We are thrilled to welcome Sarah Kirk to the HERO team as our newest educator in the Waikato region. With more than 20 years of riding experience and a strong background in producing horses across multiple disciplines, Sarah brings a wealth of knowledge, horsemanship, and enthusiasm to the programme. We’re excited to have someone of her calibre join the HERO team.
Sarah’s equestrian journey began at Otorohanga Pony Club where she quickly discovered a passion for horses. Growing up on a dairy farm, she spent every opportunity riding her pony and attending as many shows as possible. From there, she progressed into eventing and producing her own horses, with her most recent competition horses being her Gisborne-bred Nugget and Standardbred Willow Bay.
Working at Breckon Farms, Sarah has owned two Standardbreds, both bred on the property. Her first was Meantobe, a trotter out of Yankeedoosie with plenty of personality. She was then given Willow Bay, a pacer who was originally intended to become her husband’s station mount before Sarah quickly claimed him as her next show hack.
Willow has proven to be an incredibly versatile horse, happily turning his hoof to everything from leisurely rides and jumping logs around the farm to the show ring. Alongside Nugget, Sarah has competed through to 1* eventing and 1.15m showjumping, with one of her proudest achievements being Nugget’s consistent ability to finish double clear and inside the time. Sarah says he is always a thoroughly enjoyable horse to ride and one that never fails to put a smile on her face.
One of Sarah’s standout achievements with Willow was his first showing season, where he earned a ribbon at every show before heading to Horse of the Year in 2025, placing in the top five across all of his classes—a fantastic result for a horse in his debut season.
Sarah has also competed in the Battle of the Breeds at Cambridge Raceway on three occasions. She enjoys the event not only for the friendly competition but because it highlights just how versatile Standardbreds can be once they leave racing.
As a HERO educator, Sarah is passionate about showcasing the breed and giving retired Standardbreds every opportunity to succeed in their next careers. Whether they’re destined to become pleasure horses, competition mounts or all-round riding partners, she is committed to giving each horse the education and foundation they need to thrive.
