Classic Equestrian Jumping On Show In Taupo
Monday, 1 December 2014
One of only seven Premier shows on the national Jumping circuit and, with over 900 horses expected to compete, it is largest Jumping-only show in the Southern Hemisphere.
This year’s show runs from Thursday 18th to Sunday 21st December and as always features some top class Jumping action.
Running for over 20 years, the Christmas Classic includes the internationally rated Ultramox World Cup and Excel Super League series as well as all the national series classes and some specialty feature events.
Geordie Bull, show director, says the Premier rated competition caters for everyone.
“We have classes for all levels – 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 Laurie (McVean) and Maurice Beatson.
“As well we are excited to have Helen McNaught-McFarlane and Duncan McFarlane, who have recently moved to Taupo, adding some international flavour to the show.”
The couple, Duncan a New Zealander and Helen from Britain, have spent many years competing and working in the Jumping scene in the United States and moved to New Zealand over the winter.
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Both have competed to the top level in the sport and have a very impressive team of horses making a mark on the New Zealand circuit already.
Geordie says its great to have riders of their caliber in the country and to have them locally based is an added bonus for the sport.
Competition, across the four arenas, starts on Thursday at 9am. The Telford Junior Rider and the Zilco Welcome Stakes 1.40m are the feature classes on the first afternoon.
Friday will see the Young Riders (aged under 21 years) in action followed by the Taupo Classic set at 1.35m to 1.45m in height.
Aside from the main Jumping competition there is plenty of other entertainment starting on Friday when Santa arrives at about 5pm - just prior to the very exciting Pony Six-Bar competition followed by the Terrier Racing Championships.
The Jumping competition heats up on Saturday, with the Pony Grand Prix and the Christmas Classic Power and Speed, in the build up to the Fiber Fresh Grand Prix, which includes the Ultramox World Cup and Super League Series at 4.30pm.
The final day will see riders raising the tempo and speed, as the challenge is on to find the National Show Jumping Derby Champion. This exciting competition requires riders to tackle an extended course of 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 and a number of local riders will compete. Spectators are welcome, trade and food stands available or bring a picnic and enjoy some thrilling equestrian competition.
