True dedication is rare, but Janice Jones has proven that passion can sustain a community for over a decade. The Queenstown resident recently received a prestigious life membership for her 15 years of tireless service as the secretary of the Central Otago Pony Club.
Her journey with horses began when she was just five years old in Dunedin. Since taking on the secretarial role for the Wakatipu Pony Club in 2008, she has become the backbone of the organization, managing teams, coordinating major events, and securing vital sponsorship through her family business.
Her commitment is nothing short of legendary. Even after suffering a broken leg from a fall off her horse, she refused to let her team down. She showed up to the area championships in a wheelchair just four days after the accident to ensure the event ran smoothly.
For Jones, the reward isn't in the accolades, but in watching the younger generation grow. She believes that equestrian sports provide essential life lessons for children, teaching them how to handle both success and disappointment when dealing with their animals.
Although she joked about stepping down once she received her life membership, the club members made it clear that she isn't going anywhere. Her influence remains a vital part of the club’s future, proving that when you love what you do, you never truly stop serving.
Source: odt.co.nz
