Good Luck to Para-Equestrian Riders in Tamworth

Grace Bowman at 2011 Para-Equestrian National Championships (photo: Free Rein Photography/EA)

 

The first Para-Equestrian Olympic nomination event starts today in Tamworth.

Held at the world-class venue the Australian Equine Livestock Events Centre, Tamworth, the Para-Equestrian event will be held in conjunction with the NSW State Dressage Championships.

25 horse and rider combinations will compete in the five grades of para-equestrian competition. 

This is the first of four “nomination events” for Para-Equestrian riders. Riders must compete at three of the four events to be considered for London Paralympic Games.

Para-Equestrian National Performance Director Julia Battams says with beautiful weather combined with the outstanding venue the event promises to be great success.  “All the riders have arrived and the venue is really fabulous, the riders are excited about the competition and keen to get started,” said Battams.

The grade IV is the largest class with 10 entries.  Hannah Dodd will make her debut on her new horse that was recently imported from New Zealand, Waikiwi FE  whilst Kate Doughy will be riding Northern Leandro instead of her 2010 World Equestrian Games ride Heatherton Park Al Copone.

Unfortunately, Rob Oakley from NSW has had to withdraw from his Grade II competitions due to car troubles on the way to the event.

The atmosphere will be bolstered by the competitors from the NSW State Dressage Championships, which has a large number of riders from across NSW as well as from Queensland.

Quick Links

Para-Equestrian schedule

Thursday will be team tests for all grades - timed draw [here]

Friday will be the championship test for all grades – timed draw [here]

Saturday will be the Freestyle for all grades – timed draw [here]

More information can be found on the NSW Dressage web site  [here]