Tim Boland made the interstate trip worthwhile
Much to the relief of all involved, and in true Melbourne style, the weather did a full turnaround for the three days of competition at the Friends of Werribee Park horse trials held last weekend, providing the most magnificent sunny conditions that were thoroughly enjoyed by everyone at the event!
Traditionally the opening event of the season in Victoria after the winter break that follows Melbourne International 3DE, the event attracted a record number of competitors this year eager to fight off those winter blues. All in all, 523 riders started at the event in 19 sections – a lot of riders for Australia, showing how this already popular event remains a favourite! The very small but amazing committee are very thankful to all of the section sponsors that came on board, and as a result there were lots of extra prizes this year.
The committee (some of whom also lend time to the upcoming Spring Horse Trials AND the Werribee Pony Club horse trials as well - all held within a month!) did a fabulous job accommodating so many competitors, and even managed to introduce some new initiatives along the way - including the opportunity to sponsor a jump as a token of support, and ice available at the vet check for just a gold coin donation thanks to the Werribee pony club members
The competition started on Friday with some of the seven classes of EvA80 completing dressage and showjumping that day and continued through until 4pm on Sunday when the final rider went through the finish flags.
The big prize was won by Tim Boland, who made the interstate trip worthwhile for Napoleon in the CNC*** class. After leading the dressage they added no jump faults just some time to their score to end on 40.9 penalties and take the win (Tim also finished 3rd in the CNC** class on Meno Park).
