NSW Takes Out the State of Origin on Horseback

Team NSW L-R: Matthew Constance, Natalie Blundell (Captain), Emily Hann, Alicia Seery and Hayley Frielick - winners of the Over The Top State of Origin at the Qld International 3DE (Photo: Emma Currie/Horsezone)

The New South Wales team has taken out the inaugural Over The Top State of Origin on Horseback at Morgan Park in Warwick over the weekend.

It was a nail biting finish, with NSW winning by only 0.5 of a point, setting the stage for a tough battle in 2014. Scoring was based on the total of the lowest 3 scores from each team.

NSW Captain Natalie Blundell enjoyed a dream run, winning the 3*, and the Altech CCI1* Classes on Algebra and Girl with a Curl respectively. She also placed 3^rd in the 1* on her other horse My Aladdin.

“It was really good for my team of horses to get exposure to a new track. They’re familiar with most of the cross country courses in NSW now so giving them a new course and collecting three places certainly made the trip worthwhile!” Ms Blundell said.

The Queensland Captain Stuart Tinney wasn’t far behind, taking out the Saddleworld 2* on Sydney.

“NSW may have scraped through with a win to collect the trophy this year, but we’ll be out to reclaim it in 2014,” Mr Tinney said.

Team mate Dean Morris also fared winning the Noosa Equestrian Centre CCN EVA 105cm class. Fellow Statesman Rebel Morrow won the Ozshotz Photography EVA80cm.

The weekend was also packed with excitement including a visit from Rugby League Great, Shane Webcke, and carriage and Morgan horse displays.

Young showjump rider Gemma Creighton walked away $500 richer after taking out the Dr Show Puissance competition at Warwick. Jumping 160cm on her D-grade horse It’s Phoenix.

Event Director Dr Cameron Osborne said it was a successful weekend.

“The calibre of the athletes was second to none. To have everyone from beginners to Olympians taking part and enjoying the weekend is a win-win,” he said.

“I’d like to thank everyone who’s been involved, the volunteers for their countless unpaid hours, the sponsors for making this event a reality and the local media who’ve been extremely supportive.” Dr Osborne said.

Read Emma Currie's comprehensive reports from each day of the Qld International 3DE and full results