The Sunday Mail
Brighton Zhawi
SHOWJUMPER Brianagh Clark is living up to her “Breezy” nickname ahead of the Youth Olympics Games.
The 17-year-old Chisipite Senior School student will be part of the mix when the Youth Games come to life in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in two weeks.
And Clark is cool, calm and collected having dealt with her big stage nerves at last week’s World Jumping Challenge in Uzbekistan.
The Zimbabwean placed a commendable 13th at the world showcase but more importantly emerged from the competition a more assured showjumper.
“It was more than a dream come true for me,” said Clark.
“Sadly I did not make the finals, but I carried on to compete in the farewell competition of which I came third, which meant I came 13th in the world jumping challenge finals.
“Representing my country was a very proud moment and to be a part of the World Jumping Challenge in Uzbekistan is a memory I will not forget.
“When I first arrived I was very intimidated. There are only 22 riders invited from across the whole world, but it soon became more comforting as we began to meet each other and make friends from all over the world.”
The YOG will run from October 6 to 18 and Clark knows what to expect ,having rubbed shoulders with the best at the World Challenge.
“This World Challenge experience has undoubtedly helped me prepare for the Youth Olympics, it has prepared my whole mindset for what is yet to come…you have to be mentally fit.
“Having to ride the horses supplied to you, meeting new people and getting to a new environment can be a lot of fun but can also be very stressful, but you have to overcome your fears.
“I feel that by having this preparation, I am ready to move forward. I know roughly the exact format the competition will take, it should not be as intimidating. I will therefore be a stronger competitor and have the ability to show my full strength and ability in the sport,” she said.
Clark is getting used to the pressure that comes with national duty.
“Riding for your country means expectations are high,” she said.
“You have to be able to push yourself, teach yourself through tough experiences and remind yourself what you are riding for.
“But I wouldn’t be able to do all this if it wasn’t for the support of my family, friends and sponsors. I would like to give everyone who is following my journey a huge thank you for being such an amazing team in lifting the Zimbabwean flag high.”
