A young equestrian talent from Coffs Harbour, Tehani Badke, at the age of 15, has achieved a significant milestone by being chosen to participate in the prestigious CSI 2* Puebla International Global Amateur Tour (GAT) in Mexico. This event, scheduled for May, marks Tehani’s debut in international competition, a remarkable accomplishment for the Bishop Druitt College student.

Expressing a mix of excitement and nervousness, Tehani eagerly anticipates the upcoming challenge. Venturing abroad for the first time to compete, she views this opportunity as a pivotal moment in her riding journey. Beyond the thrill of the competition, Tehani looks forward to immersing herself in the Mexican culture, relishing the chance to ride top-tier horses and learn from esteemed coaches in the field.

The unique aspect of the competition lies in the horse assignment process, where each rider will be paired with a horse through a ballot system. Despite the typical time required to establish a strong rider-horse bond, Tehani acknowledges the need to swiftly adapt to her assigned horse, emphasizing the importance of maximizing the horse’s potential during the event.

Preparation has been a key focus for Tehani since learning of her selection, diligently honing her skills under the guidance of experienced coaches. Embracing the value of hard work over innate talent, she remains steadfast in her dedication to success. Drawing inspiration from the wisdom shared by Australian Olympic team Chef de Mission, Anna Meares, Tehani is equipped with valuable insights on managing various challenges associated with elite competition.

While Tehani’s primary discipline in Australia is eventing, her focus in Mexico will center on showjumping, with plans to compete across different heights. As she approaches her sixteenth birthday, Tehani will embark on this international journey accompanied by her supportive family, who have been instrumental in her equestrian pursuits.

Rooted in a deep familial connection to horses, Tehani’s passion for these majestic animals has been a lifelong affair, shaped by generations of horse enthusiasts in her family. Her profound bond with horses reflects a blend of innate affinity and acquired knowledge, highlighting the exceptional understanding and communication shared between rider and horse.

Looking ahead, Tehani harbors ambitions of representing Australia at the 2032 Olympics in Brisbane, drawing inspiration from accomplished athletes who have paved the way before her. As she gears up for the Mexico competition, Tehani is actively engaged in fundraising efforts to support her equestrian aspirations, underscoring her commitment to achieving future milestones in the sport.