Australia’s premier International Dressage Event (and only one at three star level), a magnate for all horse lovers will offer the best of the best this year at Sydney’s International Equestrian Centre at Horsley Park
from Thursday 27 April to Sunday 1 May 2005.
The arrival of the new Grand Prix horses preparing for the International Competitions in Europe always makes the first year following an Olympics interesting – these are the horses with Beijing in their sights as well as the World Championships in Germany next year.
This year, the popular Freestyle to Music climax of the 3 Grand Prix Dressage events will take place on Saturday night, 30 April. During the whole of Saturday, Freestyles at Advanced and Intermediate Level will showcase new talent during the day – the accent entertainment and music.
Showjumping on Saturday and Sunday extend the variety of competitions for everyone to enjoy - a very comprehensive programme. Young Horse Qualifiers for both dressage and jumping will be held in conjunction with the event. The Final Round with a guest rider takes place for both disciplines on the on Sunday.
Riders from Canada, Great Britain and the USA have been invited to take part on borrowed horses in the small tour. New Zealand riders will cross the Tasman to compete on their own horses in both the small and big tour.
One of the highlights of the event is the Prix St Georges Derby. Two riders from each country take part, drawing a horse out of the hat. They have half an hour before their test to familiarise themselves with their mount before riding the Prix St Georges test. It is a fun competition but one that the riders take very seriously.
The judging panel this year includes, Mr Eric Lette (O level Sweden), Mrs Lilo Fore (USA), Mr Uwe Spenlen (GER), Ms Minako Furouka (JPN), mrs Kathinka de Monchy (NZL) as well as leading judges from around Australia.
General enquiries, Toni Venhaus: Tel: 02 8825 8065 or email tvenhaus@tpg.com.au or view the website www.sydneycdi.com.