ANNIE BAIRD – SHOW HUNTER CHAMP / UP & COMING SHOW JUMPER

We caught up with our newest Hippo Sponsored Rider, Annie, to talk about her number one boy Maximus Z, her love of show jumping and what she’s been focusing on since winning the 2023 National Junior Show Hunter title.

Tell us about your horse

“My number one boy is Maximus Z (Max), a 9yo Voltaire II/GT Jake gelding. Our family has had him since he was a 4yo. He was quite quirky and it's been a bumpy road, but we've established a great partnership. Aside from jumping, we enjoy occasionally competing in Dressage at Level 3 and we just made a hunting debut this season, which was a blast! 

“Max is the definition of a Golden Retriever, he's the biggest smooch and just loves spending time with people, whether it's on a quiet hack, going for a graze while I read, or cuddles while he's sleeping in his stable at a show. He’ll do anything for a snack - particularly crackers or coffee, but will indulge in anything you have at the time!”

What’s your favourite discipline to compete in, and why?

“I love the challenge of showjumping. It really tests your limits, but I've learned valuable skills and become very determined because of it! There's a lot of trust involved between you and the horse which builds great connection, and I really enjoy being part of their individual journeys.”

What achievement in your riding career are you most proud of?

“Winning the National Junior Show Hunter title was a highlight of last season, but I have a lot of personal achievements I've accomplished along the way - producing horses is a very rewarding experience!”

Which Hippo Health remedies do you use the most?

“Sol Plus is the biggest lifesaver in the summer. It was the first product we tried and still the remedy we use the most over the season! The other staples I love would have to be Mud & Rain for the wintertime and Pine & Pollen during spring, as our farm is surrounded by pine forest.”

What’s next for you?

“I recently had a very special young horse, Southcote Cartesian, join the team so I am really looking forward to producing him over the next couple seasons and seeing what we can do together. I would love to step up and jump some Young Rider classes in the future too!”

How old were you when you started riding?

“I have been riding since before I could walk! I was lucky enough to get a pony of my own, Buttons, for my 1st birthday and he was the best friend any kid could dream of. He lived to the ripe age of 42 and taught so many kids to ride throughout his lifetime. I was completely horse crazy and spent every minute I could with my horses, not much has changed!”

Aside from horse riding, what else do you like to do?

“In my spare time I enjoy anything creative. I do a lot of art, sewing, design and music for example, but I like to try lots of new things!” 

What’s your favourite food?

“My all-time comfort food would have to be a home cooked pasta bake!”

What is your guilty pleasure?

“Honestly, I'm a bit of a foodie. I'm forever cooking meals, baking and trying new recipes - I spend way too much time in my kitchen.” 

Follow Annie’s journey on Instagram and @annierbnz on TikTok

Read about other Hippo Sponsored Riders

• Hope Taylor Beerling – Working and Competing in the USA
• Carys McCrory – A Passion For Cross Country
• Zara McDonald – Rising Star of New Zealand Eventing
• Cindy Wiffin – Dressage, Judging Dressage & Raising Three Boys
• Lucy Cochrane – Head Competition Rider & Competing in Australia
• Taylor des Barres Williams – Barrel Racer Extraordinaire
• Hannah Steens – Show Jumper & Hunter