Top Vaulters are Converging on Mallala in South Australia for the 16th Annual Australian Vaulting Championships

This year’s event has attracted entries from right around Australia and will see 90 Vaulters, 24 horses and 18 Lungers lining up to compete when the event commences on Friday.

International judge Erich Breiter (FEI4*) of Austria will preside over competition alongside Australian Judges Robyn Bruderer, Chris Wicks and Angie Deeks.

A hardworking organising committee has been diligently working to deliver a quality event and on the eve of the first day of competition everyone involved is positive and satisfied that preparations will pay off.

“The organising committee is excited to see many months of planning coming together and all the participants are looking forward to the start of competition and the opportunity to meet up with old friends from across Australia,” Gail Beattie, a member of the organising committee said.

David Waller of Queensland is one such competitor making the trip south. After attending a local exhibition day in 2007, the 20 year old former Dressage rider made the switch to Vaulting and hasn’t looked back since.

“Vaulting is great fun, especially in a team situation. It challenges you but it’s also very exciting at the same time,” David said. 

As well as being one of Australia’s top male Vaulters, David is also a coach who assists junior participants of the sport to develop their skills. This he says gives him an edge at big competitions.

“Coaching young Vaulters has certainly increased my understanding of the sport. With greater knowledge I have been able to develop my skills and technique,” he said. 

Competition will run from Friday through to Sunday with the event offering free admission to spectators for each of the three days.

“Quite a few of the Vaulters who have recently represented Australia overseas in the Junior European Championships and World Championships will be in attendance so spectators can expect to see a spectacular showcase of Vaulting which will include individual, Pas De Deux, Team and barrel classes,” says Gail.

“The number of entries we have received has exceeded our expectations and we have secured many sponsors for this event including Equestrian Australia through the International Competitors Development Fund,” she added.

Story: Michelle Cook/EA    Photo: Angela van der Borgh/EA

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