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 Matilda Kauppila …
My name is Matilda Kauppila, I am a 17-year-old rider from Kangaroo Island and I have been riding horses for the past eight years, with a strong passion for eventing. There is nothing more I’d rather do.
I currently ride four very different horses, which has given me a wide range of experience and challenges along my journey. My horses include two seven-year-old mares, Hallie (Love Me Tenda), a Warmblood x Thoroughbred mare I have owned for one-and-a-half years and Aurora (Our Domino Queen), an off-the-track Thoroughbred (OTT) I have had for six months; Morton (Storm Brewing), my 19-year-old OTT I have ridden for four years; and Splash (Riverwood Splash), a 16-year-old Warmblood x Thoroughbred I have had for three years.
Each horse is at a different stage in their life, which encourages me to alter my riding and goals to suit their individual needs. My main focus this season is to continue producing them strongly and confidently. I am aiming to step Aurora up to CCN1* level, while also progressing Hallie to EvA 95. Morton will be competing at the Interschool Nationals in the EvA 95 class alongside Aurora, while Splash is currently in rehab, with the goal of bringing him back into eventing when he is ready.
Favourite memories
One of my most memorable achievements so far was competing Splash in our first CCI1* cross country course and finishing double clear, as well as every other start after that! It was a really exciting milestone and a moment that I regularly reminisce.
Aspirational riders and dream horses
I am inspired by many high-level event riders and coaches in Australia who amaze me with their ability and horsemanship. However, I particularly admire Ros Canter and her partnership with Lordships Graffalo. The harmony and ease they show in competitions and training is something I admire and strive for in my own riding. Which is why, if I could ride any horse, past or present, it would be Lordships Graffalo, as he is an incredibly talented and versatile event horse who competes at the very top level of the sport.
Supported by Barastoc
Being part of the Barastoc Junior Squad has been a valuable experience, providing the opportunity to connect with a wider equestrian community, meet new riders, and expand my knowledge of horse care and training. The supportive and positive environment within the squad is something I really appreciate and value.
All my horses are currently fed Barastoc Low GI, which helps maintain steady energy levels and supports their overall condition. They also enjoy the Barastoc ReBalance lick blocks as part of their day-to-day life!
