For Immediate Release –  The Adelaide Park Lands turned it on for Day 3 of the Adelaide Equestrian Festival – RB Sellars Cross Country Day.  Perfect weather conditions set the scene for an action-packed day of adrenaline pumping galloping, jumping and challenging obstacles. This year, Olympian Christopher Burton joins us as an official Adelaide Equestrian Festival ambassador. Chris led a one-off Godolphin OTTB Masterclass in the morning from the Gillian Rolton Main Arena. The in-depth showcase provided spectators with insider tips, tricks and techniques to get the most out of off-track Thoroughbreds. His insightful and learned experiences and knowledge were warmly welcomed by event attendees. The morning session saw the Racing SA CCl3*-L riders take to the Cross Country course first. Australian rider Hannah Deegan finished in first on HK HAWTHORN with 28.8 followed by Oliver Barrett with SANDHILLS BRIAR on 29.7 and Amilia Schooley in third on SANDHILLS STELLA on 30.8. Taking to the course shortly thereafter, the Adelaide International CCI5* Cross Country displayed an impressive session which was equal parts exhilarating and nerve-racking with Shane Rose and THE BANDIT leading after his stunning performance on 36.3. Sophia Hill and HUMBLE GLORY follows on 41.2 and Hazel Shannon with WILLINGAPARK CLIFFORD in third on 41.9. The challenging course saw Andrew Cooper on SHARVALLEY THUNDER, David Middleton on WEC IN THE BREEZE and Joel Funnell on AIRBRUSHED eliminated while Andrew Cooper on HEY ARNOLD, Jessica Rae on FIFTH AVENUE and Shenae Lowings on BOLD VENTURE retired during their runs. The Horseland CCI4* Cross Country rounded out the third day with Shane Rose and EASY TURN finishing in first place on 36.7, Sophia Hill and TULARA BALTANGO in second on 44.7 and Edward Darby on DAWN OF THE DAY in third on 45.1. Adelaide Equestrian Festival Chair Greg Rolton praised spectators for their strong attendance on the third day of competition which saw incredible displays of first-class equestrian take over the Adelaide Park Lands. “The RB Sellars Cross Country Day is always a crowd favourite – and with elite performances like we have witnessed today – it’s not hard to understand why,” Mr Rolton said. “The atmosphere across the Adelaide Park Lands from Victoria Park right through to Rymill Park was electric. The athleticism on display across the day combined with perfect weather – I don’t think we could have asked for anything more on Day Three.” The Adelaide International CCI*5 Cross Country Results First Place: Shane Rose, THE BANDIT, (AUS) 36.3 Second Place: Sophia Hill, HUMBLE GLORY, (AUS) 41.2 Third Place: Hazel Shannon, WILLINGAPARK CLIFFORD, (AUS) 41.9 Horseland CCI*4 Cross Country Results First Place: Shane Rose, EASY TURN, (AUS) 36.7 Second Place: Sophia Hill, TULARA BALTANGO, (AUS) 44.7 Third Place: Edward Darby, DAWN OF THE DAY, (AUS) 45.1 Racing SA CCl*3 Cross Country Results  First Place: Hannah Deegan, HK HAWTHORN, (AUS) 28.8 Second Place: Oliver Barrett, SANDHILLS BRIAR, (AUS) 29.7 Third Place: Amilia Schooley, SANDHILLS STELLA, (AUS) 30.8

For Immediate Release – The second day of the Adelaide Equestrian Festival delivered yet another show-stopping display of top-tier competition with the Pryde’s Easifeed Dressage Day. Following a series of stunning performances seen on Thursday, the Horseland CCl4*-S and the Adelaide International CCl5* Dressage unfolded before spectators’ eyes on the iconic Gillian Rolton Main Arena. This years’ 4-star and 5-star Australian and New Zealand equestrian riders and their horses delivered exceptional routines for the final day of Dressage before riders prepare for the next phase – Cross Country – which is set to commence from 9:30am tomorrow (Saturday 3 May, 2025).  In a first for the Adelaide Equestrian Festival, spectators were treated to a unique, interactive and insightful two-part Masterclass series from Tristan Tucker (Netherlands) as he demonstrated the intricate ways that horse and rider can connect and learn from one another. The diverse 2025 program also saw an engaging SAPOL Police Greys demonstration added to the premier line-up of events.  “The Adelaide Equestrian Festival continues to go over and above to deliver a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a program that sees spectators visit us year after year,” Mr Rolton said.   “We cannot wait to see what the RB Sellars Cross Country Day brings. With sunny skies ahead, a great family-friendly offering and the very best equestrian action that sprawls all the way to Rymill Park – it’s not to be missed.” Horseland CCl4*-S Dressage Results First Place: Shane Rose, EASY TURN, (AUS) with 29.1 Penalties Second Place: Cathryn Herbert, WIMBORNE CONSTABLE, (AUS) with 30.5 Penalties Third Place: Hannah Klep, TULARA CHICOUVE, (AUS) with 32.9 Penalties   Adelaide International CCl5* Dressage Results First Place: Shenae Lowings, BOLD VENTURE, (AUS) with 27.4 Penalties Second Place: Hazel Shannon, WILLINGAPARK CLIFFORD, (AUS) with 30.3 Penalties Third Place: Andrew Cooper, HEY ARNOLD, (AUS) with 33.4 Penalties For more information, please contact: Sarah Stokes Parlare Public Relations M: 0412 658 390

