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Nominations for the 2009 Dressage Youth Development squad
Mandy King, EFA National Office, Thursday, 27 November 2008 The EFA is calling for nominations of eligible riders for the 2009 Dressage Youth Development Squad.
Eligible riders are those that will be aged between 16 and 25 years of age in 2009.
Riders who will be turning 16 or 25yrs of age in 2009 will be eligible, however the number of riders selected to the squad over the age of 21yrs will be restricted.
Nominations close on Friday the 12th December and can be made by either the riders or State Committees.
Please send nominations to Mandy King at the EFA PO Box 673, Sydney Markets NSW 2129.
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Price increase for FEI Passports as of 1 January 2009
 FEI Logo
Michelle Battams, Wednesday, 26 November 2008 The FEI have introduced a price increase for FEI passports and related documents from January 2009. Due to the price increase from the FEI, the EFA has to increase the prices of the following items:
FEI Passports (valid for four years) : $285
Passport Revalidation (valid for four years) : $245
FEI Recognition Card (valid for four years - to accompany a National ID Document) : $245
Duplicate FEI Passport : $75
This price increase will be valid as of the 1st January 2009.
If there are any enquiries in relation to these price increases, please contact the EFA National Office on 08 - 8762 7777 .
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Equitana 2008 - a BIG success
Nicola Turner, EFA National Office, Tuesday, 25 November 2008 Equitana Asia Pacific 2008 has come to an end. What an action packed four days it was. The crowds flooded in to the new venue at Melbourne show grounds despite the schizophrenic weather which included heavy rain, hail, gusty winds and occasional sunshine. Equitana also provided the most diverse Equine educational opportunities. There were 300 educational sessions on every aspect of horsemanship in every imaginable discipline. 31 breeds were displayed in the Breeder’s Village (as well as a miniature donkey called Trouble courtesy of the Saddle Club). There were clinics with Eventing Silver Medallist Clayton Fredericks, Linda and Pat Parelli, Olympic Jumping reserve Chris Chugg, Danish Dressage star Andreas Helgstrand and an All Stars clinic featuring 7 top horsemen from various disciplines. There was also The Way of the Horse competition where 3 contestants demonstrated their methods of connecting with an unbroken horse over two days. Each trainer selected a young unbroken horse and demonstrated the unique method they use to work with the horse building trust, respect and amazing progress in what the horse is prepared to do for its trainer especially in the intense atmosphere of Equitana. The contestants were Dan James (WA), Warwick McLean (Vic) and Shane Ransley (NSW).
The competition programme was also jam-packed. The wide array of competition events included Intermediate 1 and Grand Prix Dressage, various jumping events including a World Cup Qualifier class (won by 2008 Olympians Laurie Lever and Ashleigh Drossel Dan), Cutting Masters Championship, a Reining competition, Saddle Horse and Rider championships, Mounted Games, a Polo exhibition match and Carriage Driving.
The entertainment was non-stop and of an excellent standard. The 3 evening shows, an Evening with Guy McLean, the Western Spectacular and the Dressage Spectacular were sell-outs each filling over 4,500 seats in the Grand Pavilion.
Thursday night saw Guy Mclean work with an unbroken horse – within two and half hours Guy was not only ridding the horse he was standing on it’s back cracking two stock whips. A truly incredible display of how to earn the trust of a horse.
The Western Spectacular was a full blown rodeo with all the action and excitement that comes with raw danger. The roof was lifted off the arena as the crowd cheered for Dressage rider (and former Cowboy) Brett Parbery who rode a saddle bronc - for the full 8 seconds. (Youtube link to come).
“They told me they would give me an easy one,” laughed Brett after the ride which was anything but easy.
“It was great to be back behind the shoots with boys, they are a great group of fellas.”
Brett then came back into the arena on a Dressage horse to demonstrate his versatility. I am not sure who was most impressed the Cowboy crowd or the Dressage crowd.
The Dressage Spectacular on Saturday night was a feast of Dressage excellence. The program featured the Grand Prix Freestyle which was won by Heath Ryan on Dr Margaret Evan's imported Rubinstein stallion, Regardez Moi with 72.65%.
The crowd were also treated to Danish Dressage champion, Andreas Helgstrand (2008 Olympic Team Bronze Medallist), who performed a freestyle to music riding Dr. Kerry Mack’s Weltmeyer stallion Whisper. Andreas is also famous for his 2006 World Equestrian Games Freestyle on Blue Hors Matinee.
The Sunday (late afternoon) All-Stars clinic was simply hysterical. The All Star Clinic was a gathering of experts in 7 disciplines - all coming together, under the same umbrella to share ideas and training methods. The clinic featured Chris Chugg (showjumping), Clayton Fredericks (Eventing),Sam Gairdner (Polo), Brett Parbery (Dressage), Alan Hannaford (Cutting/Campdrafting), Warwick Schiller (Reining) and Guy McLean (a category all of his own), all of whom demonstrated and explained their particular horse sport.
The real entertained started when they all swapped horses. Chris Chugg swapped with 5-goal polo player Sam Gairdiner. Sam was coaxed (by Chris and the crowd) into jumping Grand Prix Jumping Stallion Vivant over a tall vertical and to his credit did it very well.
“Wow this saddle is so soft and this horse is so nice to ride, I could play polo on this guy!” laughed Sam. Meanwhile Chris hit the plastic polo ball around like a kid in a candy shop.
Brett Parbery swapped horses with reining champion Warwick Schiller. Within seconds Brett discarded the German training scale was executing some high speed spinning and sliding stops. Warwick rode some Dressage movements and looked at ease with it all - except the sitting trot!
Clayton Fredericks swapped the 17.2h Eventer that he was on for Alan Hannaford’s 14.2ish palomino cutting/campdrafting horse. Alan said that they needed the forklift to get him up so high. Whilst Clayton or “Mr. Beijing himself” as Alan called him had no trouble pretending to work cattle on the quick little campdrafter, Alan was not so keen to jump an arrowhead. The crowd was not going to let him out of the arena with out at least an attempt. Alan said he had not been in an English saddle since he was 12 year-old (I am guessing that may be about 40 years ago, apologies if I am wrong Alan), however he picked up canter and went straight over the jump.
These established horsemen were able to ride each other’s horses very well showing that a great horseman is a great horseman – although there were plenty of laughs to be had along the way. When they were given their own horses back - free time was declared and it became a case of boys and their toys gone wild - all in the arena at once, and the crowd loved it. The Dressage horse played polo and jumped, the Jumping horse was working like a campdrafter, Guy McLean was getting his horse to sit down so he could pick the ball up off the ground to throw it to the others, the polo player and campdrafter were playing cat and mouse with each other. If they weren't all so skilled it would have been chaos.
