Sydney CDI I to host Trans-Tasman Challenge

Sydney CDI is dusting off the Trans-Tasman trophy in readiness of Equestrian Australia and Equestrian Sport New Zealand reintroducing this exciting international team competition.

The challenge has a long history with prominent dressage riders from our region featured on the trophy. Last won in 1997 by the Australian Team consisting of:

• M. Hanna – Mosaic 11
• N. French - Wiking
• R. Downs – Yardley Charisma
• M. Dowsley – Argentille Gullitt

Both Federations High Performance departments have been working hard to get the Trans Tasman challenge back on the Dressage calendar, where it has been successfully contested for the disciplines of Eventing (Oceania) and Jumping (Trans Tasman). Warrick Allan, ESNZ High Performance Operations Manager, noted that there will be “Three Trans Tasman’s happening this year….we have reported that as a milestone as I can’t recall when this has happened previously”.  

Will Enzinger, EA High Performance Director highlighted the importance of the initiative: “This will provide valuable development opportunities for our dressage athletes, while delivering an outstanding competition experience. The other Olympic disciplines of Eventing and Jumping have seen the benefits of team-based competition — particularly the exposure to team culture”.

This inaugural return will feature a dynamic mix of combinations, including seasoned Grand Prix riders, developing combinations, and emerging Young Riders. Each nation will field Grand Prix and Young Rider combinations.

Don’t miss the chance to witness the performances that will decide the 2026 Trans-Tasman Challenge, we invite you to Sydney CDI to help cheer on both Federations.  The Grand Prix Freestyle Saturday night will be the last scoring opportunity to decide the 2026 winning team.  Come be a part of the return of a true test of team spirit.

• 1^st Point score Classes: Thursday 30 April CDI-Y Team and Grand Prix
• 2^nd Point Score Classes: Saturday 2 May CDI-Y Freestyle and Grand Prix Freestyle

Young Rider Team

AUS – Tia Rose McKenzie/Phenomenon and Rosemary Heagney/MSJ Nemo
NZL – Samantha Belsham/Donero RH and Piper Crake/Georgia MH

Senior Team

AUS – Mary Hanna/Ivanhoe and Tanisha Ryan/Prequel
NZL – Wendi Williamson/Don Vito MH