For Immediate Release: March 4, 2106
Contact: Lynne Richmond
(609) 633-2954
lynne.richmond@ag.state.nj.us

(TRENTON) – Pier Semanchik, a 16-year-old Hackettstown High School Junior, was named the 2016 New Jersey Equestrian of the Year by the New Jersey Equine Advisory Board on January 25 at the annual New Jersey Breeder’s Luncheon in Eastampton. She represented the New Jersey Horse Council.

As Equestrian of the Year, Pier will attend functions hosted by the New Jersey Equine Advisory Board and represent the Board at functions.

“The competition for Equestrian of the Year highlights the most enthusiastic, dedicated young people involved with horses in our state,” said New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture Douglas H. Fisher. “Pier will represent the state proudly and be a model for younger children interested in equine activities.”

Pier lives on a 115-acre farm in Great Meadows that specializes in crop production and horse boarding, with her mom, Kyle, two brothers and a sister. She owns two registered Appaloosas and shows her 13-year-old mare, Hot Little Chip, also known as Mojo, in western pleasure, showmanship and horsemanship.

“Not only have horses been a passion of mine but they have shaped the individual I am today and helped me figure out what I plan to do in the future,” said Semanchik. “I want to bring to light all the opportunities and everything the horse industry has to offer because it offers a lot. This title gives me the opportunity to be a role model to younger aspiring equestrians and I cannot be more excited over what lies ahead for me.”

Pier has been involved with 4-H for many years, participating in a variety of national, regional and state equine competitions. She was the 2015 Outstanding 4-Her, 4-H Senior Equestrian of the Year, and first Runner-up New Jersey 4-H Equestrian of the Year. She also is a Hackettstown FFA member and has participated in numerous community service activities. Pier hopes to eventually become an equine veterinarian.