Equitana 2008 was HUGE success and a great triumph by Definitive Events who put together this logistical nightmare and made it seem easy.
Well done organisers, instructors, competitors, exhibitors and everyone who braved the freezing Melbourne weather to be a part of Equitana 2008. We look forward to 2010.
For full competition results and all Equitana information please see the web site www.equitana.com.au
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Andreas Helgstrand |
Andreas Helgstrand teaching in one of the Demo arenas |
Brett Parbery (white hat on top of shoot) gets ready to ride a saddle bronc |
Ready to open the gate for Brett's Cowboy comeback |
Ride em'cowboy Brett - kids do not try this at home! |
5 of 7 All Stars on their own horses |
Brett Parbury- swaps with Warwick Schiller and looks at home on Reining super stallion Smart like Smart. |
Reining Champion Warwick Schiller prepares for his Dressage Debut on Welt Hill |
layton Fredericks and Alan Hannaford swap horses - I think Ben Along Time's job is safe |
I am not sure who looks most out of place |
5 Goal Polo player Sam Gairdiner test drives Jumping star Vivant |
Brett introduces Dressage horse Welt Hill to polo! |
Perhaps you need a longer mallet Brett? |
Guy McLean amazes the crowd |
Guy McLean jokes that he is yet to work out how to saddle a horse |
The Grand Prix presentation - winner Heath Ryan and Regardez Moi who also won the Freestyle |
The CSI-W winner Laurie Lever says a few words |
The CSI-W drew a big crowd |
People queue for Heath's signature at the EFA stand |
Megan Jones has a photo with a fan |
Something to show the kids at school |
More fans |
People enjoyed putting their faces in the picture to be an Olympian at the EFA stand |
Clayton Fredericks gives a clinic |
One of the Exhibition Halls | |
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European experience wins at Equitana FEI World Cup
World Cup winner Laurie Lever showing form on his Olympic horse, Ashleigh Drossel Dan
Photograph:Nicole Taylor
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Mandy King, EFA National Office, Monday, 24 November 2008 Nicol Taylor reports from the FEI World Cup Qualifier held in Melbourne on Sunday 23 November 2008
Recent European jumping experience showed at the Pryde’s EasiFeed FEI World Cup Qualifying Round held at Equitana, Melbourne on Sunday with the first three horses all having campaigned in Europe earlier this year.
Victorian rider Laurie Lever won the class on his talented Olympic horse, Ashleigh Drossel Dan, with the horse displaying confidence and maturity after his international experience.
Lining up beside Laurie were fellow European travellers Chris Chugg and his Olympic reserve horse, Vivant, in second place, and Adam Mellers and Animate in third. Adam and Animate also participated in the Olympic selection trials held in Germany in June, and have returned from Europe a more experienced combination.
In the largest World Cup class this season of 30 horses and with the huge Equitana crowd watching, the competition between the three was just as tight as in Europe when they were vying for selection, with Laurie collecting just four faults in the first round at fence three, a 1.45m x 1.60m spread oxer which had an option of seven or eight strides coming in. Ashleigh Drossel Dan recovered well to go clear in the second round and collect the World Cup points.
Laurie Lever said the track was tough but it showed the depth of talent in Australian jumping.
“We are a long way from Europe but competitions like this prove we are not so far behind the rest of the world with a large field jumping so competitively, and if we can keep fielding competitions like this we’ll be up there with the best,” Laurie said.
Laurie congratulated the competitors and the show organisers, who he praised as a really good team that pulled together to make the arena surface jumpable after heavy rain and wild weather which brought unseasonable snowfalls to Victoria.
“It shows that with the effort of everyone pulling together we can make a world class show, even with the weather against us,” Laurie said.
There was huge pressure after just two riders went clear in the first round, both competitive young women on talented imported horses. Current World Cup points leader Amy Graham looked unbeatable on her impressive grey gelding Transatlantic, with Jamie Winning also in great form on her athletic bay gelding, Vangelo Des Hazalles.
Twelve horses were invited back into the shortened and raised second round over nine efforts, so with Jamie and Amy last to go and four other riders having already had clear second rounds the heat was really on.
The pressure of riding last proved too much, with both combinations collecting eight faults which pushed Amy Graham to fourth place and Jamie Winning finishing in sixth place. Queensland rider Billy Raymont, on Stardom, ended in fifth place.
Amy Graham admitted it had just not been her day, but congratulated all the competitors for their part in a great competition.
Becky Allen on Koyuna Ted rode one of the four clear second rounds, but carrying 12 faults from the first round saw them finish in seventh place.
Course designer, John Vallance, set a testing track of 13 obstacles with 16 jumping efforts on an 80x80m turf arena that had been lashed by heavy rain but which fortunately had dried out well with the strong winds. Sand bags had to be used to secure the wings against the gusting wind.
John Vallance said it was good to be able to build a tough track for a large field, testing their scope and requiring careful riding which brought out the experienced combinations.
The solid 1.50m track began with an open and inviting run through to fence three before a 270 degree left turn back onto a bending line through fences four to six, and a 180 degree right turn onto a huge 1.50m x 1.70m oxer set up a related line of six strides to the double at fence eight, an oxer one stride to a 1.50m vertical.
The treble at fence 12 had an inviting 1.45m vertical in two steady strides to an oxer with a 1.60m spread, followed by one long stride to a 1.50m vertical. Over half the class had trouble at the treble, proving that accurate riding was required right to the end and there was no let up.
There are just two more FEI World Cup Qualifying Rounds in the Australian League, with the competition moving to Sale this weekend and the final round to be held in Sydney in December. At the end of round thirteen, the leader on 109 World Cup points is still Amy Graham of South Australia, followed by the two Queensland riders Clem Smith on 91 points and Adam Mellers on 85 points.
For more information on the FEI World Cup Qualifiers and to view the current standings and the course plans go to the World Cup Jumping page.
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Current FEI World Cup points leader, Amy Graham, airborne on Transatlantic |
Adam Mellers on Animate chased his fellow European travellers into third place |
Amanda Madigan on Alondra |
Queensland rider Billy Raymont on Stardom ended in fifth place |
Second was Chris Chugg on Olympic reserve horse, Vivant |
Graham Davey was Chairman of the Ground Jury |
Jamie Winning on the imported gelding, Vangelo Des Hazalles |
Course designer, John Vallance |
All hands on deck; Laurie Lever switches rides to the roller to prepare the arena |
World Cup Co-ordinator, Sue Ryan | |
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Megan Jones wins SA Female Athlete of the Year
Megan Jones wins SASI Female Sportsperson of the Year
Soth Australian Sportsperson of the Year
Photograph:Peter Jones
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Nicola Turner, EFA National, Friday, 21 November 2008 South Australian Sports Institute Annual Awards were held last night at the National Wine Centre in Adelaide. Olympic Eventing Team Silver Medallist Megan Jones topped off a wonderful year by winning the prestigious award.
