Elegance and smiles at the 2017 Showhorse Championships

The Australasian Showhorse and Rider Championships were held at Werribee Park in Victoria at the weekend.

Whilst the weather wreaked havoc, the show went on. It was 35 degrees one day with resourceful competitors trekking to the local Bunnings and returning with inflatable pools and outdoor furniture to make the most of the heat. Then by Friday night severe weather warnings for flooding near Werribee River and electrical storms were issued. Fortunately, the most dangerous weather missed Werribee and rider’s spirits were not dampened.

In the main arena, a highlight of the event was the popular Off The Track Ridden Championship and Fashions Off The Field. Prizes included:

• $1000 for the Champion Ridden OTT Thoroughbred & $500 for Reserve
• $300 Myer gift voucher for the “Fashions Off The Field” winner

Rebecca Farrow and Stage Presence won the OTT Ridden Championship whilst the  Fillies and Fashionistas (female handler) winner was Rebekkah Carrolan and Optimal and the Masters and Gentleman (male handler) winner was Matt Snell and Optimal. Remarkably, the Fillies and Fashionistas and Masters and Gentlemen classes were both won with the same horse.

These classes attracted some esteemed judges including Herald Sun columnist Fiona Byrne. It’s great to see these initiatives attracting interest from the mainstream media and putting show horse and equestrian in the limelight.

For full results of the 2017 Australasian Showhorse and Rider Championships please go to http://showhorsenationals.com/results-2017/