For Immediate Release –  Day one of the Internationally recognised Adelaide Equestrian Festival has seen the ResourceCo Community Day capture the attention of thousands of spectators with the Racing SA CCI3*-L Dressage taking centre stage on the Gillian Rolton Main Arena at Victoria Park. 32 of the finest 3-star equestrian athletes from around Australia and New Zealand together with their horses competed against each other to perform and showcase the horse’s movements in a graceful presentation that requires the ultimate combination of trust and unity between horse and rider.   The Adelaide Equestrian Festival Chair Greg Rolton said the first day of the festival had seen perfect weather conditions and a fantastic start to the 4-day event.   “Being a 4-day event, successes achieved during the first phase of Dressage is all about establishing a competitive edge for the remainder of the weekend,” Mr Rolton said.   “The precision required for this discipline is quite astounding and sets the athletes up as they prepare for an energised weekend of Cross Country and Show Jumping. The progression of the event takes spectators and athletes on a complete journey across the breathtaking Adelaide Park Lands.”   “As always, our spectators and judges had front row seats to this first-class showcase of elegance and accuracy. While there is much more excitement and competition to come, we are thrilled to have started the festival on such a high note.” Thanks to the generosity of ResourceCo, the first day of the Adelaide Equestrian Festival remained free for all spectators with an abundance of premium hospitality, retail, entertainment and activities on offer for all to enjoy. “How lucky we are to be able to offer a truly universal event that caters to everyone young and old. The Adelaide Equestrian Festival is the ultimate experience – it delivers world-class eventing, pristine Park Lands and a vibrant family-friendly atmosphere that would rival any international event.”   Racing SA CCI3*-L Dressage Results First Place: Georgia Rohde, CASSIO XTREME (AUS) with 27.5 Penalties Second Place: Amilia Schooley, SANDHILLS STELLA (AUS) with 28 Penalties Third Place: Hannah Deegan, HK HAWTHORN (AUS) with 28.8 Penalties   For more information, please contact: Sarah Stokes Parlare Public Relations M: 0412 658 390

As one of Australia’s top eventing athletes, Sophia Hill is no stranger to the demands of high-level competition. As a 5* event rider, mother, and proud Horseland-sponsored rider, she’s heading into the 2025 season with big goals, a talented team of horses, and a strong support network behind her. With eyes set on the prestigious Adelaide Equestrian Festival and beyond, Sophia is ready to build on past success and chase new heights in the sport she loves. Big Goals for a Big Year With an impressive competition record already under her belt, Sophia is aiming even higher this season. “Adelaide 5* is the target event for Humble Glory this year. I am hoping to improve on our 3rd place from 2023!” she shares. While Humble Glory, her seasoned campaigner, is set for the only 5* in the Southern Hemisphere, her rising star Tulara Baltango is on his own exciting trajectory. “Tulara Baltango is competing in the 4* Short at Adelaide and then will aim for the 4* Long at Melbourne 3DE.” Meet the AEF team for 2025 “Humble Glory (Hughie) is a 13yo thoroughbred gelding. He placed 3rd at Adelaide 5* in 2023 and then 22nd at Burghley 5* in 2024. He is known for excelling in the jumping phases.” With that kind of résumé, he’s one to watch on the cross-country course. Meanwhile, Tulara Baltango – or Tango – is proving to be a horse with serious promise. “Tango is a 9yo warmblood gelding. He has recently stepped up to the 4* level after being very successful in both 2* and 3*. He is a very special horse, who excels in all three phases of eventing.” Life as a Mum and Elite Eventer Being a professional rider at the elite level is demanding enough - but Sophia also takes on the equally challenging role of being a mum. “This is definitely a challenge,” she admits. “I think the biggest part of being able to do both successfully (riding professionally and being a mother!) is having good help with both aspects – the horses and my son too.” Her secret? A team she can trust completely. “I have 8 horses in work and when I’m riding, I have someone who looks after my son so that I can be completely focused on training the horses. Then once I’m finished riding, I’m back to being a Mum, and am lucky to be able to