"It was so good to be recognised as the athlete when often the general consensus is that the horse is the only athlete," said Megan who has been a semi-finalist once before.
Paralympian swimmimg champion Matthew Cowdrey (who won 5 medals at this year's Paralympic Games) won the SASI Male Athlete of the year.
South Australian Recreation and Sport Minister, Michael Wright, presented awards in 12 categories to SASI athletes and coaches at the dinner where there were 350 people in attendance.
Minister Wright said Megan, with her silver medal in the teams event and a fourth-placing in the individual ranking at Beijing, had developed her horse Irish Jester over 15 years, and now has another horse waiting in the wings for London 2012. Her dedication to her sport and success on the world stage had led to her taking out the prestigious Female Athlete of the Year Award.
Minister Wright said the 2008 SASI Awards showcased the outstanding achievements of SASI athletes, coaches and programs over the past year.
Congratulations Megan
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Megan Jones wins SASI Female Sportsperson of the Year | |
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Christoph Hess Australian Tour
Christoph works with Matthew Dowsley on Northern Simba - some half-steps on the circle
Christoph Hess tour 2008
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Nicola Turner, EFA National Office, Tuesday, 18 November 2008 “Judge with positive glasses on” Sydney 16-18 November
Harmony between horse and rider was the theme of the day at Sydney’s Christoph Hess Coaches and Judges Workshop on Tuesday 18 November.
For three days Sydney International Equestrian Centre had the pleasure of hosting the Director for Training and Education of the German Equestrian Federation. Christoph is an FEI “I” level judge for both Dressage and Eventing and a sought after commentator for events such as the World Equestrian Games and World Young Horse Championships.
In Sydney Christoph coached riders on Sunday, 16th and Monday 17th and today worked with coaches and judges.
The structure of today was to work with 9 horses and riders of various stages of training whilst discussing marks and training techniques with the judges and coaches. The participants were Grace Kaye (Elite Dynasty), Matthew Dowsley (Welton Fynne FF), Gina Montgomery (NV Wallmeyer), Claire Siedl (Worldwide PB), Lizzie Wilson-Fellows (Let’s Imagine), Casey Stickland (Rathowen Rustic), Robbie Soster (Robali Razzamattaz), Alexis Hellyer (Waca W), Matthew Dowsley (Northern Simba). In addition Christine Crawford Crack a Jack, Nicholas Fyffe and Fererro Roche and Jess Willard and Siena Tailor Made participated in the riders clinic but not the Coaches and Judges Workshop.
Perhaps is the first thing that strikes you about Christoph is his positive attitude. Compliments about the quality of the riding and the horses were free flowing.
“When you see harmony ladies and Gentlemen as judges use high marks.”
There was a constant reference to the riders’ positions which Christoph feels is essential to the training of a horse. Christoph explained that balance between horse and rider is most important. Balance and suppleness give you the best chance of success in your training resulting in consistency in your performances.
Christoph approved of a lighter seat and shorter stirrups on the less experienced horses and explained that your seat and upper body position should vary not only on different horses but also within your work session on one horse depending on the horse’s way of going. Lighten the pressure on the back of the young horse.
“The tempo is connected to the rhythm, forward but not running,” says Christoph.
“The horse has to seek the contact and the rider must say ‘You can accept it’”
Christoph feels that 3-year-old classes for horses are not a good idea as they encourage people to ride and show these young horses too much like an FEI horse. He feels that the young horse requires a lot of time and patience and is easily ruined in the first few months by incorrect training. Equally Christoph says that the foundations for great training can be laid at this early stage.
Christoph also warns that a large horse takes more time to develop and the trainer/rider must have patience.
Christoph explained that in a young horse he looks for a very good walk and canter which are harder to improve than the trot. “The trot is the gait that has the best prospect to develop.”
“You can make a trot black to white or white to black,” stated Christoph.
When looking at a young horse “Keep a special eye on the hind legs.” A clear even tempo with activity and suppleness is ideal. This horse is “top class in the hind legs” says Christoph about Welton Fynne ridden by Matthew Dowsley. “Rarely in the world do you see better than this.”
Ride the downward transitions with as little hand as possible – lengthen the rein as much as possible then ask for the transition Christoph tells Matthew. You must have the feeling of riding into the walk not shortening the neck.
“The rider must be able to school the horse properly in the half-halt.”
Your body language should say walk – not demand it, “we are a guest on the horse” says Christoph.
“There is harmony between this horse and rider, when there is disharmony or no trust then we have problems.”
“Judge with positive glasses on. Consider that every rider could possibly get a 10. Start with a 10 and work down, not from 0 and work up. Glass is half full not half empty.”
Gina Montgomery rode NV Wallmeyer and was praised for the excellent walk “This walk is a 10” said a delighted Christoph. The criteria for the walk he says is
1. Is the horse in rhythm?
2. Are the steps regular?
3. Is the walk active? i.e. not lazy and not hurried
4. How is the overtrack and ground cover?
Lizzie Wilson-Fellows and Let’s Imagine were next in the arena. Christoph pointed out that this was a mare and that “You can’t ask more than they are willing to give.”
She is a big moving and very elastic horse so Christoph chooses to work her in the larger area around the arena. He says to encourage the same basics on this more experienced horse as you would on the green horse, rhythm, balance and suppleness. “When the basics are under control then the special movements become easy.”
“The rider is the physiotherapist for the horse” he adds. The “wellness” (happiness in his work) is essential and must be encouraged by the rider.
15-year-old Casey Strickland rode her pony Rathowen Rustic. Christoph dared her to be less defensive in her riding and ask the pony to be more open in is body and “to find the balance in motion”. Casey was able to activate the pony and encourage it more forward and there was instant improvement in the movement and elasticity of the pony.
Christoph was very impressed with Casey and her position and suggested that she accompany him back to Germany. “I leave from Perth on Tuesday don’t forget!”
Razzamattaz and Robbie Soster were next into the arena. This talented horse can be unsteady in the contact and when he is not happy he can be aggressive.
“If you test your powers against the horse then you loose a good friend because your horse will not be your friend,” warns Christoph.
He encouraged the use of a short whip on Razzamattaz in preference to the long whip. He feels that people need to be educated on the use of a whip. He does not respond well to the whip behind the saddle but a tap on the shoulder rand he “goes like a bomb” said Christoph. Robbie agreed that since that horse had been more forward that he had been much better. The horse looked seriously impressive. Very active yet relaxed in his work which has been something that Robbie and Christoph had been working on the last two days.
