My mother and step-dad bought me a great beginner's pony and I named her Royal Spirit, because this was the beginning of my dream.

In 1998, I won our local beginner championship on Royal Spirit. Beth Underhill presented me with my trophy and autographed a picture of her and her jumper, Monopoly for me. The only problem was, Royal Spirit is a great beginner pony, but not 'A' circuit material. An 'A' pony which is ready to show, costs over $10,000 and we certainly couldn't afford one!

We began what my mom calls " showing on a shoestring".
1.She found 'Bayview Better B Sharpe' (called Dylan at home) by answering an ad for a pony for lease. For a small monthly fee, we had a pony that needed a lot of work, but had enough talent to go on the 'A' hunter/jumper circuit.
2. She decided that I should have a coach besides my mother, so she selected Jeff Rundie. Jeff is very young, but talented and easy to work with. He was willing to coach me at a rate my mother could afford.
3.We arranged to sleep and board at the home of the Dylan's owner, Helen, when we went to shows. This saved us a lot of money.

On Tuesday, October 12 we found out that the 11 top ponies in Ontario were accepted for the Royal Winter Fair and we were number 11!

The Royal Winter Fair only accepts 15 ponies from Canada in each pony division (small, medium and large). My mother had me mail the entry form myself and then we both held our breath.

Tuesday, October 12 we found out the great news. The 11 top ponies in Ontario were accepted for the Royal and we were number 11!

It was a tough road, and everyone worked very hard to get this inexperienced rider/pony combo to the top, but we made it.

We won a third place ribbon and I loved riding with all the pros! Dylan went back to his home in November, since I have outgrown him, but a new dream will begin.

I want to train my new pony, three-year-old 'Touched By an Angel' for the 'A' hunter/jumper circuit. Her stable name is Cinnamon and she is bigger than Dylan. I will use the money to buy equipment to fit Cinnamon.

Royal Spirit was put to sleep the day before I found out that I had been awarded this grant. She had a tumour and was in a lot of pain. I am greatful to her for giving me a great start. Thanks to all at Nike and CMWS for this award!

Katie Veinot