Qualifying Events for the 2012 Equestrian Grand Final in Melbourne

Dressage

Australian Dressage News

Equestrian Australia has named the qualifying events for the 2012 Equestrian Grand Final Dressage, Jumping and Eventing. The Equestrian Grand Final is a spectacular multi-discipline event to be held at Equitana in Melbourne on 15-18 November.

This competition will showcase the ‘best of the best’ from the three Olympic disciplines. Including nearly 50 of the top riders from around the country, this premiere event will bring togetherAustralia’s elite Equestrian competitors in Dressage, Jumping and Exhibition.

The inaugural Equestrian Grand Final, held in 2011 was a great success with elite riders and fans.

The Equestrian Grand Final is a fun and exciting event. Bringing together the three Olympic disciplines makes it really special. I love it,” commented Megan Jones, Olympic Silver medallist.

Five-time Australian Jumping Champion, Chris Chugg agreed. “The Equestrian Grand Final is a feast of equestrian. It brings the atmosphere of Europe to Australia. Top competition, the crowds are up-close and personal with the action, what more could you want?”

The 2012 qualifying events are as follows:

DRESSAGE

22-24 Mar PSI Dressage & Jumping with the Stars CDI-W (Werribee, Vic)
03 - 05 May Sydney CDI3* (Horsley Park, NSW)
07-10 Jun Melbourne 3Day Event CDI-W (Werribee, Vic)
27-29 Jul Brisbane CDI (QSEC QLD)
31 Aug- 2 Sep NSW State Championships (Sydney, NSW)

How the athletes qualify

Dressage - 15 of Australia’s best Grand Prix Dressage riders and horses will be invited to compete in the Equestrian Grand Final Dressage. From the five qualifying events, the twelve combinations with the highest percentages from the Grand Prix Freestyle will automatically qualify for the Equestrian Grand Final. Combinations may compete at multiple qualifiers, with only their best result to count. Equestrian Australia reserves the right to award “wild card” entries for an additional 3 riders.