Stuart and Cascavall at Quirindi before rain stopped play
More rain and sadly another event cancelled in NSW. Last weekend Quirindi Eventing tried to bring us an event, but the rain Gods were against us yet again!
For all those who involved at Quirindi International it was a sad moment when the heavens opened on dressage day, causing the event to cancel due to potential dangers of too much water on the grounds. It was a wise call, as Quirindi became waterlogged - we can’t thank the Organising Committee enough for trying but it was not meant to be.
But we can give you a brief run down on the dressage day.
Stuart was riding Viennese in the CCI3*S. This was his first run after their second place in the CCI2*-L at Melbourne International 3DE and, by all accounts, the conditions of the rings were 'sticky' plus the rain was very persistent. We were a little confused by the dressage judging with a 65%, a 55% and a 69%. Certainly not a mild difference in judging with one judge showing a 10-14% difference and we are yet to be enlightened.
On the other hand, Stuart took the ride on Tia McKenzie's Cacavall, returning to Eventing after being a jumper and dressage horse for Tia. It was a very solid test, 71% putting them in first place in the 95cm and Gemma was very happy with her sub 30 penalties, coming in with a 70% in the CCI4*-S
But that was the end of the competition and, having left on the Thursday for Quirindi, the whole team were home by late Friday night!
Some positive news is the nomination of Gemma and Diabolo for World Championships at Pratoni 2022. Being in the top 15 is a huge credit to her and 'Dab' so we were all thrilled with the announcement. However, it was not her time to be in the eight named (team and reserves) but congratulations to all that have been recognised.
Gemma will now aim for Wallaby Hill 3DE CCI4* in December and Adelaide 3DE CCI5* in April.
Karen Tinney awarded Australian Sports Medal
'It was an absolute honor to have been a part of the Australian Eventing team over the past three decades. The Tokyo Olympics was the ultimate challenge for me mentally and physically. Putting myself forward as Stuart's groom for Leporis certainly pushed my limits.
However, it was enriching and illuminating being with other grooms that put their heart and soul into their job. Their love for the horse is mind-blowing and their work ethic extraordinary. The recognition by the Australian Olympic Committee with my 'Australian Sports Medal' gives me a feeling of satisfaction and triumph’ says Karen
CALENDAR:
SEPT 10/11th: SYDNEY @ SIEC- Diabolo 4*, Cascavall 95cm- Gemma
SEPT 16th-18th: World Championships at Pratoni, Rome ITALY - Stuart is High Performance Cross Country Consultant
SEPT 24/25th: CANBERRA Diabolo 4*, Cascavall TBC – Gemma
