Dunstan High School student Jake Henderson’s silver medal success at the World Mounted Games Team Championships in Australia earlier this month feels like a “big blur”. 

After being inducted into the Dunstan High School (DHS) sports hall of fame for representing New Zealand and coming home with a silver medal, his sights are on Italy for next year's world championships.

“[The silver] hasn’t sunk in just yet. Our team only had four trainings together, we were all really focused and nervous.”

Mounted games is a five person relay on horseback, involving agility, hand eye coordination, technical accuracy and horsemanship.

Jake (17) said making the team for the world championships was his main goal. 

“I surprised myself and a lot of people . . . but I’ve been training a lot to keep myself and my horse fit.”

Jake in action at the Werribee Park National Equestrian Centre, Melbourne. PHOTO: Supplied 

His mother Lana said she was really proud of his achievement. 

“Jake’s sister, Caitlyn has been his main training partner and they’re both very serious about competing.”

Participants at the world champs were Australia, England, France, Germany, Scotland, Sweden and the United States.  

The gold went to Australia, which had the home advantage of having their own horses, and third went to England.

Along with jumping on and off a horse at speed, selecting the fastest line before the game starts is critical and pony management and welfare is another key factor.

“Riders have different strengths . . . and horses have their own strengths as well." 

He thanked DHS for supporting him with travel costs, the under 18 NZ team coaches Paul Johnston (Roxburgh) and Sue Zydenbos (Christchurch) and Wayne and Michelle Harrex who got him into the sport and have been instrumental in supporting it in Central Otago.

Michelle, Caitlyn, Jake and Wayne. PHOTO: Supplied 

Jake started riding horses at seven and has been involved in Otago, Southland and Clyde Pony Clubs since he was 10. 

He said his mates have taken the time to learn about and understand the lesser-known sport and have come to respect it. 

In January 2024 Jake will be taking up an apprenticeship at Dunstan Motors and when he’s not working you’ll find him with the horses, or helping out at Clyde Pony Club.