Olympic Silver Medallist, Christopher Burton returns to adelaide as Festival Ambassador

Image credit Michelle Terlato Photography

Press Release - 4 February 2025

Adelaide, Australia – The Adelaide Equestrian Festival is thrilled to announce the addition of Christopher Burton, Australia’s celebrated Olympian and three-time 5***** eventing champion, as a Festival Ambassador for the 2025 event. Fresh from his remarkable achievement of winning a Silver Medal at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Chris returns to Adelaide - here he achieved his very first world-class podium finish - bringing his expertise and passion to the heart of this iconic event.

Chris is no stranger to success at Adelaide, having claimed the prestigious 5***** title twice before in 2008 and 2013. In 2025, he will be part of the festival’s Cross Country Preview, a brand new feature event presented by the CrossCountry App.

The Cross Country Preview will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025, bringing together a star-studded panel of experts to explore the design and challenges of the iconic Adelaide course. Mike Etherington-Smith, the renowned UK-based 5***** course designer, will lead the discussion, offering insights into designing a world-class course in an urban setting. The evening will also feature stunning drone footage of the Adelaide track, along with a look at how to use the free CrossCountry App interactive maps (www.crosscountryapp.com) for the best spectator experience.

Special guests Chris Burton and Shane Rose will share their unique perspective in a ‘Rider’s View’ segment, whilst recounting personal stories from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games by providing exclusive behind-the-scenes insights.

Guests attending the Cross Country Preview will be treated to a welcome drink upon arrival, with award-winning food cart vendors and bar serving premium South Australian beverages. The event is family-friendly and designed for eventing enthusiasts of all levels, offering an unforgettable evening of education, inspiration, and excitement as they delve into the complexities of a world-class event and the strategies riders employ during the pivotal phase of Cross Country competition.

Tickets are available now and expected to sell out quickly. This is a not-to-be-missed opportunity for anyone eager to learn from the best in the sport and relive the magic of Paris.

As part of his role as Festival Ambassador, Chris will also be hosting the Godolphin OTTB Masterclass on the morning of Saturday, May 3, in the Gillian Rolton Main Arena before the Cross Country action kicks off. Having won at the 5***** level three times—each time on a Thoroughbred—Chris is the ideal host for this special session. He will offer expert guidance to riders of Off-The-Track Thoroughbreds (OTTB) competing up to 3* level. Nominations are now open for four OTTBs to participate in this exciting masterclass, with submissions closing on Friday 28th March.

Don’t miss this chance to be coached by one of the worlds most accomplished eventers in Chris Burton, a three-time Olympian and dual Olympic medallist.

Chris Burton says: "I’m excited to return to Adelaide, where my international career really took off over two decades ago. It’s a special place for me, and I’m looking forward to sharing my passion, knowledge, and experiences with both fans and up-and-coming riders. I’m committed to helping contribute to Australia’s continued success on the world stage, and I can’t wait to be part of this incredible event."

For tickets and more information, visit [here].

To nominate for the Godolphin OTTB Masterclass, visit [here].

END

About Adelaide Equestrian Festival:

The Adelaide Equestrian Festival stands as Australia’s premier eventing competition, drawing elite riders, exceptional horses, and passionate equine enthusiasts from around the globe. Renowned for its world-class facilities and demanding cross-country courses, the festival not only celebrates the sport of eventing but also holds the distinction of being the largest equestrian event in the Southern Hemisphere.

About CrossCountry App:

A world-leading technology for Eventing, CrossCountry App is used by riders from Pony Club to Olympic Games to visualise their course and ride to time. Additional design and collaboration tools are invaluable to course designers and builders, organisers and officials. Learn more: www.crosscounrtyapp.com 

Media Contact:

Sarah Stokes

Publicity Manager

Parláre Public Relations

0412 658 390

Kirsty Withers

Festival Director

Adelaide Equestrian Festival

0408 804 806