Kiama’s Ashleigh Campton is leaving for Tokyo on Monday to be a horse groom and support person for Sharon Jarvis, Australia’s first equestrian to compete at three Paralympic Games.

“It feels kind of surreal, but is super exciting,” says Ashleigh.

“Basically, my job is to make sure the horse is happy the whole time and that everything runs smoothly behind the scenes so that Sharon can just focus on going out there and riding the best that she can.”

Sharon with her coach, Rossie Ryan, and Ashleigh (right)

Going to Tokyo is a great opportunity for Ashleigh, who has been a member of the Kiama Pony Club since she was 14 years old.

“I have been in the Pony Club for nine years now. I got in with friends who had horses and then moved into having my own and never stopped,” she says.

“It feels amazing that I am able to go over with Sharon.

“While I am behind the scenes, to represent the country and to put on that uniform is really special and I’m really excited.”

Sharon Jarvis has previously competed in Beijing 2008 and Rio 2016 for the Dressage events. At these games, Ashleigh will be looking after her horse, Romanos.

“All of the riders have their own grooms going over to the Games with them so I’ll just look after Sharon’s horse and make sure that he is happy and is ready to go,” says Ashleigh.

Ashleigh will fly to Tokyo in mid-August and will be there for just over two weeks for the para-equestrian event.

“The event is spread out over four or five days,” says Ashleigh.

“Sharon will definitely ride twice and if she qualifies, which hopefully she will, then there will be a third day for her.”

The Paralympics Equestrian Events will be on from Thursday 26 August to Monday 30 August.