Marcus Oldham College Sponsors the Aachen Challenge

[PREVIEW[Dressage Victoria is delighted to announce that Marcus Oldham College at Geelong has entered into a five year sponsorship of the Aachen Challenge, commencing with this year’s event at the Saddleworld Dressage Festival (December 9 –12).

The Aachen Challenge has been a highlight of the Saddleworld Dressage Festival since its inception and in that time has developed into a highly aspirational and prestigious event for young dressage riders aged 16-25 years. Part of the event’s appeal, and prestige, is that the winner receives a trip to Germany to visit the famous CHIO Aachen event. Last year’s Aachen Challenge attracted record entries from four states of Australia.

Emma Morel, Director of the Horse Business Management Program at Marcus Oldham, says there was an obvious synergy with the Aachen Challenge and the competitors it attracts. “It’s a great opportunity for us to promote the College and it’s Horse Business Management courses to a group of talented and ambitious young riders, some of whom may be considering a career in the equine industry and seeking formal qualifications. In fact, two of our past graduates have actually won the Aachen Challenge, Gitte Donvig (2001) and Joanna Clarke (2003).”

Caroline Coleby, Saddleworld Dressage Festival Event Director, commented that the sponsorship deal secures the future of the event, to be named the Marcus Oldham Aachen Challenge. “This is a unique event in Australia for young dressage riders and it’s fantastic that Marcus Oldham have recognised the talent and potential of the riders that this event attracts. We look forward to a long and successful association with them”.

The first round of this year’s Marcus Oldham Aachen Challenge will be on Saturday December 11, with the top three riders going through to the derby style ride-off on Sunday afternoon.

The 2010 Saddleworld Dressage Festival runs from Thursday December 9 – Sunday December 12 at the Werribee Park National Equestrian Centre. The Festival incorporates the Victorian Dressage Championships for all levels of competition (Preliminary to Grand Prix), and the Pacific League World Cup Final. More event information available from: www.equestrianvictoriaevents.com.au/DF

Enquiries: Event Director Caroline Coleby 0432 505 774 dwts@live.com.au