Above: Amelia Douglass and Sirius du Granit in the Young Rider Class at the Australian Jumping Championships in 2019.

The transition from Young Rider to Senior competition can be both exciting and daunting. Amelia Douglass, who was a very successful Young Rider, recently made this shift and reflects on her experiences, offering valuable insights for those navigating this important phase in their riding careers.

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Amelia’s final year as a Young Rider was in 2021, with her last Young Rider Class being at the postponed Australian Championships early in 2022 (postponed due to Covid). Looking back, she acknowledges how quickly time has passed since then and how the experiences shaped her current riding journey. 

Above: Amelia Douglass after her first and second placing in the Stal Tops Australian Young Rider Series in 2019.

From a technical standpoint, Amelia found the transition relatively smooth. She explains that the tracks in Young Rider competitions, particularly at prestigious events, resemble those at the Mini Prix level. “If you’re riding successfully in those Young Rider classes, you’re well-prepared to step into the Senior ranks,” she notes. 

Amelia also highlights the importance of supportive mentors and a solid team. With guidance from her experienced coaches George Sanna and Amber Fuller, she was able to gain confidence before fully committing to Senior competition. Having already jumped in a World Cup event also contributed to her readiness.

Amelia does however recall a standout moment at the Australian Jumping Champs in 2023, where her mount Quel Filou 16 delivered a clear round in each class, leaving her feeling competitive at the Senior level for the first time.

Above: Amelia Douglass and Quel Filou 16 at the 2023 Australian Jumping Championships at SIEC.

Additionally, participation in team events, such as the Australian Jumping Teams League (AJTL), provided Amelia with invaluable exposure to Senior riders and the competitive environment. “Interacting with Seniors in practice and during events helped me ease into the Senior level,” she explains. This interaction fostered a sense of camaraderie, allowing young riders to learn from their more experienced peers.

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Transitioning to Seniors brings a shift in mindset. Amelia acknowledges that the competitive atmosphere at the Senior level is different, with heightened expectations and less margin for error. “When you do win at this level, it feels like it’s your win, and everyone is genuinely happy for you,” she shares.

The satisfaction of winning as a Senior, especially after the hard work required to achieve such a result, is incredibly rewarding. Amelia points out that this sense of achievement is amplified by the supportive community of senior riders who celebrate each other’s successes.

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Despite the challenges of moving up, Amelia fondly remembers the camaraderie and fun of her Young Rider days. She reminisces about the friendships forged during competitions and the joy of competing alongside peers. “It was so nice to be competitive but also friends behind the scenes,” she recalls.

For Young Riders, Amelia emphasises the importance of enjoying the journey rather than solely focusing on titles. “Winning Young Rider titles are amazing, but they doesn’t necessarily dictate your future in the sport,” she advises. She encourages Young Riders to embrace their experiences, learn from them, and understand that the sport is ever-evolving.

For those in their final year as Young Riders, Amelia suggests keeping perspective. “The pressure to achieve something significant can be overwhelming but remember that there’s a lot more to the sport beyond Young Riders.” She encourages them to focus on growth and learning, rather than just accolades. 

Above: Amelia Douglass and Quel Filou 16, second in the 2025 Werribee World Cup Qualifier last weekend. Photo credit: Simon Scully Photography.

The friendships and experiences gained during this time are invaluable and often lay the foundation for future success. By maintaining a positive mindset and supporting one another, Young Riders can navigate their transition with confidence and enthusiasm.

As Amelia Douglass continues her journey in the equestrian world, her reflections on the transition from Young Rider to Senior level serve as a reminder of the importance of community, support, and embracing the journey. The lessons learned during these formative years will undoubtedly shape the future of the sport in Australia.

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