Maya Patterson from Northumbria Tyne and Wear Academy is the latest NAF Shining Star
Friday 12 May 2023
Maya Patterson, from Durham, has been awarded the latest NAF Shining Star accolade. Maya, a member of the British Showjumping Northumbria Tyne and Wear Academy, was nominated for the award by her coach Barbara Anderson.
Maya currently has one pony; 14-year-old 13.1hh Sixpence Posh Totty, whom she has owned for just over two and a half years.
Commenting on Sixpence Posh Totty, who is known as Isla at home, Maya said: “She is an Arab X Welsh pony, and she is such a diva. She adores hunting and going to the beach.”
Following the news that she is the latest recipient of the NAF Shining Star Award, Maya said: “When I first found out I had been awarded the NAF Shining Star Award I could not believe it! It was such a shock to be nominated and win; I was so happy and grateful.”
Last year, Maya said her biggest achievement to date was how much she and Isla had improved with the jumping, resulting in a 5th place finish in the NAF 1* Competition at the British Showjumping Academy Championships, Stoneleigh last August.
The pair were also selected as part of the Northumbria Tyne and Wear Mini Team at the Academy Championships: “It was an amazing experience, with some very competitive classes. We all parked together and the support from our families and Barbara was unbelievable. We even came home with some rosettes and goodies!”
Talking about her aims for 2023, Maya said: “Our aims for 2023 are to jump for the Area 12 Academy at the National Championships again but this time in the Midi teams and to also have a go at the NAF 2 Star Competition!”
Barbara Anderson, Northumbria Tyne and Wear Academy Coach said: “Maya is such a pleasure to coach. She works very hard with her pony and is always helpful, polite and has an amazing positive attitude. She is the most supportive rider to her fellow teammates and is always very encouraging and positive.
“Maya is an absolute credit to the academy and the teams and will be riding in the area team again this year. She will also be competing in the NAF 2 Star Award as she completed in the NAF 1 star award at the Academy Championships last year and was placed fifth.”
Explaining what she enjoys most about being part of the Northumberland Tyne and Wear Academy, Maya said: The best thing about the Area 12 Academy is the support from our coach, Barbara, and the friendly team spirit. Everyone helps and supports each other no matter what. The ultimate goal is to always have fun, and this creates a lovely atmosphere.”
Lisa Field from NAF added: “Maya is extremely deserving of this month’s Shining Star award. It is great to hear about the progress she has made as well as her determination to continue to improve with the support of the academy whilst also taking the time to support her teammates. Well done, Maya!”
The NAF Shining Star Award was introduced when NAF became a British Showjumping Business Partner. The award is for members of a Junior Academy who have shown a great deal of commitment, progression, and outstanding behaviour, along with their riding ability and much more. Riders are nominated by their lead coach, and then judged and awarded by NAF to one person each month.
For further information on NAF follow them on Facebook and Instagram for regular updates and rider stories or visit the NAF website at naf-equine.eu/uk
Further information on the British Showjumping Academies can be found here: britishshowjumping.co.uk/training/Academies-1
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