What a brilliant event we had last week at Wandin Park. Many thanks to Jarryd Stanley and the whole team involved in running such a huge event, the OC did a fabulous job and the grounds looked stunning!
Sam had 9 rides in total so it was hectic right from the get go.
Woodmount Lolita (Lily) stole the show for Fiona Mitchell winning the 4* to give Sam his first win at that level!
But the rest of our team produced some amazing performances too!
Koyuna Tactician is back at 3 star level and is proving he will be a force to be reckoned with, a consistent dressage test and the fastest horse in the 3star cross country saw him finish in 4th place.
Both Wimborne Conjuror (Fiona Mitchell) and Santoro (Santoro Syndicate: Craig Sanderson & Lisa Rudelic) produced lovely dressage tests and really flaunted their athleticism in the cross country, and despite 2 frustrating rails Santoro finished 4th in his section.
Equus Helenik was another 4th placing for Sam, this time in the CCN1* for Pip Hodson. She produced a lovely dressage test and made light work of the cross country, unfortunately 1 pesky rail cost her the win but we are happy to step her up to 2 star very soon!
Sam also had Mr Spot in the 1star for Rachael Edwards, and just for consistency he took out a 4th place too!
The babies of the team all gained valuable experience at EvA80 level, Sue Enright’s Danson Accent continues to show improvement, as does ESB Irish Malt for Leanne McLean and our own Cherry Hill Harmony.
Our behind the scenes crew worked like slaves all weekend to keep Sam on horses that were perfectly groomed and cared for and looked amazing, thank you Paige, Michele, Elise, Max, Carrie, Kasey and Ella.
Being a local event it was great to have some sponsors along in person to share the experience Elite Equine Veterinarians, The Saddlery Shop.
There is no way we ever could’ve pulled it off without the fantastic Bates Saddles — the horses love them and so do we!!
Thanks also to the fabulous fitting Flexible Fit Equestrian gear, and our other sponsors James and Son Premium Horse Feed (Castlegate James), Natural Mobility, Equus Rugs, and Sharnika Design.
Looking forward to the rest of the season!
XC Photo credit: Tara Reynolds