Riding Beyond Ribbons: The Story of an Online High School Equestrian Team

In the heart of the north island of New Zealand, nestled between rolling fields and on the fringe of a great lake, a monumental “first” for our online high school was witnessed—the forming of our online high school equestrian team. With a mix of determination, passion, and an undeniable bond with their horses, students united from across different pockets of New Zealand’s North Island, to become a proud championship team of student athletes; all while balancing their extracurriculars with their academics.

The Beginning: Aspiring Student Athletes

It all started earlier this year  at the beginning of 2024 when Dean Ms Di Austin recognised three horse-loving students were all based across New Zealand, regularly competing while attending virtual classes. Their names: Hattie, Maisy and Issy.

They dreamed of forming an online high school equestrian team that would not only represent their school but also foster a love for riding and competition. With the guidance of Ms Austin, and with the support of parents alike, the team was born. From the outset, they focused on building camaraderie, honing their skills, and creating a supportive environment for both riders and horses.

“It has been such a pleasure to be a hand in forming CGA's very first sports and equestrian team. Being able to work with such lovely people and connect more with riders in CGA around me has been amazing. Forming the team with my friends has also been great as we are able to collaborate on ideas we have to improve the team, or meetups and things surrounding it,” Hattie reflected.

Balancing Extracurriculars with academics

Attending an online school not only allows the students time to spend at their local riding arenas, but to also connect over similar interests. During training, the air is filled with the sounds of hooves striking the ground, and the laughter of supportive coaches, school friends and family. The riders practice their techniques, learn the intricacies of grooming, and develop a deeper understanding of their equine partners.

These preparation sessions aren’t just about riding; they include lessons on teamwork, resilience, and the importance of patience.

Leading up to the Taupo event, Hattie competed in the North Island Secondary Schools (NISS) Show Hunter Carnival at St Peter's Cambridge, New Zealand, proudly showcasing our CGA colours. Competing in various categories, she earned 4th place in Open 80 cm, 1st in 80 cm Equitation, 1st in Open 90 cm, 2nd in 90 cm Equitation, and 2nd in Open 1m. Competing as part of a composite team with riders from other schools, Hattie helped secure the overall Schools Team title. This event marked Hattie’s first competition representing CGA, and she delivered an impressive performance with Crimson Global Academy engraved on the trophy.

Each small victory in practice built confidence for the NISS Championships to follow in Taupo from 2 September 2024.

The Road to Championships: The Online High School Equestrian Team at Taupo

After months of hard work, the team was ready to compete. Riders took part in a range of disciplines, from Competitive Trail Riding (CTR) to Jumping/Show Hunter, Dressage and Arena venting.

The first competition was an exhilarating experience. Riders donned their crisp CGA uniforms, their horses polished and prepped. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement and nerves as they stepped into the arena, hearts racing.

As the team took their turns, it was clear that the bond and social connection they had formed made all the difference. They cheered for one another, offering encouragement and support as each rider navigated their course.

What stood out to many was the support from school leaders, Mr Mark Phillips together with Ms Austin - both of whom travelled from Auckland and Blenheim to make it to this first ever team competition.

“All the wonderful people who helped organise this have been amazing to work with too, making the whole experience just that much more exciting. It has also been great to be able to connect with other riders and students who share common interests such as Adison, Maisy & Issy.”

For families across Europe considering academic acceleration, CGA offers a flexible and supportive environment where students can study at a pace that suits them, rather than having their courses and class schedules determined by their age.

This approach allows students to excel in their areas of interest and pursue a more challenging academic experience.

Looking for more accelerated classes for your child? Or curious to know what online courses we offer students across Europe? Get in touch with one of our Academic Advisors today and receive personalised support.