The 18-year-old ABCRA star has won almost every prestigious barrel racing title. 

Hertel’s love and passion for her horses has led her to become one of the top barrel racing competitors and horse trainers in Australia, producing exceptional horses of the highest quality.

Her achievements have been far from unnoticed too after she was invited to the recent Diamond Jubilee Reception at the Sydney Opera House on November 9 where she met Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall. 

Hertel was invited to the “meet and greet” for her outstanding equine achievements. 

Attending the event by herself, Hertel says she was “extremely nervous”. 

The two-hour reception comprised of a number of official speeches, however the highlight of the event for Hertel was meeting the royals as well as past Olympians. 

Hertel enjoyed advice from the Olympians regarding how to stay focused and to motivate yourself. 

She would also like to thank the Far West Academy of Sport. 

When asked about what the future holds, she was excited to talk of her goal to win a world title, with plans currently in the making to take her champion horse “Cash” to the USA. 

Hertel  will be riding into this year’s National Finals with over a $2000 lead in the Barrel Race and the finals aggregate set firmly in her sights. 

This year’s National Finals will be full of the toughest competition with some of the leaders in each events being separated by less than $100. 

o To grab your ABCRA National Finals tickets and check out event leaders, go to www.abcra.com.au.