I have been to Werribee Park on many occasions and I have never seen so many horse floats and trucks parked all over the huge complex.  This 'show day' had something for everyone, with western events including cutting and reining.  On the beautiful ring outside the main administration building there was a full program of stock horse classes.   Outside the Indoor arena there were a multitude of miniature ponies - all as cute as, and some in fancy dress!

Over on the lawn on the left as you drive in towards the indoor, the rings for the show classes were set up.  With Junior events, show and working hunters and ponies, Galloways and hacks.

On the polo field there was ... polo!   Showjumping classes were conducted just over,  on the purpose built sand arena. 

On the dressage rings it seemed that there no official classes, but there was lots activity from the people who were doing some last minute practise for tomorrows short course eventing competition.

The organisation for such a huge event must have been enormous, I looked into the Equitana office and had a quick word to Adrienne Smith - an executive from Definitive Events - the event organisers, and she was delighted with the huge crowd and felt a great deal of satisfaction having worked for two years to make this event possible.

Following the inaugural Equitanta Asia Pacific which was held in November 1999, the concept has grown and at this Equitana, many more classes were included, and it can truly be said that there is something of interest for every horse lover.

Many of the classes held today and tomorrow are the qualifying rounds, with the finals being held at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre from Thursday 22nd through to Sunday 25th.  For all of the riders who make it through to the final, the opportunity to ride in the heart of the city, with an audience of thousands will be a highlight of their riding achievements that they will never forget.

If you get a chance to go long to The Melbourne Exhibition Centre on any of the days or for The Mane Event, which is a theatrical horse extravaganza - you will not be disappointed.  The show is magical, dramatic and very informative.  I loved it two years ago and plan to go to two of the sessions this time.

Bo Peep is
Elouise Lando
from Landohle Park
in Glenburn, Vic.

They were conducted
on the beautiful area
in front of the
Administration
Building.