The Al Reef Stables Endurance Festival

In April a flat open paddock at Toorbul was transformed in to an endurance ride with an electric atmosphere that not even rain was able to dampen!

The HH Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed Al Maktoum Challenge held over the weekend of the 16 -17 April had riders from 5 countries, of all ages competing through the state forest on tracks used for the first time for endurance horse riding. Teams travelled to the event from Tasmania, Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia to attend. The two days included; FEI 160km***, FEI 120km**, 80km* and AREA 40km and 20km intro fun ride with over 150 riders who competed.

Flat open tracks with ample water allowed for riders to compete in lower riding times than many other rides. Great horsemanship and management was on display, and Sunday, those horses presented for best condition for the 160km and 120km, looked fresh and ready to compete again.

A thrilling 2 horse gallop finish for the 80km, something rarely seen at an endurance ride, as the horses where clocked on GPS at 54km/ hour as they crossed they line. Both successfully completing the ride after passing the vet check.  

This event however was only a preview for the major event happening this weekend 11 – 13 June… The Al Reef Stables Endurance Festival will be held on that same flat paddock known by locals as the Farm Fantastic site.

The big screen on the back of the truck will be back and so will more riders, already 300 have nominated from 13 countries. 11 separate rides will be conducted including 2 x 20km intro fun rides that anyone can enter. Shaping up to be the largest equestrian festival this year not to be missed by any horse owner or rider.  All are invited to attend with free entry for spectators!

Horsezone are one of the proud sponsors of this exciting event.

There will be educational presentations, commentary on ride progress and the vet rings, an equestrian trade village for all your shopping needs and much more. It is not too late to be involved via sponsorship, trade village or become part of the action and volunteer.

Take the Pumicestone Rd exit off the Bruce H/way, head east and come and enjoy horsemanship at its best.

Quick Links

• www.ozenduranceqinc.com