Young Rider - Matt Freiberg

As seen in the June 2019 issue of Horse Deals.

Age: 19

Lives: North East Victoria, in Benalla.

Education/occupation: Equine Trainer and Coach.

Family history with horses? Growing up in Rye on the Mornington Peninsula made it rather hard to have horses in our small beach home. My passion for horses began when I was very young, begging my dad to take me to the local trail riding facility ‘Gunnamatta Trail Rides’ where I used to get my dad to lead me around on one of their ponies. My mum grew up around horses and I used to love going through her photo books of her when she was younger with her horses and other farm animals, so it was then we decided to move to the country. From then on with the support of my mum and dad I was lucky enough to get my first horse.

What age did you start riding? I first started riding at the age of seven, going and having lessons at the local trail riding club before moving to Benalla in 2010. From then on I never left the saddle! Getting my very own horse meant I could never wait to get home from school and go ride. Attending local cutting clinics with Max McTaggart is where I gained lots of knowledge and friendships. Max is a member of the AQHA Hall Of Fame, recognised for his input to our industry as a breeder, coach, and trainer.

Tell us about your first pony. My first horse was a 14.2hh Quarter Horse gelding named Chucky, which is the reason I have the love for the Quarter Horse that I have now. From teaching me how to ride and care for a horse, he certainly was my ‘unicorn’ who kept me safe and gave me the most enjoyment I’ve ever had. Chucky now lives a semi-retired life, being my lesson horse for any new riders just starting out, with his forgiving and patient personality.

What was your first competition? My first competition was back in 2012 at my local affiliate Big Valley Quarter Horse Association where I was flooded with encouragement and support. Chucky and I came home with a neck full of ribbons and a weekend I’ll never forget.

How would you describe yourself? I’m a bit of a perfectionist, always looking to challenge myself and better my skills, but I also love to laugh and have fun with the people around me.

You’ve already made your mark on the world stage attending the 2018 American Quarter Horse Youth World Cup. What did you learn from competing in America? Competing at the YWC was certainly one of the best moments of my life! Working with some of the best clinicians in the world and making international friendships with other youth who all share the same passion. Competing on horses we didn’t have much time to get to know before stepping into the ring to represent our country was definitely a great learning experience. Youth World Cup taught me at the end of the day the connection and partnership between you and the horse was the main thing that mattered, and just putting in the best effort you could.

And to come away with Overall High Point Trail and Reining Rider, how did that feel? Coming home with two overall high point awards was such a privilege to be able to bring them home for team Australia. I honestly couldn’t have done it without the support of my fellow teammates.

Tell us about Somejustlike To Smooch and your journey with him. Buying Somejustlike To Smooch in December 2016 from Jayes Park, with the guidance of Kate Elliott at Breakoday Quarter Horses and Lana Kelderman, was where my dreams came true. He is affectionately known as Rabbit for his unusual white face markings. From breaking in, training and showing Rabbit, it’s safe to say he has given me more than I could have dreamed of in the past three years.

Who are the other horses in your current show team? I have been very privileged to have some other great show horses in my team, from 2yo led horses to finished senior ridden horses, that all have different personalities and talents.

You’ve kicked off the year with success across the board. What has been your proudest moment so far? By far my proudest moment was winning the NPHA 3yo Western Pleasure Futurity back in May 2017 with Rabbit. Since then, winning the KCS Summer Sizzler Junior Horse Western Pleasure Derby and at the Australian Quarter Horse Associations National Championships taking out the Junior Horse Western Pleasure National Title. I’m also proud to have presented some other horses in the team to other State and National Titles.

How do you manage multiple rides at shows, especially with the preparation involved? It can be hard work, but luckily for me I have some great horse owners who all step in to help when it comes to show time. Also putting in the extra practice at home to ensure you’re as prepared as can be, come show time.

What do you enjoy about campaigning horses for clients? The thrill of my job is watching both horse and riders develop and reach personal goals and have fun while doing it.

What is the secret to your success? Choose a job you love and you’ll never have to work a day in your life!

Share a typical day in your life. It starts off with a morning coffee before going and feeding the animals and checking my lesson schedule. Once all the horses have had their breakfast I begin to ride and work with the horses for the outcome of horse and owner, and for any preparation the horse may need for an upcoming show it may be attending.

Who’s your idol? Reid Thomas, a trainer and coach in the USA. I’ve recently spent time with Reid for personal development, bettering my skills as a trainer and coach and I look forward to returning over our offseason during winter.

Who is your coach and what are their best words of advice for you? Kate Elliott who has been my past employer and who I participated in a three-year internship with, and her daughter Lana Kelderman who gave me opportunities and knowledge that has led me to where I am now. Their best advice - stay true and connected.

How do you manage the highs and lows of the sport? As with most sports, it has highs and lows. Our sport within the Australian Quarter Horse Association is very much like one big family, and everyone is always happy to help a friend in need. I believe stay humble, work hard and have fun because at the end of the day we do it for the fun.

What’s your most embarrassing show moment? I used to get extremely embarrassed when I’d be out there showing and forget my pattern, but as I’ve got more experience and learnt how to control my nerves, I’ve gotten a lot better at staying on course.

What are your future plans? My goal is to continue to grow my business and to have as much of a positive impact on our sport and industry as I can.

What do you like to do outside of horses? I don’t really take interest outside of horses as it’s what I live and breathe, but occasionally I like to go camping and do water sports like skiing, fishing, jet skiing, etc. and spending time with family.

Can’t live without? Apart from horses, I couldn’t live without the support of my friends, family, and colleagues.

3 things we don’t know about Matt Freiberg?
1. I LOVE ice cream.
2. I would turn down a social outing to be with my horses.
3. I love seeing people happy and exceeding their dreams.

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