Ready for the Royal Show

A North Boyanup woman is hoping to add to her rapidly growing ribbon collection when she enters two of her miniature horses in the 2012 Perth Royal Show.

Sandra Di Giuseppe said the show was always challenging, but she felt better prepared than last year — her first year in the show.

‘‘This year I want to do well,’’ she said.

‘‘Last year was my first Royal Show and I didn’t know what to expect.

‘‘The horse you think wouldn’t win does — it depends on the judge.’’

Ms Di Giuseppe began training miniature horses two years ago after breaking her ankle in a fall from a horse and spending 13 weeks in a wheelchair.

She now trains horses three times a week as well as working full time.

She said while the preparation for the prestigious annual event was a big commitment, she always enjoyed it.

‘‘The hardest thing is giving them all a full body clip, and their feet have to be done and there’s lots of training with halters,’’ she said.

‘‘When you get there it’s more about make up and shine — their coats have to be healthy.

‘‘But the Royal is great fun — you get fireworks every night and when you pen up your horses you can go and look at the rides and shops you missed during the day.’’

Ms Di Giuseppe’s two horses will compete in their respective age classes and the Best Presented category.

For more information on the Perth Royal Show visit www.perthroyalshow.com.au.