The crowd on Cross Country day was huge and could
have provided a great social occasion for most 'horsey people' who came
along to enjoy this special day. The weather was kind and invited
the opportunity to mingle and chat with like minded enthusiasts.
However, most of us were too enthralled with the
action to risk missing a second and the 'mobile' crowd walked purposefully
through the course of 30 or so obstacles, with their total attention fixed
on the action. This is such an exciting day and I would highly
recommend those of you who have not had a day watching the Cross Country
phase of the Melbourne Three Day - treat yourself to a special experience
on Queen's Birthday weekend in 2005 - you will be hooked forever!
The
Melbourne Three Day course was designed by Michael Creber (right) who is a
'professional' eventing Course Designer . Michael flies all over the
world for the organising committees of the most prestigious competitions.
His picturesque course includes a mix of technical, interesting and
aesthetic obstacles to challenge the world's best 3 day event riders.
You did a great job with this one Michael.
EFA (National Office) Chief Executive Franz Venhaus and
his wife Toni made the trip to Melbourne to enjoy a stroll around Michael
Creber's course. Franz was getting over a cold, so came rugged up
against Melbourne's winter weather.
The Ground Jury - deep in conversation
on Showjumping day - from left ... Michael Creber, Angela Tucker (GB) David
Shepherd, Vince Roche, Brian Schrapel and Val McKenzie.
Two members of Victoria's Mounted Police Force enjoy
their pleasant engagement keeping an eye on the crowd - in particular
safety issues - in the beautiful
grounds of Werribee Park (as shown below) Congratulations to the
Mansion gardeners and maintenance team for a job very well done.
Back inside, the riders prepare for
their journey cross country in the well appointed 10 Minute Box.
This facility was thoughtfully positioned in the second indoor arena which
provided great protection from the biting winter winds. This
location was also used to facilitate some of the trader's stands and so
spectators were able to browse and shop while they waited to see their
favourite combinations check in for their start. The trade stands
were very popular and Horseland
launched its end of financial year sale, so people flocked to get their bargains.
Melbourne 3 Day Committee Chairperson Mike Sullivan
says hello to the Horseland
model who looked very snug in his gorgeous and trendy
Weatherbeeta
'combo' - I was one who could not resist the bargain prices that were on
offer.
Heath Ryan congratulates the winner of the CIC-W ***
competition - Sonja Johnson from Western Australia who rode her 13 YO
stock horse gelding Ringwould Jaguar to victory. Heath knows what it takes
to be a winner at this level - and his sincere wishes were much appreciated
by Sonja, who was a wonderfully gracious and composed winner.
Most of the younger spectators
would be fans of the TV program 'Horse Rush' seen on Thursday nights on
SBS - the enthusiastic crew were involved taking film clips of most
aspects of the competition they are pictured here with Gabrielle Preat
from Potties who make a fantastic
range of Horse Health products and have quite recently launched a bright
new image and some great new products - be sure to visit their web site.