fully trust the care of the horses with my groom Bianca. It is truly thanks to the amazing team around me, and especially my husband Andy, that it is possible for me to ride at the 5* level.” Staying Cool Under Pressure So how does Sophia manage the mental pressure of competing at the highest level? By sticking to a process that works. “I try to treat a five star like any other event. We go to competitions all the time, so competing itself is familiar and I fall into the same routine that I would at any event. This helps me manage any 5* nerves! Once at the event, I just focus on one day at a time, and one phase at a time.” Her Eventing Essentials With years of experience both at home and abroad, Sophia has discovered which tools and comforts make all the difference at an event. “When competing in the UK last year I had to go without a lot of things that I have in Australia – not everything fits in a suitcase! The two things I missed the most were my electric bike, and the horse truck.” As Sophia enters another demanding season at the top of the sport, it’s clear she has all the right pieces in place - a talented team of horses, a strong support crew, and a strong sense of determination. With the Adelaide Equestrian Festival firmly in her sights and a wealth of experience behind her, she’s ready to take on whatever 2025 throws her way, continuing to show why she’s one of Australia’s most exciting eventing talents. Written by Horseland for Adelaide Equestrian Festival

The Adelaide Equestrian Festival is thrilled to announce a new partnership with Kubota Australia, who will be providing RTV’s to support our team of Cross Country Course Builders. These high-performance vehicles will help the team navigate the stunning Adelaide Park Lands as they create the premier cross-country course in all the Southern Hemisphere. Festival Cross Country Lead, Mick Pineo  expressed his excitement, saying, “Our team is thrilled to have access to Kubota’s exceptional performance as we build the course. The Kubota RTV’s are reliable and efficient, and we’re looking forward to working with such a respected brand in the industry.” Kubota Australia representatives are also eager to develop a lasting relationship with the Adelaide Equestrian Festival  and engage with attendees throughout the event. They look forward to showcasing their world-class equipment and connecting with the equestrian community. Mark Basile, Marketing Manager at Kubota Australia, said:“We’re excited to partner with the Adelaide Equestrian Festival—an event that shares our passion for excellence, community, and the great outdoors. It’s a fantastic opportunity for us to connect with a vibrant and passionate audience, and we’re proud to be part of such a prestigious event.” About Kubota Australia For over 40 years, Kubota Australia  has been a leading supplier of agriculture, construction, and power equipment. Known for its high performance, durability, and reliability, Kubota’s extensive product range is engineered to thrive in Australia’s diverse and challenging conditions. Their equipment is distributed through a network of over 140 authorised dealers across Australia, each offering expert advice, efficient service, and access to a substantial spare parts inventory. Whether for business or personal use, Kubota ensures you have the right equipment to suit your needs, backed by a team of experts and exceptional customer service. Media Contact: Sarah Stokes Publicity Manager Parláre Public Relations 0412 658 390

Building on Success and Sustainability in 2025 Adelaide, SA – March 24, 2025  – The Adelaide Equestrian Festival is excited to announce the continuation of its partnership with ResourceCo as the official Community Partner for the second consecutive year. This collaboration underscores the Festival’s commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and providing an exceptional experience for all attendees. In 2024, ResourceCo joined the Adelaide Equestrian Festival as a key community initiative partner, ensuring that the opening day remained free to all spectators. Thanks to ResourceCo’s support, Festival-goers were able to enjoy world-class equestrian competition, explore the marketplace’s trade stalls, and experience the ATCO Kids Corral—all without an entry fee. This gesture allowed over 5,000 people to immerse themselves in the exciting atmosphere of the event. ResourceCo’s innovative approach to resource recovery and sustainability also made a lasting impact during the 2024 Festival. For the first time, recycled products from ResourceCo were trialled across the Adelaide Park Lands, ensuring that all bitumen laneways, bike tracks, and major crossings such as Wakefield Road and Bartels Road achieved excellent footing to support our competitors galloping at speed. This initiative helped create a horse-friendly environment