What an off-season we are enjoying through our international riders! I hope you are enjoying the coverage on our Facebook page.

Badminton Horse Trials delivered a spectacular result for Caroline Powell and Greenacres Special Cavalier - from finishing last in 2023 to winning in 2024 - what a transformation! I might have awoken my neighbours with my scream of delight.

Before that, we had the FEI Dressage World Cup Final in Riyadh, where Melissa and Windermere J'Obei W had us beaming with pride. Placing in a Grand Prix Freestyle with a score of 73.807%, they have achieved 29th rank in the latest FEI Dressage World rankings - and on a horse bred outside of Europe!

Then, Wendi Williamson and Don Vito took Sydney by storm, clinching all three FEI Grand Prix classes at the CDI3* at Sydney CDI in impressive fashion. This combination is certainly one to watch as they solidify their partnership.

Looking ahead, we have Burghley coming up, followed by the Paris Olympics. There's so much to stay up all night for!

In this issue, our cover story celetrates two riders from the Manawatu region who are part of the Police Force and share a passion for everything equine.

We've also featured some fascinating dressage riders. Firstly, Susan Tomlin, who started at Pony Club, developed a passion for eventing and landed firmly with a love for dressage. Her story is truly inspiring.

Then there's Sarah Baker, whose passion for riding is equalled only by her love of landscapes, which she brings to life on canvas. Her art depicts the essence of our natural landscapes in a modern interpretation. I love it.

Henrike Puketapu, originally from Germany, now calls New Zealand home after falling in love with the country during her OE. Choosing New Zealand over Germany for this sport is a big call, but it is paying off. After starting in eventing, she has also developed a passion for dressage.

Anna Wilson, who juggles three part-time jobs and studies alongside her drive to succeed in dressage, exemplifies the diversity we often see. The common denominator is a love of horses!

Jesse Linton has long been on our radar for an interview. He has an exceptional talent for bringing on young horses, and we catch up with him following his move to Ohaupo Equestrian Centre.

 Based in Hawkes Bay with Mana Stables, Luke Dee has embarked on an exciting and ambitious plan to take his show-jumping career to the top level. With a partnership sharing his total commitment to the process and the purchase of a superstar horse in the making, Luke's journey will be one to watch.

We hope you enjoy our informative features. Also, check out the event coverage on our social media platforms.

Happy riding!

Until next time, happy riding everyone.

 

Sheryll Davies - Publisher.