Barnetts Aria | ππ¨ππ ππ¨ ππ‘π ππππ πππ«π°π’π§ ππ¨π₯π¨ππ«π¨π¬π¬π ππππ’π¨π§ππ₯π¬
As we count down to the Darwin Polocrosse Nationals, weβre shining a spotlight on some of the incredible horses making the journey north. These equine athletes are the true heart of the game, and today we meet a very special mare representing Western Australia.
Horse: Barnetts Aria
Breeding: Sire β Kirkbys Stud Theo (AUS) | Dam β Barnetts Easy Rythm
Mare or Gelding: Mare
Owner: Leanne Howden
Rider: Darci Burg
State Representing: Western Australia
Team: Junior Mixed
Purchased from Hylux Performance Horses in 2021, Barnetts Aria has quickly become a standout partner for rider Darci Burg. An exceptional all-rounder, Aria excels particularly in the No.1 and No.3 positions, often reading the play so well sheβs known to work the area better than her rider!
The 2026 Darwin Nationals will be Ariaβs first Nationals appearance, and being selected to represent Western Australia alongside Darci is already their biggest achievement to date. While the mare has collected numerous Best Pony awards, this milestone is a special one for the team.
If Aria were a famous person, sheβd be Nicole Kidman β classy, talented and loyal, with a touch of nervous energy and definitely a few big opinions of her own.
Her quirkiest habit? Sheβs always in a rush to get off the gooseneck, keen to get on with whatever adventure is next.
Described by her owners as their βunicorn,β Aria is that once-in-a-lifetime pony every rider dreams of β a horse they feel incredibly lucky to have in their stables.