The 17-year-old has been selected to represent Australia in showjumping at the upcoming Nanjing Youth Olympics.

Jake will be one of 89 Australian athletes to travel to China for the contest.

He sees the Games as his career highlight to date, but has aspirations to continue competing on an international level.

“I’d love to go to the Olympics and World Equestrian Games,” he said.

He may like riding as an enjoyable pastime but Jake has also excelled in competition.

“I’m competitive so I like doing well,” he told the Hunter Valley News.

“Mum always rode, so I rode as a kid; I’ve been riding forever really.

“Probably the adrenaline is what I enjoy most; I like the horses as well.

“You not only have to look after yourself but the horse as well.”

The Singleton High School student said he trains “pretty much all the time”.

“[Athletes] have to work really hard and make sure they love doing it and have patience,” he said.

Being in Year 12, Jake has to balance his studies with his thorough training schedule but says it is possible if you put in the effort.

The athlete is encouraged by his supportive family, including coach and mother Gail.

“I’d like to thank my sponsors Tuff Rock, Oakwood Cleaning Products, Pryde’s Easy Feed, Bomber’s Bits and Nature Vet,” Hunter said.

The Nanjing Youth Olympics will be on from August 16 to 28.