Northern Territory Institute of Equestrian Sport

Recognising Rider Excellence:
🌟 Emily Andrews 🌟

Growing up on remote cattle stations, horsemanship wasn’t just a hobby — it was a way of life. And Emily comes from a long line of great horsemen! Skill, feel, timing, and stock‑sense were woven into her childhood, and that foundation shows in every ride she produces today. Working with Emily has been a privilege; when natural talent meets genuine work ethic, coaching becomes easy.

Emily is the definition of a quiet achiever, but when it’s time to do business, she delivers. She rides with a soft, educated feel, paired with the kind of bravery you simply can’t teach. Give her a bold horse and the pair become electric — confident, forward, and utterly compelling to watch.

For the past three years, Emily has been a valued member of my Jump Team. In that time, she has grown into a polished, competitive show jumper with a calm head and a fierce determination. Her professionalism under pressure is remarkable; she never rattles, never rushes, never loses her focus.

At the recent DSJC event, Emily put on an absolute masterclass in jump‑off riding — sharp lines, smart decisions, and ice‑cool ex*****on — to win the 90cm class and earn the coveted DSJC Round of the Day. It was a performance that showcased exactly who she is: brave, thoughtful, and brilliantly competitive.

And her season didn’t stop there.

Emily has earned selection to represent the Northern Territory at the National Interschools Championships in Werribee, Victoria, coming up in late September 2026. It’s a huge achievement and a testament to her consistency, grit, and exceptional horsemanship.

Emily will be an outstanding ambassador for the NT — riding with grace, humility, and the quiet confidence that has become her trademark.

We are incredibly proud of her and will be cheering loudly for one of our finest NT exports.

Recognising Rider Excellence:
🌟 Matilda “Tilly” Dutton 🌟

Affectionately known as Tilly, she is the kind of young rider who lifts everyone around her. Kind, encouraging, and always championing for others.

At just 11 years old, Tilly isn’t driven by beating anyone else. Her motivation comes from a genuine desire to improve her horsemanship, refine her riding, and be the best partner she can be for her horse.

This season tested that commitment. When her own mount was sidelined for most of the year — a blow that would rattle even experienced riders — Tilly regrouped, refocused, and stepped up on her dad’s horse without hesitation. It wasn’t the plan, and it wasn’t the dream, but adaptability is one of the greatest lessons in the horse world, and she embraced it with maturity far beyond her years.

She put in the hard yards at training:

• Canter leads — working until she could reliably produce both
• Contact — improving feel, softness, and connection
• Sit trot — the toughest of all!

Tilly showed that what you put in at training is what you get out in competition.

And her efforts were rewarded.
She triumphed at the NTSHA Show, earning Champion Rider Under 18 Years 🏆

This result reflects not just skill, but resilience, perseverance, and the unwavering support of her family.

We are incredibly proud of you, Tilly (and little QH mare, ‘Hope’ ❤️)

Recognising Rider Excellence:
🌟 Daly Smith 🌟

Daly Smith has earned a place in the NT Mounted Games Team, a huge achievement for any young rider — and one that speaks volumes about his talent, commitment, and character. The NT team will go head‑to‑head with the best young riders from across Australia at the National Championships in Darwin, 11–12 September 2026.

Daly’s journey has been one of steady growth and genuine passion. Beginning in the NTIES program at just nine years old, he has developed into a confident and competitive rider. Now 14, Daly is a capable show jumper competing up to 90cm, demonstrating skill, bravery, and a strong work ethic every time he enters the arena.

What truly sets Daly apart is who he is beyond the saddle:
A Territory rider through and through, Daly is known for his respect, kindness, and true sportsmanship. A country lad who is grounded, hardworking, and humble.

Daly is a wonderful ambassador for the NT — a rider who represents not just skill, but the values we are proud to see in our young athletes.

The Territory will be cheering him on!

🌟 Sophie Carlton: A Season Painted in Gold 🌟

With her old reliable OTT Thoroughbred Taquito, Sophie has delivered a show campaign that can only be described as outstanding. Together, they’ve claimed multiple Championships across the season, proving once again that a good Thoroughbred with heart can shine just as brightly as any purpose‑bred mount.

And now, Taquito has added the ultimate jewel to his crown:
TRNT Champion Novice Dressage Horse for 2026.

But Sophie wasn’t done.

Her NTIES youngster Fat Amy, now proudly owned and produced by Sophie, stepped confidently into her first season of competition — and wasted no time making her mark.
Fat Amy has taken out:

TRNT Champion Preliminary Dressage Horse for 2026.

Two horses.
Two levels.
Two Championship titles.
One rider whose season has been nothing short of golden.

Congratulations Soph!





📸 Sophie and Fat Amy

🌟 Elementary Champions: Kirsten Leslie & “Roozy” 🌟

Kirsten Leslie and her Waler gelding Dryandri Toru, affectionately known as Roozy, were crowned Elementary Champions at the Darwin Dressage Club Championships — a title that reflects far more than a single weekend of competition.

Their journey has been one of steady progression, built on hard work, consistency, and Kirsten’s unmistakably kind, gentle approach to horsemanship. Roozy is a testament to what thoughtful training can produce: a horse who trusts, listens, and rises to the occasion.

Kirsten and Roozy have climbed the ranks, proving that excellence comes from showing up, doing the work, and nurturing the partnership every step of the way. We are incredibly proud of everything they’ve achieved.

And now, they set their sights on the Alice Springs Masters Games in October — ready to take on the next challenge!

⭐️ Recognising Rider Excellence ⭐️

Kelli Jasinski and ‘Go West Ranger’, crowned Novice Reserve Champions at the Darwin Dressage Club Championships - these two continue to prove they know their job.

Kelli’s ride was sharp and focused, adding yet another strong result to a partnership that’s become very familiar with the winners circle.

Now, the sights shift to the Alice Springs Masters Games in October, where this combination will no doubt bring the same determination and polish.

Congratulations, Kelli — a fantastic achievement and a brilliant momentum-builder heading into the next big challenge.

Kevin in his little unicorn 🦄 costume 😂 the kids loved it, the horses not so much 😂😂😂

FOUND and safe ❤️