Photos courtesy Ella Bradshaw of SP Photography
Riverina Equestrian Association Wagga Wagga Horse Trials Club held the inaugural One Day Event, attracting over 200 entries which is expected to double in the coming years due to the high quality facilities on offer at Charles Sturt University, with 4 sand outdoor all weather sand/rubber mix surface arenas and an indoor sand arena, stables, covered yards, rubber surfaced wash bays, round yards for lunging and an amenities block due for completion within the coming months the facilities on offer for riders is unparalleled in southern New South Wales. REA WHT have added 2 inaugural awards, an exciting joint venture with the Murrumbidgee Turf Club is the trophy for best performed off the track thoroughbred, and the John Vicary Memorial trophy for best performed junior in EvA60 classes.
With show jumping for 2** Combined Training, 1* and EvA105 held Saturday evening under lights in the indoor arena, it gave competitors an opportunity to experience a more energetic atmosphere in preparation for the upcoming M3DE. An amazing meal complete with carving chef was enjoyed by all in attendance.
The experience of using the high class facilities was spread across all classes with Dressage being held on sand for every grade along with show jumping in the indoor arena for every grade. The Craig Gordon and Hunter Doughty designed cross country course rode exceptionally well with the addition of 14 portable fences and the completion of the new bank and sunken road complex, a few drops of rain over night coupled with the treatment and deposit of crusher dust on 80% of fences made for perfect footing around the course.
2015 is gearing up to be our biggest and best event yet, as our 40th Anniversary of eventing in Wagga Wagga along with major sponsors coming on board to support the event and further development of already outstanding facilities and the refurbishment of the 2** cross country track Wagga Horse Trials is coming back with a vengeance.
