Early in the morning the indoor arena was used for the freestyle competitions. Music was pumping from the main arena and filtering over the surrounding parklands. Outdoor, some horse and riders were up for an early morning workout while others had a relaxed walk stopping for the occasional picking of grass.
At 8.30 sharp, the first horses competing in the Medium tests entered the arenas followed by the combinations for the Advanced Freestyle.
Next in the indoor was the Prix St Georges Challenge. This competition is a promotional competition showcasing Australia’s up and coming FEI horses. The 12 highest ranked combinations from during the calendar year of the competition are eligible. Two Wild Card entries were also invited. Due to the criteria, all competitors have a good chance of to win the Challenge. Once again, Tor Van Den Berge on Lauries As and Brett Parbery on DP Weltmieser battled it for the title. Brett ended up being the winner by only half a percentage mark with a score of 68.158.
After an hour break, the Intermediate Freestyle was under way. The seats started to fill with spectators settling in for the evening. There were nine riders from New South Wales, three from Queensland, two from Victoria and one from Western Australia. After two hours of strong competition, the placegetters were decided. First was Sheridyn Ashwood on Prestige VDL with a score of 68.750. Second went to the very talented Alexis Hellyer on Waca W, scoring 67.900 and third went to the beautiful big chestnut gelding, Feramo K with Judy Dierks on top (67.650).
As always, the Grand Prix Freestyle CDI-W was the highlight of the Championships. One by one, each competitor performed their carefully choreographed tests. As always, the best were left to last. The last three competitors were Heath Ryan on Regardez Moi, New Zealand rider Louisa Hill on Antonello and Rachael Sanna on Jaybee Alabaster. Heath managed to pull out of the hat a brilliant performance securing him third place with a score of 71.125. Second was Louisa Hill on her incredibly free moving horse, Bates Antonella, with a score of 72.275. The winner and most deserving combination were Rachael Sanna and her light footed partner, Jaybee Alabaster. The entire crowd were mesmerised as this combination created a performance and atmosphere that will not be forgotten for a long time in the world of Australian Dressage. Together, this horse and rider scored a well deserving score of 74.125.
The presentation finished close to 10.30pm. In only another ten hours time it will all start again. The last day consists of the Novice, Advanced, Intermediate I, and the Grand Prix Special. Another great day guaranteed at the Sydney International Equestrian Centre.
Related Links
Scores 2011 Australian Dressage Championships
Day Two of the 2011 Australian Dressage Championships
First Leg of Regional Olympic Qualifier Contested at 2011 CDI-W Sydney