Main image: Shane Rose and Easy Turn winning the CCI4* at the 2023 edition of Canberra International Horse Trials. Image by Fiona Gruen/Wallaroo Equestrian.
The organising committee behind Canberra International Horse Trials (National Capital Horse Trials Association), headed by Kate Mackenzie, is thrilled to have the inspirational Paris Olympian, Shane Rose, in the draw. Shane’s last major stay in the nation’s capital was at the AIS for his incredible rehab heading into Olympic selection, the only horse he was allowed was a hobby horse stuck to his bike! This trip to the Capital will be much more fun, because he brings a team of real horses to ride and is hoping to repeat his 2023 winning CCI4*S performance at this event!
Kate Mackenzie, the Canberra International Horse Trials event organiser. Image by Fiona Gruen/Wallaroo Equestrian.
Shane Rose and Easy Turn winning the CCI4* at the 2023 edition of Canberra International Horse Trials. Image by Fiona Gruen/Wallaroo Equestrian.
Top course designers
Over 260 combinations will be challenged by the rejigged cross country courses. Ewan Kellett has created the Capital Asphalt CCI4*S course. Grant Johnson has designed the Wallaby Hill CCI3*S; and Ben Smith the Completely Equine CCI2*S and the Horseland & Abbey Health CCN1*. While the three- and four-star classes are light on entries this year, the depth of the entry list is strong; competition for the top spots will be tight. Time is always a challenge, which may favour the off-the-track Thoroughbreds this year. The show jump course designer is the clever Alan Ghafouri, and it will reward the well trained, careful and adjustable horse.
Local cross country course designer Grant Johnston is pretty excited to return to the venue to design the CCI3*. His depth of experience, both riding and knowledge of the park – which he has been involved since 1995 – is an added bonus! Grant’s boundless enthusiasm for the sport is no less, even after trading four legs for two wheels, he has just added another way to get dirty and keep fit.
Grant Johnston, the local CCI3* course designer. Image by Fiona Gruen/Wallaroo Equestrian.
Abbey McKenzie dressing one of the jumps; the course is looking a picture at Equestrian Park! Image by Brianna Harris.
Canberra at its best
Canberra in spring is at its best, and for the non-horsey part of the support teams, the city offers the Floriade flower festival at Commonwealth Park, the fantastic Gauguin exhibition at the National Gallery, the National Zoo just over the bridge, the stunning Arboretum in full bloom, and Tulip Tops on the Federal Highway.
We wish the competitors, their support teams and their wonderful horses, the very best of luck for a great weekend of eventing. We thank the sponsors and incredible volunteers that make this event happen.
The draws and event information can be found via the event website.
Location: Equestrian Park, Cotter road, Curtin ACT
Date: 13-15 September
Timetable:
Friday: 1pm start (dressage)
Saturday & Sunday: 8am – 4.30pm (cross country and show jumping)
Entry is free!
