April Rider of the month

Rider of the Month – TifAndy Naylon-Melki

This month we are excited to shine the spotlight on TifAndy Naylon-Melki, a 17-year-old senior rider from Dural Pony Club, Zone 23.

TifAndy has been riding for eight years and has already built an impressive list of achievements across both Pony Club and open competition. Her recent highlights include being named Reserve Champion C Grade at the State Showjumping Championships, Champion Under 17 at the Zone 23 Jamboree, Dural Pony Club Showjumping Day Champion C Grade, and taking part in Pony Club NSW State Camp Formal Gymkhana. These results reflect her dedication, consistency, and love for the sport.

TifAndy currently competes in showjumping and formal gymkhana with her horse Lakota Braveheart, and it is clear she has a real passion for developing her skills across different disciplines. Whether she is out in the ring competing or enjoying time with her horses at home, horses have been a huge part of her life.

When asked about her all-time favourite horse, TifAndy said it would always be Nik, Prince Nicholi, her 15.1hh flea-bitten grey Arab Crabbet gelding. She describes him as the most honest horse you could ever meet. Nik took her from not even cantering to competing for Area 1 at Sydney Royal twice, which makes him a very special horse in her journey. But like many unforgettable horses, Nik also has plenty of personality. He is known for being cheeky, opening gates to take himself for a walk, and even offering his knee for a fist bump before dinner.

One of TifAndy’s most memorable horse stories happened on a trail ride with her mum. The pair decided to explore a different track near home, only to end up in a completely different suburb. When they reached a gate the horses would not go through, they had no choice but to turn around and ride all the way back. Six hours later, after travelling up and down hills, they finally made it home just as the sun was almost setting. It is the kind of adventure horse riders never forget.

Outside of riding, TifAndy enjoys drawing and art, loves eating pasta, and says her favourite movie is How to Train Your Dragon. When she finishes school, she hopes to become an electrician.

In the equestrian world, TifAndy says she is inspired by David and Jemima Gardener. She admires their determination, their success as games riders, and the way they have produced such talented ponies. For TifAndy, they show what is possible when you truly put your heart into chasing your dreams.

Pony Club NSW congratulates TifAndy on her achievements and wishes her all the best for the future. We look forward to seeing what she and Lakota Braveheart accomplish next.

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