We all have a second home.
For some, it may be work.
For Cobram Anglican Grammar School Year 10 student Kasey Caldow and Year 6 student Emily Stone, it is in the saddle on a horse.
The girls recently took part in The Scots School Albury Equestrian Interschool Challenge 2024.
Kasey competed in several events, finishing second in the Secondary 104cm Champion Award and Open 90cm Champion Award.
Emily finished second in the Dressage Preparatory Champion Award and won the 75cm Champion Award.
Kasey said her passion for equestrian riding was gradual and that the best part of doing equestrian competitions was being able to travel and connect with people with a similar passion.
Asked whether equestrian riding was a hard sport, Kasey said it could be tough and takes a long time to master.
Tough is an understatement, with Kasey having fallen from her horse in the past.
She said that often there was no chance to prepare for a fall and you had to hope for the best.
Emily told the Courier that she started riding when she was young, taking it up after seeing a family member thrive in the saddle.
“My sister was riding when I was younger, so I wanted to follow in her footsteps,” Emily said.
Since starting competitive equestrian riding, Emily has taken part in competitions in Werribee and Shepparton.
To achieve her success, Emily practices every night at home as well as taking lessons.
Dedication to her riding is certainly something Emily doesn’t lack and the same can be said for her ambitions in the sport.
“I want to hopefully make it to the Olympics or to a similar competition,” she said.
As for anyone thinking about taking up equestrian riding Emily said they shouldn’t hesitate.
“Just give it a go and see how you go,” Emily said.