Nikita set for 2011
By TMX Archives on 3rd Dec 10
Nikita Smith, the Fryup 'Pocket Rocket' of a couple of seasons ago, is maturing fast, and the 13-year-old added the 2010 British Ladies Class B Trials crown to her 2008 British C Class title, writes JOHN WATSON
Nikita hails from the picturesque dale of Little Fryup, right in the heart of the North Yorkshire Moors and she grabbed the headlines once again last weekend, by winning the Scarborough District Sports Council award for Junior Sports Girl of the year, raising the profile of trials riding yet again.
Up against sports very much in the public eye, such as swimming, athletics, cricket and football it was an amazing achievement to top the list – but thoroughly deserved.
A pupil of Eskdale School in Whitby, Nikita was nominated by her PE teachers Mrs Caroline Watson and Mrs Scales. They say Nikita remains modest and very quiet about her success and this is why they believe she deserves recognition for her achievements.
Nikita is not only a winner on home soil, she proved a force to be reckoned with in numerous ventures on foreign soil and some impressive riding in Italy, Andorra and Czech Republic.
A keen sportswoman, Nikita attended recent prize presentations sporting a pair of go faster crutches after an ankle injury playing football, with mountain biking, karate and trials keeping the young girl in peak condition.
Now settled in the Ace Trials Team and with local help from the Lonsdale family who run Mini Coaches, it appears to be a busy 2011 looming.
Nikita intends to contest the European rounds again, which means an awful lot of travelling. But, the experience gained by riding abroad amongst other riders of an unknown quality helps inspire confidence.
Don't let the demure, sweet smile fool anyone into thinking she is anything but committed. Under the easy going exterior exists a true competitor, proved in a season long battle with friend and rival Chloe Richardson from Richmond.
Blessed with a marvellous temperament along with an undoubted talent, she also has father Andy by her side. Andy is one of the best minders in the business, but he is now beginning to wonder just how much further he can take her.
Mum, Sally Ann and Nikita's sister Kasey also back her to the hilt and are always there for important moral support.