January 30, 2013 at 5:54 p.m.
Samuels first place gives hint of her huge potential
Samuels first place gives hint of her huge potential
Together, the pair combined their efforts to help Bermuda place second at last weekend's Caribbean Equestrian Association Junior Jumping Competition held at Vesey Street.
Rookie Samuels won the 14 and Under Division with a flawless performance while Lopes finished third in the 16 and Under Division to also stand on the podium.
Despsite finishing as bridesmaids behind winners Jamaica, coach DeCosta gave his riders the proverbial thumbs up.
He said: "I was overly pleased with the way they rode. We had a couple of rails, which I thought were unlucky ones. But that's the nature of the sport and other than that I think both riders should be proud of the way they rode."
DeCosta believes the sky is the limit for Samuels and Lopes.
"I think these are two very promising riders for the future. They just need to stay dedicated," he said.
Samuels first gave glimpse of her enormous potential at last month's Annual Exhibition where she also claimed top honours without hitting the rail.
"Jahdayna seems to be just coming into her own as riders do if they are dedicated enough," DeCosta added. "From now I think it's just going to be upward progression for her.
"She is doing well and riding well and I think her success is going to continue because she is very dedicated."
The Clearwater Middle School student admitted that her achievement surpassed her own expectations heading into last weekend's event.
"I didn't really think I was going to do as well as I did - especially on the horse Damsel Fly - but it ended up turning out well. I was very surprised. I was really proud of myself," she smiled.
Competition
"The competition was very good. .... I was really scared but enjoyed it in the end. It was tough competition and also very close. I actually had to work very hard for it."
Samuels, daughter of veteran Boulevard footballer Jahmah, rates coach DeCosta highly.
"I look up to my horse coach (DeCosta) who has taught me a lot," she said. "I would like to thank Mr. DeCosta and the entire committee and my partner Tyler (Lopes)."
Lopes was also in contention for top honours but endured the misfortune of hitting the rail multiple times riding his own horse.
"Unfortunately Tyler's horse gave the other riders all clear rounds and then gave us some faults when he rode it," explained event chairperson McKeisha Smith. "But it was some great competition that came down to the very last round. The order changed dramatically based on the last round."
Smith also praised Samuels' flawless display belying her tender years.
"It was nothing short of stellar," she said. "Four clear rounds is just unbelievable."[[In-content Ad]]
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