Australia Claims Trans-Tasman Trophy at Sydney CDI

After an electric opening to the 2026 Sydney CDI Trans-Tasman Dressage Challenge, the deciding events were held on Saturday — and Australia delivered, claiming the Trans-Tasman Challenge trophy in front of an enthusiastic crowd.

Australia had made a strong start across the opening day's CDI3* Grand Prix and CDI-Y Teams competition, taking an early lead in the pointscore. That lead was converted into victory on the final day, with both the Grand Prix and Young Riders combinations producing outstanding freestyle performances to seal the result.

The trophy was just one of many wins on the day. Numerous combinations across both divisions achieved personal best scores, and the camaraderie and new friendships formed between the teams and their support crews were celebrated as victories in their own right.

A Historic Revival

Many riders expressed disbelief that 29 years had passed since the last Trans-Tasman event, with several names on the trophy still actively competing — a remarkable testament to the longevity of elite dressage careers and the enduring significance of this trans-Tasman rivalry.

The 2026 format brought a valued mentorship dimension to the competition, with experienced Grand Prix riders providing guidance to younger, less experienced team members throughout the event. Both national federations recognised the clear advantage of introducing combinations to international competition — without the burden of a long-haul flight — as an ideal development pathway.

The success of the format has firmly cemented the Trans-Tasman Challenge's return as a fixture on the international dressage calendar. Organisers are now actively seeking a naming rights sponsor to ensure the event's long-term continuity and growth.

Special recognition goes to the Organising Committee of the Sydney CDI, led by Toni Venhaus, for the considerable additional work undertaken to incorporate and accurately score the Trans-Tasman Challenge alongside the broader CDI programme.

Full results and startlists: equestrian-hub.com/show/262296