while reducing the Festival’s environmental footprint. Over 500 tonnes of specially designed material, mixed with a top dressing of sand, were used to create sustainable surfaces, marking a significant step forward in global equestrian event sustainability. Looking ahead to 2025, the Festival is once again relying on ResourceCo’s expertise to supply products that will transform the heritage-listed Adelaide Park Lands into a world-class course. “We are thrilled to partner with ResourceCo for a second year,” said Kirsty Marston, Festival Director. “Their commitment to sustainability, community impact, and innovation plays a pivotal role in making the Adelaide Equestrian Festival a standout event in the global equestrian calendar. Their support ensures that we can offer this incredible experience to the public for free, while also making significant strides in reducing our environmental impact.”   For ResourceCo, the partnership represents more than just product supply—it’s an opportunity to connect with the community and demonstrate their commitment to positive resource recovery outcomes. “ResourceCo is proud to again support the iconic Adelaide Equestrian Festival in achieving its community access and sustainability goals,” said Brad Lemmon, CEO of ResourceCo’s Recycling & Waste operations. “By suppling recycled material for the event course, and enabling free entry to the opening day, the Adelaide Equestrian Festival is demonstrating that sustainability and a truly world-class event can go hand-in-hand.” The continued success of this partnership highlights the importance of collaboration between businesses and community-driven events. ResourceCo’s contribution helps deliver an impactful Festival experience, free for thousands of spectators to enjoy.   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 ResourceCo: ResourceCo is an industry leader in sustainable resource recovery, providing innovative products and services that contribute to a circular economy. With a focus on environmental responsibility, ResourceCo partners with businesses and communities to deliver positive resource management solutions for a more sustainable future. Media Contact: Sarah Stokes Publicity Manager Parláre Public Relations 0412 658 390

The Adelaide Equestrian Festival Announces Renewed Partnership with Iconic Heritage Brand R.M.Williams Adelaide, Australia – The Adelaide Equestrian Festival is thrilled to announce the continuation of its partnership with renowned Australian brand R.M.Williams for the 2025 event. This exciting collaboration reinforces R.M.Williams’ long-standing support of the largest equine sporting event in the Southern Hemisphere and introduces an innovative new initiative, the ‘R.M.Williams Corporate Cup’ , aimed at engaging the corporate world in the thrilling sport of equestrian competition. The ‘R.M.Williams Corporate Cup’  is a dynamic new initiative designed to foster a team-based atmosphere for our competitors and non-equine industry sponsors. This initiative offers Team Sponsors the exclusive opportunity to meet and interact with elite riders and their horses, while gaining behind-the-scenes access to meet the equine stars and enjoy the event’s premium hospitality offerings. In a groundbreaking move, every competitor entered into the 2025 Adelaide Equestrian Festival will be automatically nominated to a team, competing for the inaugural ‘R.M.Williams Corporate Cup’  title. The competition will showcase not only the skill of riders but also the spirit of camaraderie, blending the excitement of world-class equestrian sports with the opportunity for businesses to immerse themselves in the event’s prestigious atmosphere. R.M.Williams,  with a history spanning over nine decades, has become a symbol of resilience, craftsmanship, and Australian heritage. Originally created for the tough men and women of the Australian outback, the brand’s signature one-piece leather boots have become an international icon, worn by millions of people, including some of the world’s most famous figures. As the host city of the only Five Star level equestrian event in the Southern Hemisphere, Adelaide is proud to continue its association with R.M.Williams , a brand whose heart beats in the region. With manufacturing, apparel, and accessories meticulously crafted in the suburb of Salisbury, R.M.Williams’ commitment to quality and tradition is proudly anchored in the heart of South Australia. “We are incredibly excited to continue our partnership with R.M.Williams , a brand that shares our commitment to excellence and innovation,” said Kirsty Withers, Festival Director. “The ‘R.M.Williams Corporate Cup’  will create an exciting new avenue for corporate engagement with the equestrian community, and we can’t wait to see the teams compete for this inaugural title.” The 2025 Adelaide Equestrian Festival promises to be an unforgettable experience, blending world-class equestrian sport with unique opportunities for sponsors, competitors, and attendees alike. Stay tuned for more updates as we prepare for another year of exceptional competition, camaraderie, and corporate collaboration. A list of Corporate Team Sponsors already committed to the inaugural ‘R.M. Williams Corporate Cup’ is [here].   