2013 CCI3* winner Katja Weimann Photo: Equine Images
Equestrian Victoria (EV) has announced an agreement with privately owned events company, Nodding Horse Pty Ltd, to deliver the 57-year old Melbourne International Horse Trials at Werribee Park precinct on the Queen’s Birthday weekend from Friday 6 to Monday 9 June, 2014.
The new partnership will see the hallmark competition, formerly known as the Melbourne International Three Day Event (MI3DE), relaunched as the Melbourne International Horse Trials (MIHT).
As part of the new venture, horse and rider combinations will compete at the MIHT in Junior CCI*, CCI*, CCI** and CCI*** classes for a prize pool of more than AU$50,000.
Event director, Michael Hands, a veteran of major international sporting events said the Melbourne International Horse Trials would be Victoria’s premier sporting and social event on the Queen’s Birthday weekend.
“We aim to build on what has become a spectacular long weekend of entertainment at the idyllic Werribee Park precinct.
“The 2014 MIHT will be a true showcase of Australian equestrian talent in preparation for the 2014 World Equestrian Games and the 2016 Rio Olympics,” Mr Hands said.
Committed to offering world-class facilities at the 2014 MIHT, the revamped cross-country course will be designed by Ewan Kellet.
Three-time Olympian, international judge and EV Chairman Barry Roycroft said the partnership marks a new chapter for Australia’s eventing scene and will strengthen the country’s position as a leader in equestrian sports.
“As a long-time participant, I am excited by the opportunities the partnership will bring to the Melbourne International Horse Trials and the wider equestrian community,” Mr Roycroft said.
The MIHT provides visitors with a full weekend of entertainment, where they can enjoy the action at Werribee National Equestrian Centre and off course at the heritage listed Victoria state rose garden, Werribee Park Mansion and Werribee Open Range Zoo.
The MIHT will commence on Friday, 6 June 2014 with the dressage phase, followed by CCI** and CCI*** dressage on Saturday, 7 June, cross-country on Sunday, 8 June and the final phase of competition, showjumping on Monday, 9 June.
