Australia Takes Early Lead in Trans-Tasman Eventing Challenge

Stuart Tinney and Pluto Mio. Photo credit: ESJ Photo

 

Australia is dominating the Trans-Tasman Eventing Challenge which is being contested at this weekend’s Sydney International CCI3* at the International Equestrian Centre at Horsley Park. 

The Australian team of Stuart Tinney, Craig Barrett, Natalie Blundell and Emma Scott will enter Saturday’s cross country phase with a big lead over their New Zealand counterparts after they outperformed the Kiwis in the dressage arena. 

Australia is currently occupying first, second and third positions on the leader board and boasts a strong lead heading into the most vigorous day of competition. 

Sydney Olympic gold medallist Stuart Tinney was the team’s strongest performer but with two phases still to contest, Tinney is focusing on the task ahead.

“It’s a great result but it’s more important to be in front on Sunday.”

“The cross country course is tough enough all the way around, there are quite a few questions but I’ll definitely be getting in the best ride I can,” he said.

Natalie Blundell was a member of the Australian team which won the 2012 Trans-Tasman event in New Zealand.

“Being in the lead is good for team spirit and knowing that we’re in front will give us some extra confidence.

“We have to put our game faces on tomorrow and do a good job, there are a lot of questions out there.

“Being in front is good but this is a three day event and there’s still two days to go,” she said. 

The Sydney International CCI3* is a major international event in its own right but with the added duel between Australia and New Zealand taking place, and happening around the time of ANZAC Day, this year’s event is extra significant.

CCI3* action is set to get underway tomorrow from 12.30pm, with the CIC1* getting the day underway at 8:30am.

Find full results at http://www.sydneyeventing.org