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 R.M.Williams: Since 1932, R.M.Williams has answered a call for hardwearing, timeless products that can hold up against the harsh conditions of the Australian outback - and look good whilst doing it. The brand’s bestselling leather boots and belts are still crafted by hand in Adelaide, South Australia, alongside an ever-growing range of apparel, accessories and lifestyle products. At the heart of everything R.M.Williams does is a simple promise of loyalty and endurance; a commitment that its products will accompany their wearer on all of life’s great journeys. This signature standard of quality has become the stuff of legend across the globe, with loyal followers donning their RMs in outback cattle stations and city streets alike. R.M.Williams is owned by Andrew and Nicola Forrest.  Media Contact: Sarah Stokes Publicity Manager Parláre Public Relations 0412 658 390

Matt Willey Brings Art and Awareness to the Adelaide Equestrian Festival, Supporting Pollinators and Conservation. As part of this year’s festival, we are thrilled to announce  Matt Willey  as our  ‘Artist in Residence ’. Matt will be shining a spotlight on the crucial role of pollinators through his renowned  Good of the Hive  project. Known for his thought-provoking and impactful art, Matt’s work seeks to raise awareness about the significance of pollinators in our ecosystems and their importance to the environment. Matt has been commissioned to create a unique artistic impression for a Cross Country jump for the Adelaide International 5-Star course, a showpiece during the RB Sellars Cross Country Day . In addition to his contribution to the Cross Country phase, Matt’s stunning piece will also be showcased in the Gillian Rolton Main Arena during the ATCO Show Jumping on Sunday, 4 May, providing further exposure to his impactful work. Throughout the festival, Matt will be available for a series of Q&A sessions with festival patrons. He will also be working on a one-of-a-kind piece of art in his ‘pop-up’ studio around the venue. This artwork will be available for bidding in our Silent Auction, with all funds raised directed towards a special project by Over and Above , which is focused on protecting Africa's endangered species and the communities that rely on them. Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to witness Matt’s creative process, learn about his environmental advocacy, and contribute to a meaningful cause while enjoying the world-class equestrian action. Entry to the festival will be free on Thursday, and festival attendees will have the exclusive opportunity to engage with Matt during a Q&A session, where he will discuss his  Good of the Hive  project and the inspiration behind his work. Join us at the 2025 Adelaide Equestrian Festival for this unique artistic experience! Media Contact: Sarah Stokes Publicity Manager Parláre Public Relations 0412 658 390

The Adelaide Equestrian Festival is delighted to welcome Thatchers Cider as the newest member of our 'stable' of Sponsors! As the Naming Rights holder of the SOLD OUT  Lakeside Tavern at Rymill Park, Thatchers will provide guests with an unrivalled view of the Water Jump during the highly anticipated RB Sellars Cross Country Day. Now rebranded as the Thatchers Lakeside Tavern , this newly created spectator space is set to bring the Bates Saddles Rymill Lake to life. Guests can pre-purchase gourmet picnic hampers and South Australian produce platters, delivered directly to the venue. A limited release of reserved picnic tables also SOLD OUT  within weeks of tickets being made available, highlighting the high demand for this premium experience during our landmark phase – Cross Country. Thatchers Cider has been lovingly crafted on Myrtle Farm in Somerset, UK, since 1904, with four generations dedicated to the craft and a fifth eagerly waiting to take the reins. While much has evolved over the years, one thing remains constant: their unwavering passion for cider making, which continues to be their pride and joy. “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Thatchers Cider to the Adelaide Equestrian Festival family. Their deep-rooted heritage and dedication to quality perfectly align with the spirit of our event, and we’re excited to offer our guests an exceptional experience, enhanced by such an iconic brand,”  said Kirsty Withers , Festival Director. “As a family-run business with over 100 years of heritage, we’re excited to be part of such a prestigious event in the heart of Adelaide. Partnering with the Adelaide Equestrian Festival provides us with an incredible opportunity to share our cider with a wider audience while celebrating an event that champions tradition, skill, and passion. We look forward to seeing everyone enjoy a refreshing cider at the Thatchers Lakeside Tavern ,”  said Alison Barry , Thatchers Brand Manager - Australia. We can't wait to share the excitement and exceptional taste of Thatchers with all our attendees!   Media Contact: Sarah Stokes Publicity Manager Parláre Public Relations 0412 658 390

