The heat is on as Battle of the Borders makes a comeback
LATE summer is showtime and the hacks are spending more time plaited and dressed up than loafing in a paddock. Two massive shows in Victoria are followed by the Battle of the Borders at the Albury Wodonga Equestrian Centre.
It’s the next popular step to Canberra Royal Show then on to the Grand National, the finale for the show horses in Sydney.
The show began eight years ago and is conducted by the Northern Vic and Borders Show Horse Council sub-committee.
More than 150 horses competed at the event, held in hot conditions with the smallest competitors seen dipping into an inflatable pool between events.
Many of the best local show horse riders competed and did well, all aiming to gain their Grand National qualifier or just to expose their new young show horses to an arena atmosphere.
“Over the last two years we have had to cancel due to Covid and floods but our competitors, volunteers and sponsors have stood by us and continued to support our event,” committee member Jodie McClellan said.
A highlight of the show was the Laura Berben Memorial class, held in recognition of the dedicated show horse competitor from the area who lost her fight with breast cancer.
The entry money for this class is donated to the McGrath Foundation. The committee was delighted to have bumper entries , with the win going to Briah Baker riding MT Vogue.
The Garryowen winner Wynara Signature won champion child’s hack with Jessica Sharp riding.
Madeline Preedy and Salisbury Cracker Jack won champion preliminary show hunter pony not exceeding 14hh. The Preedys bought him last November and Maddy was jumping him at the Wangaratta Pony Club Showjumping Championships the following month showing he’s not just a pretty face.
The supreme home-produced mount (for horses not trained by professionals) was won by Venita Bachetto riding Secret Angel of KVL, the supreme child's exhibit was won by Tahlia Wells riding Tuscany Petite Serenade and the mini championship went to Dalgangle Picadilly.
GALLERY
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ABOVE: All images JODI BUSSELL of Grain & Mane Photography
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