Rookie Tara Gower Triumphs at Dannevirke World Cup Qualifier

At the Alabaster Contracting Central and Southern Hawke’s Bay Jumping Show in Dannevirke, newcomer Tara Gower made a remarkable impression on January 6, 2024. Gower, riding her gelding Riverhills Legend, clinched victory in the NZ League World Cup qualifier, showcasing skill and tenacity throughout a thrilling competition.

The event featured a challenging course designed by Heather McDonald, where the outcome remained uncertain until the final jump. Of the seven initial competitors, only Julie Davey and her horse LT Holst Freda maintained a faultless round in the first leg. Gower, a 19-year-old from Matangi, faced stiff competition but delivered a stunning performance that pushed her into the spotlight.

In the second round, Gower and Riverhills Legend, despite not racing at their usual speed, achieved a clear round in 72.05 seconds, accumulating a total of four faults over the two rounds. This impressive feat came with a moment of tension at the double jump, where a slight touch did not bring the rail down. Gower’s strategic approach paid off, as she successfully pressured Davey, who ultimately finished with four faults in 76.32 seconds after a rail fell at the last jump.

Gower attributed her initial four faults in the opening round to inexperience, reflecting on the bond she shares with her horse. “It was a rider error,” she explained. “He just didn’t realise the jumps were that big, and I didn’t tell him either.” Gower’s determination shone through as she noted that time would not be an issue for her and Epic, as Riverhills Legend is affectionately known.

The competition was notable not just for Gower’s victory but also for the resilience shown by competitors. Davey, who was recovering from a stomach bug earlier in the week, demonstrated her experience but ultimately fell short of victory. Sophie Scott finished third with Equine America Benrose Stellar, while Fran Corich and Bannockburn ECPH took fourth place, both finishing on eight faults.

Gower’s family was present to support her, including her mother, Sue, who bred Riverhills Legend. “This means everything to me and my whole family,” Gower expressed. “It feels like I have been able to prove to myself and others how special my horse is, and he has so much more to give.” The pair have developed a close relationship over time, with Gower noting, “We are like siblings really.”

Under the guidance of coach Jeff McVean, Gower has made significant strides in her riding. She acknowledged McVean’s role in helping her maintain composure throughout the competition, stating, “Today was just him and I learning how to jump the bigger heights together.”

Looking ahead, Gower is eager for upcoming competitions at Takapoto and Mana Stables, expressing her ambitions to join the senior trans-Tasman team. “I would like to do some World Cups in Australia and then come back for our next season,” she said.

The next event in the NZ League World Cup series will take place at Takapoto Estate on January 17, 2024.

The results of the ClipMyHorse FEI World Cup (NZ League) Qualifier are as follows:
1. Tara Gower (Cambridge), Riverhills Legend;
2. Julie Davey (Hastings), LT Holst Freda;
3. Sophie Scott (Palmerston North), Equine America Benrose Stellar;
4. Fran Corich (Auckland), Bannockburn ECPH;
5. Sophie Scott (Palmerston North), Normandy GHP;
6. Makenzie Causer (Christchurch), Dolce Del Colle.

Gower’s victory marks a promising start to her World Cup journey, and her dedication to the sport is evident as she continues to pursue her equestrian dreams.