A YEAR after a horse riding accident which left her with a broken elbow and a bad case of nerves, Taylor Williams is back in the saddle.
But not only has the seven-year-old got back on her horse, she is now proving she has what it takes to compete in prestigious competitions winning two prizes at the Perth Royal Show yesterday and coming in second for best rider.
Along with her handler, Fiona Gratez, Taylor took home Smartest on Parade and Lead Line Pony.
Her proud parents are thrilled with Taylor’s achievements which will see her travel interstate later this year to compete in national competitions.
“This is an amazing achievement for such a young rider,” Taylor’s father Andy said.
“Through winning these competitions she has now been invited to ride at the Nationals in Melbourne in December and the Grand National in Sydney in March 2015.”
But getting to and from these competitions doesn’t come cheap.
The Williams family will drive to each event with little financial help from outside sources.
“Costs associated with entering these competitions can escalate to about $30,000,” Mr Williams said.
“Most of this is used transporting Taylor’s pony to Melbourne and Sydney.
”We also need to bear the cost for all stabling and feed for the pony, transporting tack and horse gear, accommodation etc.”
It is for this reason Mr Williams is now calling on local businesses for support and sponsorship.
“Every dollar raised will help bring Taylor’s dream of riding for Australia one step nearer,” he said.
“It would be greatly appreciated.”