Jan Pike and Pinky Aiming for London 2012!

Jan and Pinky training, during the lead up to their first competition - photos from Victorian Para Equestrian Championships 2011 will be uploaded soon!

Further to Horsezone's interview with Paralympian Jan Pike in March, Jan has contacted us to advise that she and her lovely ex-racehorse Pinky, had a very successful event at their first ever Dressage competition together!

Jan and Pinky competed at the Victorian Para Equestrian Championships 2011, which was a combined event with the Hamag Aust YR and Junior Dressage Championships, where she won all her classes and achieved a personal best of 76.8%, which in Jan's words was, "very exciting! Pinky was just amazing, it’s hard to believe that only 11 months ago he was still racing! It was our first Dressage competition together, so naturally I am VERY chuffed." Pinky certainly is a wonderful ambassador for Thoroughbreds off the track and a great example of how they can go on to very fulfilling careers, once their racing days are over.

Following these successes Pinky has qualified and now Jan and Pinky will be the combination they’ll be looking at for London. The first Qualifier for London is being held in September at Tamworth.

Meanwhile, Jan has been invited to attend the British PE Championships in England in July. Unfortunately it will be self funded and she won’t be able to take along her 'dancing partner' Pinky. Jan's Coach, Catherine  Shelley, will accompany her as funds are too limited for her to take a carer, but this hasn't dampened Jan's spirits!  Of her trip to England, Jan says, "I am very excited as it will give Catherine and I a chance to check out the competition for London and also give me the psych advantage of an international event under my belt, if we're selected for London. This is all extremely positive!"

We wish Jan all the best with her trip to England and the continuing journey to London 2012!