Sophie Hopkins from Worcestershire is crowned the NAF Shining Star for March

Tuesday 17 March 2020

Sophie Hopkins from Worcestershire is crowned the NAF Shining Star for March

Nineteen year-old Sophie Hopkins from Bewdley, Worcestershire has been awarded the NAF Shining Star for March 2020. The Hereford and Worcester Academy Lead Coach, Hannah Jackson, nominated Sophie for the Award for her positive attitude and the inspiration she has on her fellow Academy members.

Sophie has shown great dedication to the Academy and according to Hannah, is a “valuable member who is always striving to be better.” Hannah also said “Sophie is the first to put her name down for training and competitions, she is the first person to arrive and the last to leave. No matter what the job, whether it be helping other riders, helping organise training, odd jobs or poo-picking, Sophie is always there to help, she has such a big heart and loves being part of a team. She tries incredibly hard to progress her riding and is always looking to learn and for ways to improve, she takes the task and gets on with the job. Sophie is great to have around and is an inspiration to others.”

After finding out she was the NAF Shining Star winner for March, Sophie said “I am overwhelmed to win the award. I have not had it easy over the last 12 months but my coach, Hannah Jackson, has helped me through the tough times and helped me learn to believe in myself.

“I enjoy the team aspect with the Academy; I have made some very good friends and we all support each other, Hannah is a fantastic coach. My aims for 2020 are to compete at the National Championships. I also have a young horse to bring on and a bigger horse to progress from 1.10m.”

Lisa Field from NAF commented “It’s a real pleasure to hear all about Sophie; her enthusiasm and hard work make her a great team member to have. Sophie has a very caring nature and must be a real pleasure to have around. Congratulations Sophie a very deserving Shining Star!”

Sophie will now receive a number of NAF equine products to use alongside the products she is already using which include Superflex, Cod Liver Oil, Minty Treats, Silky Mane and Tail, a wide variety of shampoo’s and NAF Off products.

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.

NAF:

NAF is the most respected and trusted brand for supplements and applications for your horses in the UK today. Using proven ingredients and creating unique effective formulations NAF has an extensive portfolio of products designed to offer something for your horse’s every need.  

NAF are proud to be Official Suppliers to the British Equestrian Teams and Business Partners to British Showjumping supporting the NAF Five Star Training programme and the Shining Star Awards. Jessica Mendoza says “NAF have a great team of veterinary scientists and nutritionists, they are a big help to me and are there at the end of the phone with free advice if and when you need it, 0800 373106 or info@naf-uk.com.”

 

 
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