If you’ve been to the Wānaka A&P Show in recent years, you’ve likely spotted Sergeant Ashleigh Smail in action – soaring over jumps in the equestrian ring or whipping up the crowd and furry competitors alike as leader of the much-loved Jack Russell race.
Based in Invercargill, Ashleigh first attended the Show around nine years ago, encouraged by friends from Southland who were already competing. What began as a one-off has turned into a tradition, with Ashleigh returning every year to take part in showjumping and Round the Ring competitions. Her consistency has paid off, with wins in Round the Ring in both 2024 and 2025 on her showjumping steed Sooty.
For the past five years, as a member of the New Zealand Police and the Southern Police Mounted Squad, Ashleigh has been leading winners in the Wānaka A&P Show ring wearing the distinctive fluro and blue uniform. That role soon expanded to fronting the chaotic and crowd-pulling Jack Russell race. With her energy and riding skillset on horses Bentley and now Rua, she’s become a quiet Show icon, building anticipation and expertly leading the race in front of thousands of spectators.
What Ashleigh values most about the Wānaka A&P Show is the camaraderie – the chance to compete at a high level while also catching up with friends at the end of the season. She loves the atmosphere, the organisation from Fe and team, plus the sense of tradition – describing the event as both the most professional and the most fun show she attends on her annual circuit.
Alongside her busy Show schedule, Ashleigh still finds time to explore the showgrounds, enjoy the exhibits, and watch the dog trials. Whether riding in the ring or leading the terriers, she brings enthusiasm and commitment to her various event roles – making her a unique, cross-category personality within our Wānaka A&P Show story.
