Hazel Shannon and Clifford, winner in 2014 Photo courtesy Furdography
Tamworth International Eventing’s August event has attracted so many entries that it will be held over three days at AELEC, for the first time in its six year history.
“It’s extremely exciting and encouraging to see this event go from strength to strength” Carolyn Campbell, Tamworth International Eventing President stated. “With over 440 entries received, we will be running the dressage phase for two of our international level classes on Friday, with the majority of the event held over Saturday and Sunday.”
Over 60 entries have been received for the international level classes, and competition is expected to be fierce, with four previous winners of the elite Three Star class returning to Tamworth with their eyes on the prize.
Hazel Shannon and her thoroughbred Clifford are one such combination, having emerged victorious in the Three Star class at Tamworth on three previous occasions. This successful combination have since won the 2016 Australian International Three Day Event in Adelaide, and now have their sights set on selection to represent Australia at next year’s World Equestrian Games in the USA.
Katie Taliana from Wilberforce has won the Three Star Class in Tamworth with her imported horse Trevalgar II in 2013 and 2015, this year she will ride both Trevalgar II and her thoroughbred Friday Street in the class. Previous winners Jessica Rae and Rascal, and Soigne Jackson and Warrego Collateral Damage are also entered in the elite Three Star Class.
Andrew Barnett from Keinbah is the only male rider entered in the top class, and it will be the first start at this level for Andrew and his horse Bradgate Park Fonzie, who have dominated at the Two Star Level in 2016 and 2017.
Many local riders will be competing at the event, with every level of eventing competition scheduled, from the 45cm Encourager class right through to the Elite Level.
“Eventing is so unique, we bring all types of horses and riders together at one competition, there are a lot of families and volunteers that are involved, and our course here in Tamworth is one of the most spectator friendly venues around” said President Carolyn Campbell. “The majority of the cross country action will take place on Sunday and with entry free to the public, we hope to see a great crowd out on course cheering the riders and horses on.”
The international classes will complete the cross country phase from 11:30am to 2pm on Sunday, and will show jump in the indoor arena on Saturday afternoon from 3pm to 6:30pm.
