READY TO GO: Cathie Drury-Klein, Trevor Klein and John Healey putting the finishing touches to the world-class indoor arena at Bradgate Park, where some of the nation’s best dressage riders will compete over the next four days. Photo: STEVE GOSCH ` 0212sghorse1
TODAY marks the start of four days of majestic dressage competition in Orange attracting riders and judges from across the world.
Dressage with Altitude is returning to Orange for a fourth year and will be held at the impressive Bradgate Park property on the eastern outskirts of Orange which boasts an Olympic-sized performance arena.
The event has downsized from last year, when it was seen as a last effort for riders and horses to be eligible for selection in the Australian Olympic equestrian team.
“We did have an awful lot of competitors last year, so we have changed the competition to make it more manageable with less riders,” event spokesperson Trina Redenbach said.
Temporary stables have been erected at Bradgate Park which has proved to be a popular venue for competitors who have returned each year, Ms Redenbach said.
“They comment that the view overlooking the lake to Mount Canobolas is magnificent and so picturesque and we are very fortunate to have such a venue,” she said.
As well as a lineup of top riders of world-class standard, international judges Gustaf Svalling from Sweden and Anne Gribbons from the United States will join Australian judges Susie Hoevenaars, Mary Seefried and Helen Hughes-Keen.
Some sessions have been pre-booked with the Saturday night dinner function already a sellout.
However members of the public are invited along to the grand prix event tomorrow from 1.45pm to 4pm and events on Saturday from 3pm to 5pm.
Bradgate Park is located in Malabar Road on the eastern side off Orange.