Alexis Hallyer and Waca W also displayed some excellent work and rewarded with some lovely compliments from Christoph. Encouraging the freedom of the neck Christoph asked Alex to perform 3 time changes using just one hand on the reins. Initially the horse made a few minor errors but with a pat and gentle encouragement the exercise was achieved very well on just the third attempt. Showing how a calm horse and consistent approach can produce results.
“You will not see this easily anywhere in the world,” exclaimed Christoph “A rider of just 19-years and a horse of just 6-years performing the changes with one hand in front of 200 people – top top class. Congratulations Alex”
Matthew Dowsley was the final rider of the day on Northern Simba. Again Christoph pointed out Matthew's ability to keep his horse in exactly the right tempo and rhythm.
He pointed out that the horse did not have the biggest trot but was very trainable with good ability for collection. A short session of half-steps and then into some beautiful passage “Now that is world class!” smiled Christoph
“Now back into trot.” Northern Simba powered into a huge trot with much improved engagement and expression.
Christoph focused on loosening and relaxing all the horses resulting in harmonious riding. The improvement in the horses was clear to see and all the riders thanked him sincerely for his help. The relaxed and friendly approach to the session was appreciated by all and Christoph is welcome back anytime!
Victoria 13-15 November
One word can describe Christoph’s first Judge / Coach Workshop on his Australian Tour “Super or in Christoph’s accent “soopa”.
For anybody who has attended one of Christoph’s workshops, this is a commonly used phrase that Christoph uses to describe both the horse and rider combination when they work so well together.
With Victoria his first stop, the 90+ Riders, Judges and Coaches alike were all impressed with his easy going manner, clear explanation and simple training techniques to ensure the horse or athlete, as Christoph explains, and rider as happy together as possible by finding the balance and rhythm between each other. Christoph also stressed the need for the horse to ‘seek’ the bit!
With a variety of horses and riders to train with, Christoph started the workshop with Hayley Gilbert (Belcam Cynara) on training a young horse (5 year old) and then concentrated on paces and transitions with Sally Stelling (riding Pony Waveleigh Super Nova). Following this Christoph worked on Medium / Advanced training techniques with Clare Porz (Candi Ka) and Small Tour horses Rebecca Woff (APH Showman), Samantha Barlett (Gershwin E) and Meaghan Willis (Roxbury Armistace).
After lunch, Christoph conducted an Inter 1 test with Caroline Wagner (W.S. Nevada). While conducting the test Christoph explained the score he would give for each movement as well as the reason why and what the rider would need to do to improve in the future. Most Coaches and Judges were seen comparing their own marks against Christoph’s.
Finally Kerry Mack (Mayfield Pzazz) and Maree Tomkinson (Lanzaru) had the opportunity to have Christoph’s input on Grand Prix training and movements.
After riding each Rider was asked by Christoph to explain to the participants how they believed their horse had performed in the Riders clinic. All riders were spontaneous in their enthusiasm and appreciation of the opportunity to work so closely with Christoph and improve their techniques.
With time for a quick Q & A, Christoph had everybody enthralled with his candour and humour and spoke freely about how he approaches and enjoys training riders and horses and not necessarily only the elite. Christoph freely imparted his knowledge to the Dressage and Eventing Riders, Judges and Coaches participating.
Further Christoph Hess Judge / Coach Workshops scheduled for Sydney (Tuesday 18th), Brisbane (Friday 21st) and finally Perth (Tuesday 25th).
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Christoph with EFA National Education Manager Nathan Holman (left) |
Nearly 200 people including 65 judges came to the Sydney Judge/Coach workshop |
Matthew Dowsley on Northern Simba |
Christoph Hess coaching |
Participants at Christoph Hess | |
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Experience counts at Wodonga World Cup
Chris Chugg of Glossodia congratulated by former member of the Australian World Cup Ted Dwyer after winning the Wodonga World Cup
Wodonga World Cup Qualfier
Photograph:Jenny Sheppard
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Nicola Turner, Tuesday, 18 November 2008
While the Shepparton World Cup prize-winners were predominantly female, the tables turned this week when the wily old men of the sport, Chris Chugg and Laurie Lever showed the others how to perform indoors under lights in the tight arena at Wodonga’s Indoor Exhibition Centre.
It took experience, strategic riding and a scopey horse to rise to the challenge thrown out by indoor course building specialist Leeson Sirrett from Colbinabbin. Sirrett, produced possibly his best and most testing course yet in the five years he has been designing for the Wodonga event.
With 11 fences and 13 jumping efforts, the course was not highly technical, there was no let up in the 30m x 55m arena that generally suits the more agile style of horse, and accurate riding paid dividends.
Chris Chugg 47, from the outer Sydney area of Glossodia, riding his Belgian Warmblood, Vivant, had prepared carefully for the event and jumped the only double clear to win convincingly. Showing why they are the current Australian showjumping champions, Chugg and his 11yo bay stallion thrilled the capacity crowd by taking calculated risks and reaping the rewards: $1800 first prize, then a rug and garland presented in memory of the late Kevin Bourke.
Chugg told the crowd: “This indoor competition is a ‘one-off’ in Australia. All the riders look forward to coming to Wodonga each year to take on this challenge, and we thank Leeson Sirett for his fantastic course.” A highlight of the presentation was showman Chugg and Vivant performing one-handed canter pirouettes for the crowd.
Runner-up was Laurie Lever, 62 riding Ashleigh Drossel Dan, from Somerville in Victoria. This was the first major competition for the duo after their Olympic campaign and Lever provided spectators with an informative course walk prior to the competition. After his clear first round, Lever collected 4 faults in the jump-off by getting a little deep to the 1.45m oxer at No7.
Third place went to current Queensland state titleholder, Robert Goodwin from Junabel, riding Warrego Sandon with a total of 8 faults. His indoor experience from Toowoomba in July paid off on Saturday. Goodwin rode an accurate and forward round and every fence came up just right for him. However he had some problems in the jump-off when he had to take a hold and had two rails down. Being only 23, Goodwin certainly reduced the average age of prize-winners. Many younger riders knocking on the door of success at this elite level in the sport found the indoor competition held at night under lights to be particularly challenging. Goodwin and Warrego Sandon won Friday’s Betty McVean Memorial A and B grade championship.
Current World Cup point leader, Amy Graham from Arthurton in South Australia, was fourth on the athletic Transatlantic. With 4 faults in the first round, Graham collected a further 4 faults while producing the second-fastest jump-off round.
Adam Mellors from Beaudesert in Qld and his stallion Animate produced one of the four clear first rounds, but became a little rattled in the jump off and ended up on 8 faults. Amanda Madigan from Glossodia was sixth on Alondra finishing on 12 faults in their first World Cup qualifier together.
