Kirstin "Kirst" Beaven
BIO: Ross has known 20 year old Kirst since she was a “wee one”. Her family were based on a farm in Culverden, North Canterbury – just down the road from Ross’s parents farm. Judy, Ross’s mum, taught Kirstin to ride on her ponies before she progressed to horses, when Ross decided to take over the training reins. Kirstin jumped at the opportunity to fly to Australia and ride with NZHorses.com during her school holidays when she was 14 years old. “I have had the opportunity to watch this young lady develop into an accomplished rider. She has come a long way since she was 14!” jokes Ross. One could say she was hand picked for the job from a young age!!!
Kirst has been part of the NZHorses.com team since October 2010, and shares the role of rider and stable manager with Samantha.
ASSETS: Having spent much of 2010 riding flighty and unpredictable Thoroughbred race horses, Kirst has developed a rare and valuable patience and understanding of young horses. She is often spotted patiently schooling a young horse on the arena, or taking her time to reassure an uncertain newcomer. Always smiling and easy going, Kirst brings a calmness and quiet confidence to a sometimes chaotic NZHorses.com team!
FAVOURITE HORSE: Without a doubt the gangly 5 year old Cesann (“Cecil”) has captured Kirst’s heart. She spends a lot of time working on his fitness and flat work to help strengthen the big horse. Another special favourite is imported mare Rivierra Van Het (Rivy) who Kirstin competes in 1.25m classes – with much success! These two are a match made in heaven and have quickly formed a competitive partnership, already notching up several wins and placings from very limited outings!
Kirstin also has her own horse, Specta Kool (“Smokey”), who she competes in Eventing – her first love. “He is a little older now, but Smokey will always be special,” says Kirstin, referring to the lovely horse NZHorses.com found for her several years ago. The careful quirky little TB gelding has been invaluable in developing Kirstin’s riding skills.
CURRENT COMPETITION LEVEL: Kirst competes at 1* eventing level with Smokey and 1.25m jumper classes with Rivy.
BIGGEST ACHIEVEMENTS:
1.First - 1* Eventing class on Smokey – their first ever 1*!
2.First - NZ National 1.25m Speed class on Rivvy – their second show together!
3.First - 1.10 Ashburton Area Championship Class on AMS Swayze (sold to Nigre Lamb).
BEST TECHNICAL ASSET AS A RIDER : Being an accomplished eventer, Kirst is the star flat rider for the NZHorses.com team. Her soft hands are her biggest technical asset and one that is readily utilised in schooling and training young or sensitive horses.
BEST PERSONALITY TRAIT: Patient and compassionate