Launched in 2016, the Barastoc Junior Squad aims to teach, inspire and guide young equine enthusiasts. The squad program assists young riders in gaining the experience needed to support a commercial sponsorship in adulthood, if it is desired or needed, as well as provide a solid understanding of feeding their horses. Each year Barastoc welcomes 20-30 new young riders to be part of the team.
Here, we catch up with current Barastoc Junior Squad member Bethany Dyson…
I’m 16 years old and I have been riding my whole life. I have always loved showjumping and have been lucky enough to have multiple horses to compete. My main showjumper is My Custom Made (known fondly as Junior), an 11-year-old Clydie x Thoroughbred, competing at 90cm-1m.
Favourite memories
My favourite recent memory with Junior was winning Overall Champion at the State Interschools Championship in the 90cm and Reserve Champion in the 95cm Combined Training, qualifying for Nationals.
Big goals
My goal is to continue our journey to Interschool Nationals and do our very best for TeamVic. This will be my first time on the team and I am so excited!
Aspirational riders
I look up to Russell Johnstone. I have been having lessons with him since I could canter and he has taught me so much. He is a great mentor to look up to and I enjoy watching him at competitions — he is so calm and handles situations extremely well and makes it look easy even though it’s not.
I also look up to Clara Propp. She is a social media influencer with a lot of experience in the showjumping world. She lives in America but travels around Europe competing at different high-level events.
Dream horse
If I could ride any horse past or present, I would honestly have to say any horse from Richard Vogel. I love all of his horses, but United Touch S has an incredible scope, as well as his horse Claouldio — they are both stunning showjumpers.
Supported by Barastoc
I am so grateful to be a part of the Barastoc Junior Squad. I love the support and the different opportunities we are so lucky to have, and creating so many friendships along the way.
I feed my horses the best feed from Barastoc, including the Fibre-Beet, Speedi-Beet, Low GI and Competitor.
Find out more about the Barastoc Junior Squad; 2026/27 Junior Squad applications are opening soon.
