Olympian Ryan is early leader at Sydney CCI3*

By: Michelle Cook/EA

Olympian Heath Ryan (NSW) is the early leader in the Sydney International three-day event CCI3*, which started today at the Sydney International Equestrian Centre. 

Ryan and Aspire R finished today’s dressage with 49.60 penalties giving them a marginal lead over second placed combination Shaun Dillon and GV ANZAC who are sitting on 50.90 penalties.

Ryan’s credentials have earned the 56 year old the veteran title in this year’s Sydney CCI3*, but despite his experience Ryan expects strong competition during tomorrow’s cross country.

“There are some real guns among the young riders in the field and I’m expecting big things from a couple of them. They have the potential to be superstars.”

Ryan was pleased with his horse’s performance in today’s dressage.

“He’s a bit young but he’s gradually getting better. This is the best test he’s ever done.”

20 year old Isabel English (QLD) is the youngest rider in the CCI3* and she is currently occupying third place with the thoroughbred cross Feldale Mouse and sixth place with the thoroughbred Grand Andi.

“Mouse was really good today he did a good test for him and I’m very happy with Andi, It’s only his fourth three star event so he’s still very green at this level.”

Olympian Shane Rose (NSW) is leading the CCI2* with his up and coming Purbeck Diesel. The silver medallist from Beijing enters Saturday’scross country on 41.70 penalties and ahead of Christine Bates (NSW) and her thoroughbred Ned O Reilly who are on 43.50. Tim Boland (NSW) and Napoleon are in third place with 44.60 penalties. Bates is also leading the CCI1* with the horse Brightnight.

Competition at the Sydney International Horse Trials continues Saturday with cross country and concludes on Sunday with the deciding show jumping phase.

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