Creighton Wins Junior Sport Star of the Year

 

Teenage showjumper Gemma Creighton has won Equestrian Queensland’s  Junior Sport Star of the Year Award for the second consecutive year running.

The under 21 ambassador for the sport, beat eight other finalists for the top prize. The Junior Sport Star of the Year Award recognises competitors representing the sport at a state level or higher during 2011. 

Finalists had to meet strict criteria for nomination, including demonstrating leadership, sportsmanship, being an excellent representative of their sport and overcoming any difficulties along the way.

Gemma said she was surprised to receive the award.

"I didn’t expect it that’s for sure, especially because I’d won it last year.  But regardless I’m thrilled," she said.

Like any professional horse rider the Creightons face large ongoing overheads to stay in their sport.  Weeks of rain have made things tight and Gemma is currently looking to sell two of her top horses to stay afloat.

“The rain has knocked us around a bit financially. But you have to make these tough decisions to stay in this sport, and I have plenty of young horses to focus on training,” she said.

Gemma was also reserve champion in the Calaza Park and Prydes feed junior series.

Gemma’s father and coach Guy Creighton also took home an award. The dual Olympian was recognised for Service to Junior sport, and was also nominated for Coach of the Year.

2011 was just another successful and exciting year for Gemma as she pushes to reach her goal of competing in the Olympics. With a laundry list of achievements and awards, including being selected as a 2011 Australian Youth rider, under 21 ambassador and winning a multitude of national and international competitions and championships, Gemma Creighton is a star on the rise in Australian Equestrian. 

Story: Meryn Cooper