Armidale Riding Club will be holding its annual Dressage Festival this weekend, October 21 and 22 at the Equestrian Centre in Kennedy St, Armidale. It is the largest event on the Armidale Riding Club Calendar.
The competition attracts riders from across NSW and interstate every year and 2012 is no exception, with riders and horses coming from Queensland and across NSW. Over 90 horses will be competing, riding over 230 tests, with over $3000 in prize money up for grabs, along with a number of trophys and Championship rugs.
Horse and rider combinations will be competing at a range of levels, from “Preliminary” level where the foundations of training are being established, right through to “Prix St George” where much more complex and demanding movements are required.
A number of expert judges will be in attendance, from as far afield as Sydney, Scone, Taree and Tamworth to judge the tests.
Many local businesses are supporting the event through sponsorship and these are: AARNet, APJ Law, Bruno Schaffner Equine Sports Massage, Burton’s Saddlery, Equestrian Excellence, Farleigh Stud, Gosh Hairdressing, Hardmans Armidale, Infinity for Skin, Jacksons Quality Meats, Moxon’s Bakery, National Buildplan Group, New England Veterinary Centres, Norco Rural, Phillip Jarvis & Associates, RBS Morgans and Roberts & Morrow
Spectators will be most welcome, entry is free and a full canteen will be operating on the day.