TAUPO EQUESTRIAN JUMPING EXTRAVAGANZA
An extravaganza of equestrian Jumping will be on display at Taupo's Fiber Fresh National Equestrian Centre next week when horses from around the country converge for some top class action.
The Fiber Fresh National Equestrian Centre in Taupo hosts the show, from 19th – 22nd December, which is the largest showjumping event in New Zealand.
Running for over 20 years, the Christmas Classic features the internationally rated Bayer World Cup and Super League series as well as all the national series classes and some specialty feature events.
Geordie Bull, show director, says the three-star rated competition caters for everyone.
“We have classes for everyone – from kids on ponies at their first recognised jumping event, to adult amateurs as well as the country's best World Cup riders, including Olympians Katie McVean, Samantha McIntosh and Maurice Beatson. Plus all the national stars and young talent like Luke Dee, Logan Massie and Jake Lambert.”
Aside from the exciting jumping competition there is plenty of other entertainment starting on Friday afternoon when Santa arrives – thanks to a lift from the Pirongia Fresians - just prior to the very exciting Pony Six-Bar competition followed by the Terrier Racing Championship.
The jumping competition heats up on Saturday in the build up to the Fiber Fresh Grand Prix which includes the Bayer World Cup and Super League Series on from 4.30pm.
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Saturday commences with the final round of the Taupo District Council Events
Capital Great Lake Challenge followed by ESNZ 7 Year Old Horse Series,
Country 99 TV / Barbara Thomson Photography Pony Grand Prix and the thrilling
Peppers on the Point Horse Power and Speed Championship.
The final day will see riders raising the tempo and speed as the challenge is on to find the National Jumping Derby Champion. This exciting competition requires riders to tackle an extended course of show jumping fences as well as a number of natural obstacles – whilst riding against the clock.
“It’s a really fun show with a great Christmas feel about it. Riders, officials, volunteers, sponsors and spectators always seem to love coming along to the festivities at the Christmas Classic – it’s a must do in many people’s diary and a great lead up to Christmas!”
Over 400 riders are expected to take part, with over 800 horses entered.
“Riders travel from all over the North Island and even a few South Island competitors make the trip to Taupo. Plus there are a good number of local riders competing across the grades,” Geordie says.
“Its fantastic for the younger local riders to be able to compete at a show of this size right on their door step. The Fiber Fresh Xmas Classic is the second largest equestrian event in the country to the Horse of the Year Show in Hastings.”
Spectators are welcome, trade and food stands available or bring a picnic and enjoy some thrilling equestrian competition.
Entry is free.
ENDS
For more information, please contact: Jo Bell
Mob: 021 775 973
Email:
[email protected]
