Adelaide Equestrian Festival 2025: A Showcase of World-Class Eventing

The 2025 Adelaide Equestrian Festival once again delivered an unforgettable week of elite equestrian sport, community spirit, and spectacular South Australian autumn sunshine. Set against the iconic backdrop of the Adelaide Parklands, the Festival offered thrilling competition across all levels and left no doubt as to why it holds its place as one of the premier equestrian events in the Southern Hemisphere.

The event kicked off on the Thursday and Friday with the Dressage where the riders lit up the Gillian Rolton Main Arena.

In the CCI4-S Dressage phase, Shane Rose and Easy Turn took an early lead, scoring 29.1 penalties. Hot on their heels were Cathryn Herbert and Wimborne Constable (30.5), followed by Hannah Klep aboard Tulara Chicouve with 32.9.

Meanwhile, in the prestigious Adelaide International CCI5* Dressage, Shenae Lowings delivered a standout performance on Bold Venture, earning a leading score of 27.4. Hazel Shannon and the crowd favourite WillingaPark Clifford followed in second on 30.3, while Andrew Cooper and Hey Arnold rounded out the top three on 33.4.

The RB Sellars Cross Country Day proved every bit as exhilarating as expected, with a world-class course that tested bravery, stamina and skill.

In the Racing SA CCI3-L*, Hannah Deegan and HK Hawthorn impressed with a strong round to hold first on 28.8 penalties. Oliver Barrett and Sandhills Briar sat close behind (29.7), with Amilia Schooley and Sandhills Stella in third (30.8).

The CCI5* brought drama and athleticism in equal measure. Shane Rose and The Bandit took control with a formidable round, moving into the lead on 36.3 penalties. Sophia Hill and Humble Glory (41.2) and Hazel Shannon with WillingaPark Clifford (41.9) remained within striking distance. The tough course, designed by Mike Etherington-Smith, demanded everything from horse and rider, claiming several top contenders through eliminations and retirements.

In the CCI4-S*, Shane Rose continued his dominant weekend, maintaining top position on Easy Turn with 36.7 penalties after cross country. Sophia Hill and Tulara Baltango followed in second (44.7), with Edward Darby and Dawn of the Daythird on 45.1.

Speaking after the cross country, Rose praised the course:

“Mike does a great job. The 5* was good. He let you get into the course really nicely this year and it then got stronger and stronger as you went. You needed a bit of petrol at the back of the course.”

A Grand Finale in the Show Jumping Arena

ATCO Show Jumping Day brought the 2025 Festival to a thrilling conclusion.

In the CCI3-L*, Oliver Barrett and Sandhills Briar held their nerve to clinch the win with 29.7 penalties. Emily Gray and Legal Chase followed on 32.4, and Hannah Deegan with HK Hawthorn claimed third on 32.8. Barrett’s double celebration included being named the Bates Saddles Young Rider Champion for 2025.

“I’m over the moon,” Barrett said. “My horse this week has been unbelievable and it’s a real credit to him.”

Shane Rose and Easy Turn completed a flawless weekend in the CCI4-S*, leading from start to finish to claim victory on 36.7. Sophia Hill and Tulara Baltango (44.7) and Hannah Klep with Tulara Chicouve (46.9) completed the podium.

The Adelaide International CCI5* Show Jumping finale brought the crowd to its feet. In a historic moment, Hazel Shannon and WillingaPark Clifford secured their fourth Adelaide CCI5* win (2016, 2018, 2019, 2025), finishing on 45.9 penalties. Shane Rose and The Bandit were a close second (48.3), with Samuel Jeffree and Wimborne Conjurortaking third (50.4).

“It’s pretty unbelievable,” said Shannon. “Clifford decided this was another one to win… he’s a horse that has defied the odds.”

The inaugural R.M.Williams Corporate Cup was awarded to Evans & Ayers, with a team total of 110.6. The winning trio:

• Tahlia Pursell & Astro NZPH
• Georgia Rohde & Cassio Xtreme
• Shane Rose & Easy Turn

Festival Chair Greg Rolton summed up the spirit of the event:

“This 5-star competition continues to set the benchmark, and it’s been incredible to witness such strong performances and perfect weather. South Australia truly shone on the world stage.”

From rising stars to seasoned champions, the 2025 Adelaide Equestrian Festival proved once again why it is such a treasured event on the equestrian calendar. Congratulations to all competitors, and a heartfelt thank you to the organisers, volunteers, sponsors, and fans who brought the event to life.