Second on the World Cup table, Clem Smith and Benaloo Dark Ages incurred 12 faults in the first round, probably due to the fact that the horse fell heavily after jumping a cross-rail in the outdoor warm-up area.
Probably the most influential fence on course was the double at 8A&B. With a 1.5m oxer to 1.5m vertical and the distance riding long, horses needed an accurate ride to 8A. The double led to faults from 8 of the 22 starters, one elimination and one horse retired. Fence 5, a 1.5m plank vertical set three strides after a 1.45m oxer also rode forward and found many horses wanting a little more scope.
After he had put the finishing touches to the course, Leeson Sirrett commented: “A tough rider will win this competition, there is no margin for error in this course. When I first got the job here at Wodonga they told me I’d never be able to build greater than 1.4 metres. I’ve now disproved that on many occasions. However the absolute fundamental here is getting the surface right – this ground does not give up its secrets easily. The surface has improved due to the fact that a lot of work has been done on it and it’s ridden extremely well this weekend.” He then accurately predicted the World Cup winner and runner-up!
Leeson Sirett also had Shepparton World Cup winner Jamie Winning on his list of favourites for Wodonga, but this was not Jamie’s night.
The largest number of horses ever entered the Wodonga World Cup this year with a field of 22 starters. A late scratching was Paul Athanasoff of Dungog and his Olympic short-listed horse Wirragulla Nicklaus who had also elected not to start at Shepparton.
After the competition, spectators were invited onto the area to inspect the course, which proved very popular. Most jumps were around 1.50m high by up to 1.80m wide and the arena was themed around the local wine industry. Grapevines adorned some rails, wine barrels filled in spaces on the arena and even sported (empty) bottles of wine and glasses!
The organising committee, the Border District Showjumping Club, sponsors the World Cup qualifier and the $6,000 event was the culmination of three days of competition known as the 24th Wodonga Showjumping Spectacular, with 109 riders and 318 horses.
This is the 12th round of Australian World Cup qualifiers with three to go. Next weekend the action will be at Equitana at the Melbourne Showgrounds. Amy Graham still leads on 96 points having widened the gap on Clem Smith on 89 and Julia Hargreaves on 76. Adam Mellors on 70 points has overtaken Jamie Winning on 65 and Wendy Schaeffer retains 6th position with 56 points, just one point ahead of Robert Goodwin.
For full results and more information about the FEI World Cup qualifiers and to view the current standings go to the World Cup page.
Background
The Border District Showjumping Club was formed over 25 years ago to promote showjumping in the area. The Club is based at the Wodonga Showgrounds and conducts training clinics, monthly rallies and competitions. This is the 24th year the Club has conducted a round for the World Cup, which started in Mulwala in 1984 and transferred to Wodonga in 1994.
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Laurie Lever of Somerville 2nd at Wodonga |
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Chris Chugg thanks the organisers and the appreciative crowd |
Amy Graham of SA riding Transatlantic 4th in the World Cup and ahead on the leader board |
Adam Mellers of Beau Desert riding Animate 5th in the World Cup |
Anne Garner of Sale the judge at Wodonga |
Arena decorations |
Course Designers Leeson Sirrett and Bob Pritchard chat to ground crew |
Leeson Sirrett of Colbinabbin the International Course Designer at Wodonga |
Lots of photos taken of jumps |
Meredith Watson talking with Andrew Hoy's father Jim of Culcairn |
A packed stadium enjoyed the Wodonga World Cup jumping |
Preparing for the presentation Rhonda McVean, Bob and Daisy Pritchard and Roger Lees |
Roger Lees president of the organising committee |
The crowd move in |
The spectators enjoy sizing up the jumps after the Wodonga World Cup jumping |
The Wodonga Stadium |
Robert Goodwin -3rd in the WC and winner of the Betty McVean Memorial Championship riding Warrego Sandon pictured with the McVean Family | |
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New National Board elects first female EFA President
2008-09 EFA National Board
(l-r) Graeme Bowker, Natalie Nichols, Mary Seefried, Kerry Brydon, Peter Hickson
Photograph:Franz Venhaus
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EFA National Office, Saturday, 15 November 2008 At its first meeting following the 2008 EFA Annual General Meeting in Adelaide, the new Board elected Mary Seefried as the EFA's fist female National President. At the AGM, former Chairman and President Geoff Sinclair and Director Alexi Kentish retired from their positions after completing their maximum of three terms on the National Board. They may restand for election after one year's break.
Branches had elected Graeme Bowker and Natalie Nichols earlier this year to take up their appointments after the 2008 EFA AGM.
Congratulations to Mary Seefried on her ground-breaking appointment and welcome to our two new Directors.
The Board and the Branch Chairs present at the AGM applauded the departing Directors for their hard work and achievements in the last five years.
During the AGM, the Branches also endorsed a change of name from 'Equestrian Federation of Australia' to 'Equestrian Australia' and enthusiastically received a new range of logos and other 'branding' presented by CEO Franz Venhaus. The name change and the new 'branding' will be in place by February 2009.
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Volunteers required for the 2009 Australian Youth Olympic Festival
2009 AYOF
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Michelle Battams, Friday, 14 November 2008 We require as many volunteers as possible for the running of the 2009 AYOF. Would you like to volunteer your services in any capacity for the 2009 AYOF? If so, please fill out the volunteer application form in either PDF or Word and return it to Michelle in the National Office either via fax 02 9763 2466, email michelle@efanational.com or post PO Box 673 Sydney Markets NSW 2129.
Events such as the AYOF cannot run without volunteers, and we greatly appreciate the time and skills that are offered when these events take place.
Should there be any enquiries in regards to the 2009 AYOF, please contact Michelle in the National Office.
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Chris Burton wins Adelaide CCI 4* - watch the video
Chris Burton and Newsprint - CCI 4* winners
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Nicola Turner, Friday, 14 November 2008 Megan Jones 2nd, Wendy Schaeffer 3rd and 4th. Link to "In the limelight" video on Adelaide CCI 4* by Peter Haynes: http://www.vimeo.com/inthelimelight
Sunday 16 Novenmber
Chris could not afford a rail down but he was cool under pressure jumping a beautiful clear round to finish the 2008 Adelaide CCI 4* on his Dressage score and win the event. Megan Jones and Kirby Park Allofasudden also jumped clear to move her up from 3rd to 2nd.
Wendy Schaeffer finished 3rd on Koyuna Sun Dancer and 4th on Koyuna Sun Shine - both horses finishing the event on their Dressage scores.
Unfortunately 5 rails and 4 time faults dropped Natalie Davies and Chatswood Sharp Move from 2nd to 7th. Natalie was still smiling thrilled to finish her first CCI 4*.
Lauren Balcomb won the CCI 2* with one rail down on the lovely 9-year-old Kootamootoo, 2nd Megan Jones and Kirby Park Fedwell, 3rd Shane Rose and APH Moritz.
