining Star award, it was a brilliant surprise. When I found out that Claire had nominated me, I was shocked and felt really proud, but I didn’t expect to actually win the award, so it is very exciting and I'm so grateful to Claire and the Hampshire Academy.”
Talking about his showjumping journey with Patch, Oliver commented: “We are gradually getting to used to each other. I am growing in confidence, and we are competing in 1.10m and 1.15m classes. Recently, we had a great round at Wales and West and got our first placing in a 1.10m class. I am hoping to go round some bigger tracks next year and hopefully, one day, be selected to jump for Great Britain’s Junior Team with the support of the coaches at the Hampshire Academy.”
Talking about his long-term goals as a rider, Oliver said: “My dream is to become a professional show jumper and, with the help of Hampshire Academy training and encouragement, I hope this goal can be achieved.”
Oliver also rides for international rider Georgie Strutton, who is based near Hickstead, and has been on the JPL Shetland Racing Team, although recently has decided he wanted to focus on showjumping.
Claire Read, Hampshire Academy Coach said: “Oliver shows great commitment at Academy training. He has a professional attitude and outstanding passion for the sport, not only in his riding, but his off-the-pony learning.”
Explaining what he enjoys most about being part of the Hampshire Academy, Oliver said: I just love jumping at British Showjumping competitions and training with the Hampshire Academy. The coaches are really helpful and positive. I love the training days arranged by the Academy which are great fun and I have made some lovely friends who share my love of jumping.”
Lisa Field from NAF added: “It is a real pleasure to hear all about Oliver and how hard he is working toward his goals as a rider. It shows with his dedication and determination during the short period he has had Patch that he has the ability to go far. We look forward to following Oliver’s journey. Well done, Oliver!”
The NAF Shining Star Award was introduced when NAF became a British Showjumping Business Partner. The award is for members of a Junior Academy who have shown a great deal of commitment, progression, and outstanding behaviour, along with their riding ability and much more. Riders are nominated by their lead coach, and then judged and awarded by NAF to one person each month.
For further information on NAF follow them on Facebook and Instagram for regular updates and rider stories or visit the NAF website at naf-equine.eu/uk
Further information on the British Showjumping Academies can be found here: britishshowjumping.co.uk/training/Academies-1
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