A huge management infrastructure was put in place to
ensure that the Games provided fair and even competition for all
participants. However, a great system needs good management
people to see it through and Australia had a number of key officials
with the experience to keep the event running well. It was quite
an experience to witness just how many helpers were required to deliver
this standard of competition.
Comments were heard
regarding the scope and technical aspects of the three day event course.
Some argued the merits of the changes that had come about due to
the new Olympic format. I am told that a conservative approach in
the design of the course was adopted due to the hot weather that was
expected to affect Athens in August. (one forecast leading up to August
was to 'prepare for days of 45 degrees') Everyone agreed that the
safety and wellbeing of the riders and their horses was paramount.
Some felt that the cross
country course was not a true 'Olympic' track and favoured the good
moving horses with ability to do well in dressage. I heard it said
that the Athens track was not the same test that separated horses ... as
it has done in the past.
Aussies Neil Clinton and Vince Roche just back from
their day on the Cross Country course.
Channel 7's Gary
Wilkinson and EFA/AOC Committee person
Russ Withers take a wealth of knowledge and experience
to the superb call of the progress of riders on cross country day.
 |
 |
|
Geoff and Jill
Sinclair were at the Games in a technical capacity. |
Come on Aussie - our
riders!
Stuart Tinney on Jeepster
- 3 Day Event.
Andrew Hoy and Mr Pracatan - 3 Day Event.
Phillip Dutton and Nova
Top - 3 Day Event.
Rebel Morrow and Oaklea
Groover - 3 Day Event.
Olivia Bunn and Top of
the Line - 3 Day Event.
Ricky McMillan & Crisp -
Dressage
Mary Hanna & Limbo -
Dressage
Tim Amitrano and Mr
Innocent - Showjumping
All of the Aussies did a
great job - we missed out on the 'luck factor' in every area.
All of our riders did well to get to Athens, acclimatise and settle
their horses in order to start. They were considered the best
combinations in Australia at the time of their selection and it was
terrific to see them in action. Well done everyone.
|
Page
1 |
A General Overview
of the Equestrian Area |
|
Page 2 |
Presentations with a Traditional Greek
touch. |
|
Page 3 |
Indoor Arena, training and other facilities |
|
Page 4 |
Some of the Aussies helpers & Riders |
|
Page 5 |
Views to the Stables |
|
Page 6
|
Stables, facilities & some training pics. |
|
