ZARA MCDONALD – RISING STAR OF NEW ZEALAND EVENTING

Zara is our youngest Hippo Sponsored Rider at just 14 years old. She is currently living and competing in New Zealand and while she is relatively new on the circuit she has already bagged some incredible achievements! In the interview below she tells us all about her team of horses and what her focus for the coming year will be.

Tell us about your horse.

“I currently have a team of 2 horses. Ngahiwi Makem (Makem) is my main mount – she’s a 16-year-old 16hh bay mare that loves her job as an experienced eventer. My other mount Bizzie Just Chillin (Chilli) is a 4-year-old 14.2hh pinto mare.”

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

“I love eventing because of the adrenaline rush you get when you're out on xc or flying around in the sj ring.”

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

“My proudest achievement in my riding career to date would have to be winning the Mt class at the NZPCA eventing championships 2023.”

Which Hippo Health remedies do you use/love the most?

“My favourite Hippo Health remedies are most definitely Mud & Rain to help keep that horrid mud fever and rain scald away and calm rider to soothe my nerves before I compete.”

What’s next for you?

“I've just finished competing at the Taupo 3 Day Event and I’m hoping to step up to CCN 105 at the start of next season on Makem. On Chilli my goals are to get her out to Woodhill Sands for some grassroots sj this winter.” 

How old were you when you started riding?

“I first started riding at the age of 8 on an RDA pony. We have a farm based in Waimauku, Auckland.”

What is your kryptonite?

“My biggest challenge as a rider is most definitely my nerves before I compete so that's where the Calm Rider remedy comes in handy.”

Follow Zara on  Facebook and  Instagram.

Read about other Hippo Sponsored Riders

• Hope Taylor Beerling – Working and Competing in the USA
• Carys McCrory – A Passion For Cross Country
• Lucy Cochrane – Head Competition Rider & Competing in Australia
• Cindy Wiffin - Competition Dressage Rider & Judge
• Taylor des Barres Williams – Barrel Racer Extraordinaire
• Hannah Steens- Show Jumper & Hunter
• Annie Baird – Show Hunter Champ / Up & Coming Show Jumper