THE Mount Gambier Showjumping Club is set for its 22nd annual Junior and Young Rider Carnival, which starts tomorrow at Blue Lake Sports Park’s velodrome.
Riders will compete across four days, where equestrians have a chance to show their talent.
This year’s event has shown a rise in entries and Mount Gambier Showjumping Club president David Johnson expects a successful carnival.
“After a few years with minimal numbers, this year we are seeing a new influx of riders from across South Australia and Victoria, with people making the trip from Adelaide and North East Victoria,” he said.
“This is one of the very few show jumping events that is just for our up-and-coming riders.
“Riders are able to compete in the Junior section up to and including the year they turn 18 and Young Riders are those aged 16, up to and including the year they turn 21.”
Riders will compete in a range of classes, starting with a novelty event tomorrow to kick-start the weekend.
“It is a good fun way to get the rider and horse familiar with the arena inside the velodrome at the Blue Lake Sports Park,” Johnson said.
Competition turns more serious from there, with the championship classes contested from Saturday through to Monday.
“Jumping heights will start at 70cm and progress through to 130cm,” Johnson said.
“With increased numbers this year, expectations are high we will see a return of the state teams (South Australia v Victoria) for both the juniors and young riders.
“This event is where four riders are selected to represent their respective states.
“The class is run concurrently with standard classes, but will be judged separately.”
Joining the city-based and interstate riders will be a contingent of local talents, who are expected to perform well on their home turf.
“A number of local riders are expected to do well over the weekend,” Johnson said.
“Kane Johnson placed 11th in the National Junior Championship last month on his horse Twins Imperial K and will be keen to continue that form.
“Mackenzie Richards-Fennel on Showtym Shy and Ruby Kenny on Sprindell Rhionan will be two to watch in the 90cm Speed Championship, while other local riders looking to feature over the weekend are Chelsea Whicker, Chelsea Ray, Gemma Ralph, Lauren Miller and Noah Johnson.”
Thanks to the generosity of sponsors, the total prizemoney for the carnival totals nearly $8000, while winners of the speed and championship classes will receive embroidered rugs and have their names engraved onto the perpetual trophy shields.
There will also be awards for the best performed pony and thoroughbred off the track, with competitors accumulating points for placings throughout the weekend, which will then be tallied at the end of the carnival to decide the winner.
Entry to the event is free for spectators with ongoing commentary throughout the carnival, while food and drink is also available on site.
