The phrase, ‘From little things, big things grow’, has certainly rung true for horse riding Medowie locals.

Last year, Medowie vet and accomplished equestrian rider, Ilona Hudson competed in the fourteenth European Maccabi Games held in Berlin.

It was the first time Australia entered an Equestrian (dressage) athlete in these games.

At these game, due to the prohibitive costs of transporting a horse from Australia to Germany, Ilona had the exciting, if not very daunting, prospect of having to borrow a horse with only 30 minutes to learn to prepare the horse for the competition.

Dr Hudson told News Of The Area, “I was living every young girl’s dream by having the opportunity to compete, riding dressage, overseas.”

From this amazing journey, Dr Hudson was able to tell of her experiences with others in Medowie, and in particularly to one highly accomplished young dressage rider, Serena Ireland (now 18).

And now, on Ilona’s recommendation Serena was given the opportunity the work in Hamburg, Germany with a horse stud, learning dressage in the professional environment of Europe.

Due now to come back to Australia to begin a degree in International Business, Serena has had a difficult decision to make.

“Come back to Australia and begin her degree, the start of her career; or stay in Germany as just been offered a professional riding and assistant coach position for 12 months.”

Medowie will not be getting their champion rider back just yet, as 18-year old Serena has decided to put university on hold in order to pursue her horse riding dreams.

Dr Hudson said, “University will always be there, but this opportunity only comes along once in a lifetime.”

Medowie looks forward to welcoming back Miss Ireland in 12 months’ time, unless of course another exciting opportunity keeps her away for longer.

The Maccabi games are held every four years and are for Jewish and Israeli (regardless of religious background) athletes to compete.

By Heather SHARP