The Tamworth Dressage Club’s 2018 Christmas in July Championships attracted one of its biggest and best fields over the weekend.
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Organiser Marjolyn Thomas said the event – now in its third year – had continually grown.
“In general, we received more entries than we budgeted for, more than we ever anticipated. We had an influx of professional riders from South East Queensland, the Hunter Valley and Sydney areas,” Thomas said.
Thomas added: “The Ebb and Flow arenas have really helped in attracting that South East Queensland crew. Having the state championships here next year – it gave them an opportunity to familiarise themselves with new arenas.”
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Thomas also said local riders matched it the visitors.
Tamworth Dressage Club president Allissia Curry, Spring Ridge’s Holly Sozou, Tamworth’s Madison Dernee, Moonbi’s Deborah Fulwood and Armidale trio Tonia Wheeler, Fiona Macarthur and Diana Gordon were amongst the riders named champion or reserve champion in their respective classes.
“The exciting thing about the results was there was a good mix of winners. We have a fair few local champions and reserve champions,” Thomas said.
“We haven't just had outsiders come in, win and go home. Our region held its own.”
CHAMPIONSHIP RESULTS
Another aspect of the 2018 championships that excited Thomas was the inclusion of the Para-Equestrian category.
“We had three entries but in addition to that, four local Riding for the Disabled Association competitors came and competed in the Para-Equestrian,” Thomas said.
“They had conversations with the para-riders to find out about the pathway to progress into the Para-Equestrian system.”
Other highlights included a masterclass by Olympic riders Katie Laurie and Sue Hearn on Saturday while the event also attracted international judge Mary Robins.