The CIC 2* was won by Shane Rose on the black stallion Statford Novalis, 2nd Sam Lyle on Classic Mischief, 3rd Kevin McNab on Kelecyn Stiff Drinks.
Chris Burton and Megan Jones were joint winners of the Anna Savage Medal for 2008. Awarded to the Best And Fairest Event rider of the year and presented at the Black Tie Trot-Up Ball on Saturday evening.
Congratulations to the Adelaide Organising Committee for a spectacular event.
Saturday 15 November
Clear and under time puts Chris and Newsprint in poll position going in to tomorrow's final phase - but only just.
A beautiful sunny day in Adelaide provided ideal conditions for the cross-country. Chris Burton and Newsprint have taken the lead after the XC in the CCI 4*. Chris remained on his Dressage score of 52. Just 0.4 penalties behind is Natalie Davies on Chatswood Sharp Move. Dressage leader Megan Jones on Kirby Park Allofasudden incurred 4 time faults to be in 3rd place.
Wendy Schaeffer was clear and within the time on both her horses to be currently in 4th on Koyuna Sun Dancer and 5th on Koyuna Sun Shine. Luke Jones on Soul was the onl other rider to remain on his Dressage score and has improved his position from 17th to 9th place. In all 11 combinations were clear of jump faults, Robert Palm was the only rider to incur 20 penalties and there were 6 horses that retired or were eliminated.
Lauren Balcomb remains in the lead on Kootamootoo in the CCI 2* and Shane Rose is still leading the CIC 2* on Statford Novalis.
Friday 14 November
Megan and Kirby Park Allofasudden were the best of the day in the CCI 4* scoring 49.1 penalites. In =2nd are Natalie Davies and Chatswood Sharp Move and Christopher Burton and Newsprint on 52.00.
Disaster for Heath Ryan when Mystery Whisper (who was performing a stunning test) suddenly jumped out of the arena and was eliminated.
The Adelaide Commitee have put on a spectacular event. Today was called the Haigh's Dancing with the Stars Dressage Day. The VIP marquee was superbly hosted and the guests were treated to a wonderful fashion parade, a auction, good food and wine. It was a luxurious luncheon. Channel 7's Mark Baretta was a special guest.
The area around the main Dressage arena is a little smaller allowing the spectators to be close to the action. There was a good sized crowd, great shopping and entertainment. Local Olympians Megan Jones and Kirby Park Irish Jester performed a Freestyle Dressage test (Dressage to music) and Jester enjoyed the adoration of his fans who queued to pat him. Atlanta Gold medallist Wendy Schaeffer did a Dresage display on Koyuna Sun Magic.
Lauren Balcomb is leading the CCI 2* on Kootamootoo (45.60) and Shane Rose is leading the CIC 2* on Statford Novalis (46.6)
The Wayne Copping designed course is up to his usual high standards and looks set to deliver a great day of action tomorrow.
"What we want to do with this event is get to the stage where we're really tailoring a jump for a specific sponsor, so that it looks totally different from a normal cross country course" said Wayne.
Gillian Rolton (Event Director) and Wayne have new presentation ideas for the course, as Wayne explains.
"Gill and my idea is to give this course a bit of pizzazz, so when people walking past or driving past will see the jumps and think 'wow, what's all that about?'
Thursday 13 November
The weather forecast is perfect, the course is beautiful and we look set for a great 2008 Australian Three-Day Event.
All the horses passed the first veterinary inspection but it was a nervous start for some - Ali Foye’s Bondir, Wendy Schaeffer’s Koyuna Sun Shine and Jessica Mitchell’s AEC Stormin who were re-examined in the CCI 4*.
It is a class of fresh faces in the CCI 4* with just 2 of the 20 combinations (Emily Anker and Keniski and Luke Jones and Soul) having ever competed at this level before.
Good Luck to everyone.
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CCI 4* Ground Jury Ron Patterson, Jane Tolly and Christian Landolt |
Robert Palm and He's the One |
Emma Armstrong and Vortrekker |
Luke Jones and Soul |
Chris Burton and Newsprint |
Sam Lyle and Interwin |
Emily Anker and Keniski |
Christian Landolt speaks with Ali Foye |
Wendy Schaeffer and Koyuna Sun Shine |
Megan Jones and Kirby Park Fedwell - CCI 2* |
Melissa Van Den Berge and Phantom Stealth - CCI 2* |
Megan Jones and Kirby Park Allaofasudden |
Peter Gillis and Mr JJ |
Heath Ryan and Mystery Whisper before disaster struck |
Heath Ryan graciously leaving the arena |
Kirby Park Irish Jester meets his fans |
The guests enjoy the VIP hospitality |
Mark Barretta welcomes the guests |
Fashion Parade |
The crowd enjoys a beautiful day |
Wayne Roycroft presents fellow Olympic Coach Harry Boldt with an award of appreciation on behalf on the EFA |
Eventing Dressage Olympic Coach Harry Boldt |
The Ch 7 jump |
The Ducks |
The jump into the lake |
Cheese apex |
Wendy Schaeffer and Koyuna Sun Dancer |
Megan Jones and Kirby Park Allaofasudden |
Jess Mitchell and AEC Storman |
Marcia Williamson and Kalason |
Robert Palm and He's the One |
Stephanie Bender and La Li Lu 2 |
The beautiful course in Rymill Park |
The beautiful course in Rymill Park |
Chris Burton and Newsprint - 2008 Adelaide CCI 4* winners |
Chris Burton and Newsprint - 2008 Adelaide CCI 4* winners |
Shane Rose and Statford Novalis - 2008 Adelaide CIC 2* winners |
Lauren Balcomb - 2008 Adelaide CCI 2* winners |
Megan Jones and KP Allofasudden |
Megan Jones and KP Allofasudden |
Megan Jones and KP Allofasudden |
Megan Jones and KP Allofasudden |
Chloe Hughes and Balmoral Hi Road |
George Sheridan and Woznme |
Lauren Balcomb and Kootamootoo - CCI 2* winners |
Shane Rose and APH Moritz in a less stylish moment |
Stephen Bow and KP Avenue |
Vince Roche with Andrew Griffiths |
Olympic Silver Medallist Clayton Fredericks with Leigh McClusky |
Chris Burton and Newsprint - a faultless round under pressure |
Megan Jones showing determination on the CCI4* cross-country |
Megan Jones a clear round for 2nd place inthe CCI 4* | |
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Nominations Closing Soon
 Edwina Alexander & Pialotta
Tracey Lesslie, EFA National Office, Wednesday, 12 November 2008 Nominations for National Postions close on Monday 17 November 2008. Nominations for Jumping Selectors.( Position description)
Click here for nomination forms in Word or PDF.