Randlab partners with Adelaide Equestrian Festival as ‘Official Veterinary Partner’ for Three-Year Term Leading to Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. Image Credit: Michelle Terlato Adelaide, Australia – The Adelaide Equestrian Festival  is excited to announce a renewed partnership with Randlab, who will serve as the ‘Official Veterinary Partner’  for the upcoming three years. This partnership is a significant milestone as we build momentum toward the LA 2028 Olympic Games, ensuring world-class veterinary care and support for all competitors at the Festival. Randlab  has been a key player in supporting the Adelaide Equestrian Festival’s Veterinary Services for many years, and their continued commitment to the Festival ensures that the welfare of our equine companions is always top of mind.  This partnership brings a renewed focus on providing unparalleled veterinary expertise to Festival competitors, ensuring that every horse receives the highest standard of veterinary care. Established in 2004,  Randlab  is known for providing premium, innovative, and cost-effective veterinary medicines and supplements for the equine industry. Their products are trusted by equine veterinarians and horse owners worldwide, offering safe and effective formulations designed to support the health and well-being of horses. With a strong global presence, Randlab  operates across Australia, Europe, Asia, Middle East/Gulf, and New Zealand. “We are incredibly proud to continue our partnership with the Adelaide Equestrian Festival as the ‘Official Veterinary Partner’,” said Dr Michael Robinson of Randlab . “Our commitment to providing top-quality veterinary products and services aligns perfectly with the Festival’s dedication to ensuring the welfare of the horses and riders. We look forward to supporting the Festival in this exciting new chapter as we lead up to the 2028 Olympics.” “The welfare of our horses is paramount, and having Randlab’s  premium products on hand will further enhance the experience for our competitors and their teams,” said the Festival’s Veterinary Services Manager, Dr Holly Lewis. “This partnership not only highlights our commitment to the highest standards of veterinary care but also ensures that the Festival remains a premier event for equestrian sport.” About Randlab : Randlab, established in 2004, provides innovative veterinary medicines and supplements for the equine industry. With a focus on quality, service, value, and care, Randlab offers a range of safe, effective, and high-quality products trusted by veterinarians and horse owners worldwide. With a presence in multiple countries, Randlab remains a passionate supporter of the equine community.   Media Contact:Sarah Stokes Publicity Manager Parláre Public Relations 0412 658 390

The Only Triple Crown Winners in Adelaide History The Adelaide Equestrian Festival stands as one of the most prestigious events on the international eventing calendar, where history was made by an extraordinary partnership. Hazel Shannon and WillingaPark Clifford became the only combination to win the Adelaide 5-Star event three times—in 2016, 2018, and 2019—writing their names into the record books and capturing the hearts of the eventing community. From Humble Beginnings to Eventing Stardom It all began when Hazel Shannon, then a working pupil for Heath Ryan, met a laid-back chestnut gelding that wasn't cut out for racing. Clifford, bred by Sue Devereux in Tasmania, found his way to Wendy Ward and Allen Jennings' property, where Hazel started working with him. Little did anyone know this "non-descript" 16hh thoroughbred would become a legend in the sport. The Ryan Legacy: A Foundation of Excellence Hazel's mentorship under Heath and Rozzie Ryan proved instrumental in her journey. These pillars of Australian equestrian sport have been dedicated Bates Saddles riders throughout their illustrious careers, introducing countless top riders to the brand and ensuring comfortable partnerships at the highest level. Heath Ryan's own achievements speak volumes: three Australian Three-Day Event Championships, four Australian Grand Prix Dressage Championships, and the remarkable black stallion Regardez Moi, who dominated with over 40 Grand Prix victories. As a coach, Heath guided the Australian eventing team to Olympic gold in both Atlanta 1996 and Sydney 2000. Rozzie Ryan made history herself in 1990, representing Australia at the inaugural World Equestrian Games in Stockholm as part of the country's first international dressage team. Together since 1980, Heath and Rozzie have created a training hub that attracts riders from around the globe.   