Dreams really do come true. And finally, to my pony of a lifetime!
I’m beyond proud to share that my pony, Westaire Tarantella—affectionately known as Louis—and I qualified for HOYS at the Open Ridden Welsh Section B class at the NPS Area 25 Summer Show.
We welcomed Louis into our lives at the end of 2023, purchasing off his lovely owner Emma who has been one of our biggest supporters throughout. It has been my lifelong dream to compete at HOYS, and now, at 23, that dream has finally become a reality—and at the very first qualifier of the season. I truly can’t believe it.
Louis has already made so many dreams come true in such a short space of time, and I honestly feel like I owe him the world (though I’m sure he’d rather I pay him in unlimited treats!). We are a completely home-produced family—my mum, my grandma, and me—doing everything ourselves from our small yard in Devon. Heading to NPS Area 25, we had no expectations. We simply adore Louis and feel grateful for every opportunity to step into the ring with him, no matter the outcome.
After the go-round, we were pulled in top—which, I won’t lie, was absolutely terrifying! But Louis stayed calm, listened beautifully, and gave me the most incredible ride. Then came the nerve-wracking wait… and to our complete disbelief, we were called forward to win the class. I don’t think there was a dry eye around. Having my family and friends there to share that moment made it even more unforgettable.
If there’s one message I hope our journey can give, it’s to all the fellow home-produced riders: please don’t give up. Keep going. Dreams really do come true. And finally, to my pony of a lifetime—thank you, Louis. You’re one in a million.