Nominations for Jumping Chef d'Equipe.( Position Description)
Click here for nomination forms in Word or PDF.
Applications must be received by close of business.
Please remember that late applications will not be accepted.
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Nominations Closing Soon
 EFA Logo
Tracey Lesslie, EFA National Office, Tuesday, 11 November 2008 Nominations for National Positions closing soon Nominations for Dressage Selectors close Monday 17 November 2008.
Click here for nomination forms in Word or PDF.
Nominations for Dressage Chef d'Equipe close Monday 17 November 2008.
Click here for nomination forms in Word or PDF.
Nominations for the National Dressage Judges Committee close Friday 28 November 2008.
Click here for nomination forms in Word or PDF.
Applications must be received by close of business. Please remember that late applications will not be accepted.
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Jamie Winning wins Shepparton WC Qualifier
Jamie Winning of Ebenezer wins the Shepparton World Cup qualifier
Shepparton WC Qualifier 2008
Photograph:Jenny Sheppard
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Jenny Sheppard, Tuesday, 11 November 2008 The girls dominated at Shepparton taking the top four places. Friday’s 40mm of rain, although well received by local farmers in Victoria’s drought stricken area, gave course designer David Sheppard a huge task to completely redesign the World Cup course and use as much new footing as possible. The efforts of the course designer and organising committee to prepare the arena and make such good sport for spectators and riders alike are to be congratulated.
Becky Allen of Arthurs Creek was the runner up riding Koyuna Ted, the pair actually jumping all fences clear, an extra pull on the reins following the water jump at number seven meant a quick circle to regroup and four penalties added.
Veteran Vicki Roycroft of Mt White placed third riding Infatuation, jumping a super faultless first round and four penalties in the jump off at fence eight the 1.56m rustic vertical.
Julia Hargreaves of Wilberforce finished fourth riding Hayman Pierville, jumping a super first round and just the back rail down at the triple bar on fence five in the jump off to finish on four penalties with time deciding the placing. Girls taking the first four placing’s.
Queenslander Billy Raymont finished fifth riding Stardom on four penalties in a slower time and Adam Mellers of Beau Desert was sixth riding the stallion Animate on eight penalties.
Winner Jamie Winning commented at the prize giving ceremony “I would like to thank the organising committee for there efforts to make a great class. Thank you to my mother and grand mother, all my supporters and most of all my horse”.
Class favourite Chris Chugg of Glossodia riding Vivant incurred eight penalties with a rail down at fence two a 1.47m yellow vertical, a foot in the 3.7m open water at number seven meant they did not qualify for the second round. Queenslander Clem Smith riding Dark Ages has won two qualifiers this season, three rails down on Saturday left them well out of the placing’s. Points leader on the overall Australian World Cup standing’s, Amy Graham of South Australia incurred 16 penalties riding the grey Transatlantic when she had rails down at both parts of the combination fence four, then a foot in the water at seven causing another fault at fence eight. Melbourne Royal winner Wendy Schaeffer riding the brown mare Koyuna Sun Set jumped clear in the first round, rails down at the rustic vertical and the triple bar in the second round dropped them to 7th placing. Queenslander Paula Hamood jumped a super clear round one riding Randlab Capone, two rails down in the jump off meant 9th placing.
David Sheppard set a testing track of 11 fences and 13 jumping efforts, the related line of five strides from the open water jump at number seven to the rustic vertical at number eight causing penalties from 14 of the 23 starters. Notable combinations Australian Olympic team member Laurie Lever of Somerville and Paul Athanasoff of Dungog elected not to start their horses on the rain affected footing.
The class was sponsored by the event organisers, the Northern Victorian Showjumping Club and $5,100 in prize money. A total of 400 horses competed in the three day jumping festival, the 24th Shepparton World Cup Qualifier.
Following the 11th Australian Jumping World Cup qualifying round at Shepparton Amy Graham leads the standings on 83 points just one point ahead of Clem Smith. Julia Hargreaves hold 3rd on 76 points and Jamie Winning has moved into 4th position on 65 points. Adam Mellers is on 58 points and Wendy Schaeffer on 56. The next three rounds will be held at Wodonga, Equitana and Sale all in Victoria and will have a major bearing on who qualifies to represent Australia at the 2009 FEI Jumping World Cup Qualifier in Las Vegas next April.
For more information on the FEI World Cup Qualifiers and to view the current standings go to the World Cup page.
Photos supplied by Jenny Sheppard
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Jamie Winning of Ebenezer wins her first World Cup qualifer riding Vangello De Hazalles |
Becky Allen of Arthurs Creek riding Koyuna Ted placed 2nd in the Shepparton World Cup qualifier |
Amy Graham riding Transatlantic leading the Australian standings |
Vicki Roycroft of Mt White riding Infatuation for 3rd in the Shepparton World Cup qualifier |
Jamie Winning of Ebenezer riding Vangello De Hazalles to win the Shepparton World Cup qualifier |
David Sheppard of Ross Creek - the Shepparton CSI-W course designer |
Billy Raymont riding Stardom |
Chris Chugg riding Vivant |
Wendy Schaeffer riding Koyuna Sun Set |
World Cup Committee representative Anne Garner of Sale | |
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Horse-related injury survey
 Cross-country fence Steps
Michelle Battams, Tuesday, 11 November 2008 If you have suffered from an injury due to horse-related sports, please take the time to fill out this survey and help develop safety within our sport. The Equestrian Federation of Australia has agreed to co-host an Internet-based survey to measure the extent and consequences of horse-related injury in three countries, the USA, the UK and Australia. The survey was developed by Dr Patricia Evans at Utah State University, and has been adapted for wider use with help from Ken Law, who hosts a UK-based website, www.ridingsafely.net and Denzil O'Brien, who has recently completed a 5-year surveillance program on the risks involved in the sport of Eventing.
The Equestrian Federation of Australia's National Safety Officer, Bob Powles, also assisted in making the survey as EFA-friendly as possible.
US law requires that the survey can only be completed by people aged 18 or over. The survery is aimed only at people who have had a horse-related injury, not at the general EFA membership. There is an email address included in the preamble to the survey, for any queries respondents might have about the questions or how to answer them.
Please be confident that you will not be asked for any information which might identify you. The information gathered from the survey will be used statistically not descriptively. There are some questions which may have a distinct USA or UK focus, and if you are unsure of what the question means, just select the answer that most closely reflects your experience or your understanding.
This is possibly the first time that such a survey has been undertaken across such a wide range of potential respondents, and we believe that it will provide valuable information on the extent and cost of horse-related injury in our sector. If you fall into the category of having a horse-related injury, please take a few minutes to complete this survey.
