Dream surface, inviting courses make Mount Gambier a winner

ABOVE: Lamoza Velisha and Masterson NZ flying through their show jumping round of the CCN1*. They went on to finish in fourth place overall. Picture: TY MANNING/EQUESTRILENS

THE Mount Gambier Horse Trials has once again proved to be a highlight of the South Australian eventing calendar, attracting top riders from across South Australia and Victoria.

The event, renowned for its challenging yet beautifully designed courses, delivered an unforgettable experience for both competitors and spectators.

The cross-country course, the centerpiece of the weekend, was particularly well-received this year.

Designed with a blend of flowing lines and more technical questions, it provided an inviting challenge for riders at all levels.

The course allowed horses to stretch out and gallop, but also tested their precision and control through more complex combinations of fences.

Event director Jodi Widdison said this year marked a return to a full program.

“We have always run a two star and up until 2019 we ran a strong three-star competition,” she said.

“After COVID, Mount Gambier had a few years off and 2023 was our first year back on the calendar when we ran up to and including a two star in November.

“This year was the first year back having the three star and with Mick Pineo and Jarryd Stanley building, we put a lot of time into this course.

“It rode well and riders were very supportive of what we had done.”

ABOVE: Winner of the CCN3.5* class Connie Miller riding Delicato. Picture: EQUESTRILENS

ABOVE: Tahnee Dodgson and Wynara Sweet Justice compete in their dressage test. Picture: EQUESTRILENS

ABOVE: Lisa Fritsch and Fowl Play working through their dressage phase. Picture: EQUESTRILENS

Although numbers in the higher levels were small this year, riders are fully supporting the event’s direction and commitment to building upon what was a premium event this year.

This year winner of the CCN3* class, Rachelle Verma, said the event was a perfect lead-in to other competitions.

“Two weeks before Friends of Werribee Park Horse Trials, Mount Gambier Horse Trials is ideal for the first run of the season,” she said.

“I can’t guarantee perfect sunny weather as we had last weekend, but I can guarantee that the sandy/loamy going will be perfect to gallop on.

“Add to that a professionally run event, it really is an event not to be missed.”

With its successful blend of excellent competition, venue and the camaraderie of a riders’ party on the Saturday night, the Mount Gambier Horse Trials continues to grow in stature.

With fantastic going it's a great way to start the second half of the eventing season.

Section winners were:

SAEEM 50cm – Bre-anna Wright and Quarta Cuppa Coco

SAEEM 65cm – Imogen Carmichael and Little Black Suzi

SAEEM 80cm – Rebecca Fidge – Jag Fonzarelli

EvA 95cm – Ella Beissel and Fiction

CCN1* – Amelie Morelli and ESB Irish Illusion

CCN2* – Christina Grear and Dalis

CCN3* – Rachelle Verma and Sandhills Crystella

CCN3.3* – Connie Miller and Delicato

ABOVE: Amanda Usher and Highrail Pandemonium exiting the water jumping during their cross country phase. Picture: EQUESTRILENS

ABOVE: Lynda Field and Dunce Gambler confidently clearing the SAEEM 80cm brush fence. Picture: EQUESTRILENS

ABOVE: Indy Berden excited about a dressage test that led her into the EvA95cm placings. Picture: EQUESTRILENS

View and purchase EQUESTRILENS images from this event

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