Martha Cussins from Northumbria is December’s NAF Shining Star
Monday 24 January 2022
Twelve year old Martha Cussins from Alnwick, Northumbria has been awarded the NAF Shining Star for December. Martha is a member of the Northumbria Junior Academy and was nominated for the award by her coach, Philippa Mckeever.
“Martha has been a keen and supportive academy member over the past 2 years. She is a pleasure to train and supportive to her peers. This young lady has the drive, ability and will to win to take her to the very top in British Showjumping. Also a special mention to her Mum Sophie for sticking to the plan and supporting Martha whilst keeping her own excitement in check”, said Philippa.
Martha set out in 2021 with the aim of qualifying for the Mini Major competition at London International Horse Show, as well as competing at Junior BS competition with her JD pony, Pegaz, who she has had for almost two and a half years. “Martha knew this would take hard work and a lot of training as she was up against riders competing at a much higher level on seasoned ponies”, said Philippa, “Once qualified, Martha was still motivated and now wanted to do her very best in the final. She trained hard and was very receptive to any new ideas in order for her to achieve the best result she could”. At London International, Martha and Pegaz were paired with Dan Delsart and Granby, where they went on to take 2nd place in the Mini Major Final. “It really was the stuff of dreams”, said Martha, “Our stable was indoors alongside the famous showjumpers, and we had a practice in the main arena, where I warmed up next to Scott Brash and Harry Charles! I couldn't wait to get in the arena [for the Mini Major Final] and Pegaz took it all in his stride, he jumped his little heart out for me with a brilliant and fast clear and I was delighted to be place 2nd. It was a day to remember forever!”
Following the news that she was the winner of December’s NAF Shining Star, Martha said “I am over the moon to have been awarded the December Shining Star award. I can't believe it! Thank you so much Philippa Mckeever for nominating me”.
Martha attended Bolesworth in 2020 as part of the Northumbria Mini’s Academy where she went double clear for the team. “Cantering over the bridge and into the International arena, then jumping clear over the 2012 Olympic fences, albeit not at the same height, was at this point the most amazing thing I'd done” recalled Martha. “Being part of a team and getting to know other young and local showjumpers, whilst having top class coaching from Philippa is the draw of the Junior Academy for me”.
Lisa Field from NAF added “Martha’s pure grit and determination to achieve her goals is inspirational and, along with her excellent attitude to training, is achieving great results. She really is a true Shining Star and a great asset to the Northumbria Academy. Well done Martha and best of luck for the season!”
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.
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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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