Sydney International Horse Trials has unveiled a spectacular new fence for the 2014 event.
The Sydney Opera House inspired jump was designed by artist Anwen Keeling, jump builder Brett Ryan and course designer Stuart Tinney who fittingly was part of the gold medal winning Sydney 2000 Olympic team. Built by Millgate Fabrications of Scone and Brett Ryan, it will be an impressive addition to the Sydney cross country course.
The fence will be located at the top of the hill leading down to the second water complex and will be jumped by the one and two star riders who, according to Event Director Rose Read, will find that quite a lot of additional resources have gone into their courses this year.
Cassandra Webb riding Dutch Determination jumps the new Sydney Opera House fence Photo: Franz Venhaus
Also new this year is the public bar and café at the water pond on cross-country day.
“We want to make a centralised social hub where you can eat and drink and catch up with friends whilst watching the action,” says Rose “It’s a great spot on the course as you can see quite a number of jumps from this location and we will be running a shuttle to the water pond throughout the day”
Another, slightly larger, bus will be running from Centennial Park on Saturday and Sunday so that people can commute from the city and leave the car behind. This may be the perfect option for those who want to enjoy the public bar at the water pond – no designated driver required!
For parents wishing to have a little quiet time at the café there is also the new “kids zone” which will feature a jumping castle, face painting, a petting zoo, pony rides and even a crèche. Parents will be able to leave their children (aged 5 -12) here for a few hours and know that they will be looked after and entertained. Equestrian Australia is will provide their educational “Ready Set Trot” activities and the kids can expect a visit from “Gee Gee” the mascot. We’re wondering if it’s a co-incidence that many riders and organisers involved in the event have recently had families?
To find out more about ticketing and what else is happening at Sydney International Horse Trials click on the banner below. Don't forget you can win one of six Cross Country Apps we are giving away, enabling you to view the new Sydney course map when it is unveiled on April 24th