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Nominations for the EFA NCAS Committee close November 28 2008
 EFA Logo
Diana Sutherland, Friday, 7 November 2008
The EFA NCAS (National Coach Accreditation Scheme) Committee agreed to implement a non-representational ('skills-based') structure in 2008.
Presently, the Committee consists of representatives of the State Coaching Committees and a Chair.
The Committee proposed to the National Board a new system to call for nominations from EFA coaches, from which Branch Coaching Committees will elect five members to form the new EFA NCAS Committee. This new Committee will elect a Chair from among themselves.
This week the National Board endorsed the necessary changes to the EFA Membership and Committee By-Laws to permit the new committee structure.
Nominations are now open. Download a Nomination Pack and submit nominations to the EFA National Office by close of business Friday 28 November 2008
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Jayden Brown to ride at FEI Young Rider World Cup Dressage Final
Jayden and Widelo
Jayden Brown and Widelo
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Jenny Carroll, National Youth Development Coordinator - Dressage, Thursday, 6 November 2008 Jayden and Widelo will travel to Germany compete at the Final in December. Jayden Brown and his 9-year-old gelding Widelo (by Weltmeyer) have been selected to represent Australia and the Asia/Africa Pacific region at the FEI Young Rider Dressage World Cup in Germany.
The Final is to be held in Frankfurt (GER) from 17-21 December.
A Maximum of 14 riders - in our case up to two from our region and only one from each National Federation can participate in the final.
Jayden and Widelo won all 3 CDIY Freestyle competitions in Australia this season to qualify.
19-year-old Jayden of Bellbowrie (Qld) represented Australia in the 2007 Lion Foundation New Zealand Young Rider Championships Trans Tasman Friendly Derby gaining the highest score overall. He also competed with Alycia Targa (last year's Australian rep in the FEI YR World Cup final) this year in the New Zealand Tri-Nations Cup (a borrowed horse competition) where Australia finished 2nd.
Jayden will be based with Leonie Brammell in Germany who he has trained with for some time.
Although the generous competition sponsors cover the cost of getting Widelo to and from Germany for the Final, Jayden still has to raise around $25,000 to cover the costs involved in this event. If you would like to help Jayden get to the Final please contact Leisa Dunlop the Secretary of Dressage Qld. leisa.dunlop@btequipment.com.au
Well done Jayden and best of luck for the Final!
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Jayden and Widelo | |
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Megan Jones presents the Melbourne Cup
Megan Jones presents the Melbourne Cup
Melbourne Cup 2008
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Nicola Turner, EFA National Office, Wednesday, 5 November 2008 Megan was accompanied by Shane Rose, Sonja Johnson and Georgia Bruce in the presentation of the Cup. It was a proud moment to see Shane Rose, Georgia Bruce, Sonja Johnson and Megan Jones cantering down the straight at Flemington in front of 120,000 people. Megan held the Melbourne Cup high above her head, and was smiling from ear to ear as she entered the Parade Ring and handed the Cup to fellow Olympic Medallists James Tomkins and Steve Hooker.
The day went very smoothly from our perspective. The only slight deviation from our original plan was the last minute change of Megan’s horse. The grey “Jester” look alike found the atmosphere a bit too exciting and the decision was made at the last minute to put Megan on the “Jag” look alike. Megan was the one holding the Cup and therefore the only Team member to have to go into the Parade Ring and stand there on the horse for nearly ten minutes. The ring was surrounded by thousands of people and the atmosphere was enormous.
The other riders cantered behind Megan down the straight and stood on the track accompanied by some of Victoria’s Highland Horsemen.
The Cup has a full time care-taker who inspected Megan’s gloves to check if they were soft enough to touch the Cup, and they were also required to be white. The gloves passed the test and Cup was handed over.
Shane Rose impressed fashionista Carson Kressley (of Queer Eye for the Straight Guy and How to Look Good Naked fame) and was invited to stay with him in American any time!
Sonja made friends with Bart Cummins the day before the race and he suggested they just hand the Cup to directly to him. He was right.
Another nice moment was when a very polite and unassuming gentleman with an Irish accent asked if his children could meet the riders. He was wearing a Coolmoore jacket with “Aiden” embroided on it.
Andrew Hoy and wife Bettina (fresh from her recent victory at Pau CCI 4*) are regular guests of the Melbourne Cup Committee and were in attendance again this year. It was a nice opportunity for a catch-up with them.
A huge thank you to the owners of the borrowed horses, Sharon Ridgway for All Luck’s stand in GV Top of the Line, Melinda and Laura Jobling for the beautiful black Stock Horse 5-year-old Glen lee Rivoli Lucifer who in the words of Sonja Johnson “looked just like a young Jag (Ringwould Jaguar)." Joanne Murphy who loaned us the beautiful Koolaroo Lily Marlene who was the body double for Kirby Park Irish Jester and finally thanks to Georgia Bruce and her helpers Anne Skinner, Anne and Maree Fitzpatrick for their efforts to get Georgia’s horse Rumba there and back on both days.
Thank you also to the Victorian Racing Club for the invitation to participate in the pre-race presentation of the Cup and to Peter Jones Special Events for making it all happen.
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Megan |
The jockey line up - Equestrians behind |
Megan, Shane, Georgia and Sonja at the pre-race parade through Melbourne on Monday |
Megan rehearsing on Monday - just look at the roses! |
Aiden O'Brien and his children meet Shane and Megan |
The riders with some musical fans |
Steve Curl, Megan Jones, Nicky Turner, Sonja Johnson, Niki Chapman and Shane Rose |
Megan hands the Cup the James Tomkins and Steve Hooker |
Steve Curl makes friends with Carson Kressley |
Nicky Turner and Niki Chapman give Bart a few tips | |
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Nominations for the position of Rider Representative - Eventing
 Sam Lyle and Star Vision
Michelle Battams, Wednesday, 5 November 2008 The EFA is now calling for nominations for the Rider Representative position for 2009-2011.
The term for this position is 2009-2011.
Please note that nominations close on Wednesday, 12 November 2008.
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FEI Executive Board calls for immediate resignation of the FEI Dressage Committee
FEI News, Monday, 3 November 2008 The FEI Executive Board has requested the immediate resignation of the entire FEI Dressage Committee.
The FEI Executive Board has taken this
decision following a series of issues indicating the current
Committee’s lack of flexibility on certain key matters. The Committee
has been seen to work in isolation, not fully representing the
interests of the Dressage community as a whole.
An
interim solution is being discussed within the FEI in order to ensure
the sound management of the sport whilst reviewing the strategic
direction of Dressage. The names of the interim committee and their
mandate will follow.
As
the custodian of equestrian sport, the FEI will continue to maintain
stringent level of transparency and professionalism meeting the
requirements of a modern international sports governing body. (Published on www.fei.org
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