Murillo, ON — Local youth rider Rachel Berry has made an impressive debut on the national stage, earning top honours during her first full season of American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) competition.
Coached by Murillo-based trainer Della Cryderman, Berry was named the AQHA 2025 Justin Level 2 Rookie of the Year in Canada, placing first nationally in the division. The 2025 season marked Berry’s first year competing at sanctioned AQHA shows—an especially notable achievement given the added challenge of travelling out of town to attend competitions.
Paired with her horse, Just a Lucky Seven, in March 2024, Berry quickly developed the skills and consistency needed to succeed at a high level. Her dedication and commitment throughout the season were reflected not only in her national title but also in multiple strong placings across competitive youth classes.
In addition to her Rookie of the Year title, Berry and Just a Lucky Seven earned the following placings during the 2025 season:
• 6th Place – Level 1 Youth Showmanship
• 5th Place – Youth Horsemanship
• 9th Place – Youth Showmanship
• 2nd Place – Youth Halter Geldings
• 6th Place – Level 1 Youth Showmanship
• 5th Place – Youth Horsemanship
• 9th Place – Youth Showmanship
• 2nd Place – Youth Halter Geldings
Berry’s success highlights the strength of youth equestrian talent coming out of the Murillo area and reflects the growing impact of dedicated coaching and competitive opportunities within the region.
