Fifteen-year-old, Rela Ratner of Boerne, Texas and her new partner, Cool Krymsun Zip came away with a big win at the Level 1 Central Championships. Rela and “Splash,” who are under the supervision of Michael Hunsinger, won the Level 1 Championship in the Youth 14-18 Western Riding.
“I’m still getting used to showing him,” Rela stated, who has owned Splash for less than a year. “I was nervous when I went in, but when I trotted off, he felt in the zone. I scored a 218 and it was one of my best goes so far on him. Splash has a super sweet personality, and I have been enjoying learning the all-around events on him.”
This win was very impressive since Rela only started showing two and a half years ago. “My favorite thing about riding and showing horses is the connection and bond I can develop with them.”
Ratner also tells us that she loves working with her trainer Michael Hunsinger because he is “caring, helpful and treats me like his family.”
The teenager also told us that her biggest inspiration is her mother, Tamra. “She has always encouraged me to chase my dreams and try my best. She doesn’t care if I make mistakes or don’t do well. She is always by my side encouraging me.”
Trainer, Michael Hunsinger, who worked for Dave Dellin and Brad Jewett before going out on his own, told us after her win that Rela is “a great kid to work with and is starting to put all the pieces together.”
Hunsinger adds, ”Her western riding run had great rhythm and cadence and it was a lot of fun to watch. Splash is also super-talented and one of my favorite horses.”
Also at the show, Rela and Splash placed eighth in the trail, ninth in the performance halter and twelfth in the showmanship. They still have her favorite class left to compete in…the horsemanship. We wish her the best of luck during the rest of the show.
The Level 1 Central Championships in Oklahoma City continues through Saturday.
CLICK HERE for more coverage from the Level 1 Central Championships.
