Charli Sabine doesn’t like to do things by halves, and the 2024 Land Rover Horse of the Year Show was no exception. She teamed up with Hesasuperstar to win the Cat B Show Hunter Pony of the Year and slipped out to win the Show Pony of the Year 128cm-138cm, and runner up in the 138cm Paced and Mannered Pony of the Year aboard Windermere Tiara. Charli teamed up with Gundarah Country Road, who she borrowed for the show, to finish runner-up in the 12, 13 and 14-year-old rider class.

The 13-year-old from Pukekohe said it meant absolutely everything to finish the season winning the show hunter title. “I am just pleased I didn’t mess it up and made it happen for him,” she said. “It couldn’t have been a better HOY.” 

Charli has had 14-year-old Hesasuperstar for three years and won a tack room full of rugs, ribbons and trophies, so it was no surprise they took the title with 30 points to spare. 

“It’s really nice to finish off with that win, which has to be my biggest so far.” 

Both Charli and her mum Kirsten Seamer say despite a fantastic season, you never take HOY for granted. “You never go in expecting to win there but they couldn’t have been more amazing,” said Kirsten. “She is very good under pressure and just like to get on with the job at hand. She is a real perfectionist though, so showing and show hunter are both right up her alley.” 

Charli is trained by South Islander Jill Ullrich. 

Unsurprisingly, Charli fills her life with activities and challenges. She events Hesasuperstar when she can and will spend two weeks in Australia riding at the Sydney Royal and Grand Nationals aboard borrowed ponies.  

The Year 9 student isn’t one to let her school work slip either and also loves doing a range of sports including cross country running, athletics and netball.

For full results, head to https://www.evoevents.co.nz/resultClass/2135886027/144/9