Double delight for Paton Simpson at the Pony Club NSW State Titles

"I just wanted to come home with a blue ribbon and managed to come home with two, I was really happy with that," she said.

"The other competitors were some of the most talented riders I've ever seen at a competition; they all deserved to be there."

Riding since the tender age of three, the Kempsey High School student has blazed a trail through the sport, earning dozens of ribbons, medals and the respect of her peers. She was part of a team that came third at the Royal Easter Show, has attended numerous state titles and has competed at the Macksville, Kempsey and Bellingen shows.

"There have been occasions where she has gifted her ribbons to younger riders who have tried really hard but didn't necessarily get the win, she still appreciates when she wins, she just loves the sport and wants to support the younger riders," mother Maryanne Small said.

"We are very proud of her; she is very dedicated to the sport and her horses."

Often joining Simpson on the winner's podium is 'Cheeky', a former racehorse who ran under the name 'Port Command'. They've been riding together for four years, and despite all the success they've had, the eccentric horse frequently tries to steal the show from his riding companion.

"He is a real showman, and loves all the attention; he will help himself to items in your pocket and eat your food. A few weeks ago we were at the Macksville show, and he decided it was play time, so he pulled mum up by the sleeve," Simpson said.

"I ride five different horses, each has their purpose, they can all perform the different tasks in competition, but they each have a specialised category they excel at, 'Cheeky' definitely has the biggest personality though."

After this most recent string of wins, Simpson is setting her sights on reaching the highest level the sport has to offer.

"I really want to make it to the Olympics, I'm too young for 2020, so I'm aiming for 2024," she said.

"Nationals is hopefully the next step, the competition is fierce, and they judge more than just ability, they judge the rider, how they conduct themselves, sportsmanship, and how they treat their horse."

Besides her bid for the Olympics, the 16-year-old also competes every weekend as part Willawarrin pony club, an activity that mother Maryanne says is an excellent way for young kids to spend their time.

"I've found the best part about Pony Club to be the social skills the kids learn; they get to spend time with other children who have similar interests, and they can't be out getting into trouble because they're always training, getting ready for comps and spending all their money on horse equipment," she said.

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