For Wagga competitor Gracie Goodyer, 10, that dream came true after she won champion girl rider under 12 years.

The win was somewhat of a surprise for Gracie despite the fact she had already earned reserve in 2013, because her preparation was less than perfect.

Just weeks out from the event she was trodden on by a 450 kilogram horse and had to undergo surgery to re-attach her toenail.

This meant Gracie couldn’t ride as much as she would have liked and was walking around in a “moon boot”.

In fact she bought some riding boots that were about three sizes too big just so she could start riding again.

The injury combined with juggling the challenges of going to school and completing homework made getting ready for Sydney a tough task.

Some days she was riding before and after school just to get enough preparation in.

“I could get my own boots back on in time for Sydney,” she said.

When Gracie talks about her ponies and the win her face lights up with enthusiasm.

And when asked if she got nervous riding in front of such big crowds when the stakes were high Gracie says no.

To her riding and showing ponies is something that comes naturally. She is the fourth generation of her family to show at the Sydney Royal Easter Show and has been in the saddle since she was 18-months old.

Little sister Lucy, 8, also enjoyed success at Sydney after exhibiting her pony Ripple Brook Antique to win best buckskin.

Lucy said the show was so much fun and one of the best parts was catching up with friends who also show ponies.

The sisters attend about 14 shows a year and will ride at Bathurst Show this weekend.