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For most Year 10 students, the school holidays mean a well-earned break. For Calrossy Anglican School student Hannah Traynor, they will mean pulling on the green and gold and travelling to the United States to represent Australia on one of the biggest stages in youth rodeo competition.
Following an outstanding year of success in cutting horse competition, Hannah has earned selection in the Australian High School Rodeo Association Cutting Horse Team and will compete at the 2026 American High School Rodeo Association Finals in Lincoln, Nebraska, next month.
It is a remarkable achievement for the talented young rider, whose dedication, determination and love of horses have helped her rise through the ranks of the sport in just a few short years.
"I have been riding horses ever since I could walk," Hannah said.
"I started off show riding with my sister and my mum, while Dad would drive us around Australia for shows. I then went on to campdrafting about four years ago and loved every minute of it."
Hannah's introduction to cutting came when her mother purchased a horse named Metal As Anything .
"Mum bought a horse named Metal As Anything who was a cutting horse. I loved the idea of cutting and when my trainer, Hugh Miles, gave me the opportunity to have a go, I have never looked back. This will be my third year competing in cutting and I have never been so addicted to anything in my life."
That passion has translated into an exceptional year of results. Hannah was named Senior Youth Champion and Reserve Champion at the Peel Valley Cutting Club Show, claimed the $7,500 Non Pro Championship at the NCHA National Finals, won Senior Youth Champion at the Australian Quarter Horse Association Q26 Show, became an Amateur and Limited Classic Finalist at the NCHA Futurity and secured another Senior Youth Championship title at the prestigious NCHA Futurity.
For Hannah, the appeal of the sport goes beyond competition.
"The thing I enjoy most about the sport is that if you work hard at it, you will get the results," she said.
"The people in the sport are always willing to share their knowledge and I am so grateful for how supportive the trainers are to the youth riders."
Her success at the NCHA National Finals secured selection in the Australian High School Rodeo Association team, where she will join four boys and four girls from across the country to represent Australia on the international stage.
"Representing Australia is something I'm so excited about," Hannah said.
"It is a crazy opportunity to be so lucky to compete in another part of the world. We have a full team of four boys and four girls who are very talented riders."
Adding to the unique experience, Hannah will ride a horse generously provided by an American family, continuing a long-standing tradition of hospitality within the cutting horse community.
"On the trip I am looking forward to meeting new people and having the best time," she said.
"Also riding a new horse, as when we go over there the Australian team borrows horses from very kind Americans."
Behind every successful rider is a strong support team, and Hannah is quick to acknowledge those who have helped her along the way.
"I would never have started cutting without my parents. They have always backed me and supported me and have always taught me that you should support your family," she said.
"My trainer, Hugh Miles, has been so kind to teach me as much as he can. He helps me at shows and after school, and on my different horses it can be tricky, but Hugh has taught me how to manage between them."
While the opportunity to compete internationally is exciting, Hannah's focus remains firmly on learning, improving and making the most of the experience.
"Some goals for this competition are to do the best I can and take up as much knowledge as they teach me while I'm there," she said.
"I am hoping to ride consistently and learn from every run."
As Hannah prepares to head to Nebraska, the entire Calrossy community will be cheering her on. Her selection is not only recognition of her outstanding achievements in the arena, but also a reflection of the hard work, perseverance and commitment that have helped her turn a passion for horses into an opportunity to represent Australia on the world stage.









