Oliver Chant, from Alton, has been awarded the latest NAF Shining Star accolade.

Oliver, a member of the British Showjumping Hampshire Academy, was nominated for the award by his coach Claire Reed.

Oliver said: “I was so happy when I found out I had been awarded the NAF Shining Star award – it was a brilliant surprise.

“When I found out Claire had nominated me, I was shocked and felt really proud, but I didn’t expect to actually win the award. It is very exciting and I’m so grateful to Claire and the Hampshire Academy.”

Oliver is currently riding two ponies: his own 148cm gelding Ashwey Patchwork Sparrow, who is known as Patch and he has had for six months, and his sister’s 128cm gelding Bryngwennol Festival, with whom he is aiming to qualify for the 128cm Stepping Stones Final at Stoneleigh in August.

Oliver said: “Patch loves a cuddle, especially when he’s lying down having a rest in his stable, but when I get on him, he springs into life and loves his work. He’s got bags of scope although this means we need to have 8ft stallion fencing to keep him in his field at home!

“We are gradually getting used to each other. I am growing in confidence, and we are competing in 1.10m and 1.15m classes. Recently, we had a great round at Wales and West and got our first placing in a 1.10m class.

“I am hoping to go round some bigger tracks next year and hopefully, one day, be selected to jump for Great Britain’s junior team with the support of the coaches at the Hampshire Academy.

“My dream is to become a professional show jumper and, with the help of training and encouragement, I hope this goal can be achieved.”

Oliver also rides for international rider Georgie Strutton, and has been on the JPL Shetland Racing Team, although recently has decided he wanted to focus on showjumping.

He said: “I just love jumping at British Showjumping competitions and training with the Hampshire Academy. The coaches are really helpful and positive. I love the training days arranged by the academy which are great fun and I have made some lovely friends who share my love of jumping.”