Camden is gearing up to host the equestrian event of the year this weekend. Camden 2021 Equestriad will feature one of the few sports in the world where men and women compete against each other and young riders and amateurs can compete against Olympians.
Camden Bicentennial Equestrian Park will host this major event, which will showcase riders and horses competing in dressage, cross country and show jumping in their last opportunity to qualify for the Tokyo 2021 Olympics.
Shane Rose Eventing president Shane Rose says there will be a fun, family friendly atmosphere at Camden 2021 Equestriad – which will be free for spectators.
“Eventing is the ultimate test of horse and rider combinations,” Mr Rose said.
“Each rider has to pilot the horse across three different phases of competition – dressage, cross country and show jumping.
“The audience will get to watch as the horses have to transform from beautiful, controlled movements in the dressage, to galloping quickly jumping over big fixed obstacles in the cross country, to back to being very careful in the show jumping, clearing obstacles which can be knocked over very easily.
“All this is done against the clock, with competitors of all ages and genders competing against one another.
“My pick for the day is definitely the cross country,’’ Mr Rose said.
“It’s the most exhilarating part of eventing for me. Watch horses jump over fixed obstacles, into and through water jumps and gallop quickly between obstacles, all for time – you’ll see the riders constantly checking their stopwatches.
“Bring a picnic blanket or camp chairs, pick the jump you find the most interesting and have a picnic while watching these amazing horses and riders.”
Mayor of Camden, Cr Theresa Fedeli, said it was exciting to have a world class event right here in Camden.
“This is the perfect opportunity for residents to watch an exciting display of competition while enjoying the beautiful Camden Town Centre and the many fantastic local businesses we have here,” she said.
“I recommend making a day of it – come to see the competition and maybe stay for lunch or dinner and even sightsee across the area.”
