Hannah Dodd and Waikiwi Excel at Tamworth Paralympics Selection Trial

 

Not even the rain and cold weather could deter athletes at the first Paralympics Selection Trial last weekend, who were able to make the most of the stunning venue in Tamworth.

National Para-equestrian Performance Director, Julia Battams, said the level of competition at the  first nomination event has certainly set a benchmark.

“We had some new athletes and horses take part on the weekend, with a lot of personal best scores and exciting results,” she said.

“The competition among the Para-equestrian athletes has certainly increased since Beijing and even WEG (World Equestrian Games). With only four spots available on the Paralympic Team for 2012, competition is certainly going to be fierce, with everyone really lifting,” said Battams.

While there were many highlights over the weekend, Hannah Dodd riding Waikiwi FE (pictured) and Lesley Smit on Willow Tree Serendipity, both National Squad members, dominated the Grade IV competition. Dodd took first place in all three tests, with Smit finishing second each time.

When asked about the competition, Hannah Dodd said, "Tamworth went great - we got first in every test! Team test 74.68% Individual Championship test 75.59% and the Freestyle 76.41%  had an amazing week even though  the championship test was slightly under water!  We're now looking forward to the Pacific Qualfier/ CPEDI3*** and selection trial in December Werribee."

This was also the case in the Grade II competition, with National squad members Grace Bowman and Fleur Litster taking out first and second respectively in all three tests.

There are three nomination events remaining for riders looking to secure a spot for the 2012 Paralympics in London.

Quick Link

• For all the results and scores from the weekend please see  (http://www.digiscore.com.au/) . 
• Read about Hannah and Waikiwi in the 'Wonderful Waikiwi - Helping Make Dreams Come True' article.