Shaina Hammond will compete at the FEI World Vaulting Female Championships for Canada. Get to know her in our mini interview!
1. Please describe yourself in three words.
> Detail oriented
> Ambitious
> Compassionate
2. Who are your team members?
Athlete: Shaina Hammond Coaches: Gabe Aniello & Cambry Kaylor Horse: William || Z Lunger: Maik Husmann Horse Owner: Pauline Riedl
3. How did you experience the qualification process? What were your challenges on the way to the Championships?
This year’s qualification process was so much fun! Although I represent Canada I am currently living in Utah, USA near family. This year I was able to travel back and forth again and received qualifying scores at both US and Canadian competitions. I’m so lucky to have such a great support system from both West Coast vaulters in Canada and my home club Oak Hills in Utah.
4. What was your best (or funniest) vaulting moment?
One of my biggest goals this season was to be able to hit a handstand in my flights. My mechanics coach Gabe Aniello gave me a lot of new drills and strengthening exercises. The first time I hit a handstand in training all my teammates were jumping and cheering! It was really cool moment to see all of that time and work start to pay off.
5. What do you expect from the World Championships 2022? What are your goals?
This year’s championship will be my first time competing in a senior world championship. I’m so grateful to be here representing Canada. My goals this year is to leave feeling like I created a calm positive energy in my rounds with my amazing horse partner William, made new friends, and helped show people how awesome the sport of vaulting really is!
6. What’s your freestyle theme 2022 and why?
This year I’m performing my freestyle to “Rescue”- by Lauren Daigle. Throughout the routine I show the process of regaining your voice, self worth, and confidence after escaping domestic abuse. Lauren sings phrases like “you are not hidden, broken, or forgotten.” I want everyone who has been, or is currently in that type of situation to know that you are worth it. It’s never to late to take action and “rescue” your inner self that used to be there. The white butterflies on my suit symbolize a new beginning, bravery and innocence. Where the Olive green symbolizes a newfound feeling of peace.
