11 year old Ava Halloran has been riding horses ever since she could walk…its just what happens when you have competitive riders as parents! Starting out on a “licorice allsort”, founded a few times over 30 something year old pony named Bobby at the ripe old age of 2 years…showing was far from the plan but riding was always going to happen.

It wasn’t until two amazing Glen Gwin ponies entered the Halloran property, that old habits surfaced and an obsession of beautiful ponies and horses has seen Ava work her way through the showring for almost 10 years.

Glengwin Singer, Nattai Sirocco II and Marconi Chanel were wonderful ponies that carried Ava through the welsh and open rings safely in both Leading Rein and saddle classes. Success at Horse of the Year and Royal Shows fed the competitive spirit quickly and Ava is now a regular fixture on the showring circuit across 3 States.

An integral part of the Halloran & Ginn Showteam, Ava has been extremely fortunate to ride some of the most beautiful ponies in the country….

the magnificent big grey pony, Karlana Opening Night, the exquisite small pony Harrington Park Symphony and his mother, the divine little hunter Harrington Park Peek A Boo to name a few. Recently, Ava made her debut in the galloway ring on the super moving big Galloway, Wellan Special Edition.

Earning her stripes as a really great little competitor, Ava was bestowed the honour of being awarded the 2013 SHCV Joanne Memorial Sportsmanship Award. Whilst there are so many “major” wins and thrills Ava has experienced, perhaps her most memorable and rewarding would have to be being sashed 2013 Grand National Champion Junior Rider on her very special pony “Harley” (aka Karlana Opening Night).

Important people that have helped Ava along the way include, Sylvia McLachlan, Gitte Donvig, Sue Richie, Raymond Butler, her parents Peter & Alannah, Sarah Ginn and her regular coach, Jason James.

Ava is so excited to be part of the Show Ring Classified team and realises how lucky she is to have industry supporters that believe in her. Ava would also like to acknowledge:

Bombers Bits Australia – www.bombersaus.com
James & Son Feeds - www.jamesandson.com.au
Walkenny Park Herbs – www.walkennypark.com.au

Champion Junior Rider
Sydney Royal 2014
Photo credit: Allira Fontana