Following a series of stunning performances seen on Thursday, the CCl4*-S and the Adelaide International CCl5* dressage unfolded before spectators’ eyes on the iconic Gillian Rolton Main Arena.
In their debut at the level, the 2022 FEI World Championship and Olympic combination of Shenae Lowings and thoroughbred Bold Venture lead the prestigious CCI5*L with a score of 27.4.
Their score is reminiscent of Shane Rose and Virgil’s 28.1 dressage score achieved at Adelaide CCI5* in 2023. If Shenae and Bold Venture can produce a sub-30 finishing score, it’s certainly a very solid start to a 2026 FEI World Championship campaign. What an exciting start to the CCI5*L!
Next best is Hazel Shannon and WillingaPark Clifford with 30.3 penalties, their best five-star score at Adelaide on their sixth attempt – and the exact score they posted as part of the Aussie team at the 2022 FEI World Championships in Italy. Their previous best at Adelaide CCI5* was 30.7, which they achieved on their way to winning their third title in 2019. Only their 29.9 at Badminton was a better five-star score for the combination.
In third is Andrew Cooper and Hey Arnold, who also pulled out an Adelaide CCI5*L personal best on their third attempt, scoring 33.4. This combination were unlucky on cross country last year in Adelaide, but this will be out of mind and Andrew will no doubt be going for a clear and under time round tomorrow.
CCl4*-S dressage results
First place: Shane Rose, EASY TURN, (AUS) with 29.1 penalties
Second place: Cathryn Herbert, WIMBORNE CONSTABLE, (AUS) with 30.5 penalties Third place: Hannah Klep, TULARA CHICOUVE, (AUS) with 32.9 penalties
Gear up for RB Sellars Cross Country Day
This years’ 4-star and 5-star Australian and New Zealand equestrian riders and their horses delivered exceptional routines for the final day of dressage before riders prepare for the next phase – cross country – which is set to commence from 9:30am tomorrow (Saturday 3 May, 2025).
In a first for the Adelaide Equestrian Festival, spectators were treated to a unique, interactive and insightful two-part Masterclass series from Tristan Tucker (Netherlands) as he demonstrated the intricate ways that horse and rider can connect and learn from one another.
The diverse 2025 program also saw an engaging SAPOL Police Greys demonstration added to the premier line-up of events.
“The Adelaide Equestrian Festival continues to go over and above to deliver a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a program that sees spectators visit us year after year,” Mr Rolton said.
“We cannot wait to see what the RB Sellars Cross Country Day brings. With sunny skies ahead, a great family-friendly offering and the very best equestrian action that sprawls all the way to Rymill Park – it’s not to be missed.”
