Chloe McDonnell from Middlesex is the latest NAF Shining Star
Friday 17 January 2025
Chloe McDonnell, from Uxbridge, Middlesex, has been awarded the latest NAF Shining Star accolade. Chloe, a member of the British Showjumping Beds and Bucks Academy, was nominated for the award by her coach, Claire Darwin.
Thrilled to have received the news that she had been nominated for the NAF Shining Star Award, Chloe commented: “I was both shocked and surprised at the news of winning but also pleased that my hard work has been recognised”.
Fifteen-year-old Chloe has one pony that she competes – Havenbeech Silver Condor, whom she has had for three and a half years. Talking fondly about the seven-year-old gelding, who is known as Topaz at home, Chloe said: “Topaz was just three-years-old when we bought him and I have really enjoyed producing him myself. When we aren’t showjumping, we love to go for a gallop across the fields with our friends.”
Chloe had an exciting 2024 season and is looking forward to continuing her progress in 2025: “My proudest moment was qualifying for the 2024 Blue Chip Championships and in 2025 I would love to qualify for the STX-UK Pony Novice final at the British Showjumping National Championships.
“I also loved competing at the Academy Championships. I had a great time with my friends and learnt lots and I am looking forward to hopefully competing there again this year.”
Claire Darwin, Beds and Bucks Academy Coach said: “Chloe is an active member of our Academy and enjoys attending regular training. She has been producing her young pony carefully with plenty of success and has always faced any challenges head on with positivity. Her pony, Topaz, received an injury which led to eight months of rehab and then some confidence issues when coming back to the ring, but they have worked through this slowly to build a good partnership.
“Last summer, Chloe jumped at the UNIBED Academy Championships as part of the Mini team and produced some amazing rounds over the competition and really grew in confidence. On the final day she left the ring and burst in to happy tears with lots of hope that all her hard work is paying off and for this I’m incredibly proud of her.”
Talking about her favourite thing about the Beds and Bucks Academy, Chloe commented: " I love being a part of the Beds and Bucks academy and the best thing about it is the people. Everyone is so lovely and supportive, and I always enjoy attending both the training and shows with them.
“I would love to say a massive thank you to Karen who runs our academy, and the coaches Claire and Natasha who have made this award possible and all of the Beds and Bucks members who have supported our journey.”
Lisa Field from NAF added: “Chloe, I am so pleased that you haven’t let a setback stop you from continuing to develop and pursue your passion. It is clear to see that your hard work and commitment to your Academy and training is paying off and we can’t wait to see what you achieve this year!”
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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