A Partnership Saved by Fate After their first Adelaide victory in 2016, Hazel faced losing Clifford due to unfortunate circumstances. Enter Terry and Ginette Snow, whose intervention not only saved the partnership but elevated it to new heights. Renamed WillingaPark Clifford, the pair went on to international success, competing in seven CCI5*-L events, including Kentucky Three-Day Event and Pau CCI5*. Their journey reached new heights in 2022 with their appearance at the World Championship in Pratoni del Vivaro, Italy. The Heart of a Champion  What makes Clifford special isn't just his achievements—it's his heart. While he might not have started as the most natural athlete, his determination and reliability have proven invaluable. In dressage, he delivers consistency. On cross-country, his thoroughbred heritage shines through with incredible galloping ability and bravery. In showjumping, his careful nature and honest effort prevail. The Bates Saddles Connection Throughout their journey, Bates Saddles has been a constant partner. As Hazel explains, "Bates Saddles have partnered me galloping around 5* cross-country courses and to Grand Prix dressage tests. They really suit me, but more importantly, they suit my horses." Hazel favours a wide range of Bates saddles and finds different combinations work for different horses, appreciating their adjustability for both horse and rider. Clifford has long been ridden in the Bates Artiste monoflap dressage saddle and Bates Advanta monoflap jump saddle, while the upcoming Chelsea prefers the Bates Isabell Icon dressage saddle and the Bates Victrix jump saddle. A Legacy of Champions at Adelaide The connection between Bates Saddles and Adelaide Equestrian Festival success runs deep. Recent victories by riders spotted in the brand such as David Middleton with WEC In The Money (2024) and Shane Rose aboard Virgil (2023) continue this tradition. After a three-year COVID-19 hiatus, the event's return has showcased more exceptional Bates Saddles partnerships. The winners' list in Bates saddles reads like a who's who of Australian eventing: Shane Rose's multiple victories (2023, 2015, 2004) Stuart Tinney's back-to-back wins (2011, 2009) Craig Barrett's triumph (2012) Heath Ryan's victory with Flame (2006) As the Official Saddle Partner of the Adelaide Equestrian Festival, Bates Saddles' commitment to the sport is evident in their sponsorship of the iconic Bates Saddles Rymill Lake, a key feature of the cross-country course. Inspiring Future Generations  Hazel and Clifford's story represents more than just victories—it's a testament to the power of partnership, perseverance, and proper support. Their legacy continues to inspire the next generation of riders, proving that with heart, dedication, and the right equipment, dreams can become reality in the demanding world of eventing. Their journey, supported by the expertise of the Ryans and the quality of Bates Saddles, shows how the right combination of talent, training, and equipment can create eventing history.   Images courtesy of Bates saddles, by Libby Law Photography and The J’Taime.

Press Release - 19 February 2025 Adelaide, Australia  – The 2025 Adelaide Equestrian Festival  is proud to announce its collaboration with Tristan Tucker , a globally respected horse trainer, to enhance its educational offerings. With a focus on horse welfare and education, this partnership aims to provide a unique learning experience for equine enthusiasts and riders of all disciplines.   Tristan Tucker, an accomplished Grand Prix competitor  and the creator of the TRT Method , is recognized worldwide for his expertise in building harmony between horses and riders.   Highly sought after for his clinics, Tristan has helped hundreds of thousands of horse owners globally improve their relationship with their horses, making him one of the most respected names in the equine world.   As part of his involvement with the 2025 Festival, Tristan will lead two Masterclasses open to all spectators on Friday, May 2,  in the Gillian Rolton Main Arena . Providing a rare opportunity for horse owners and riders to learn directly from one of the best in the business, whilst offering two riders the chance to participate in these exclusive Masterclasses . Riders from all disciplines across the country are invited to nominate with applications open to participants beyond the Olympic disciplines, ensuring a diverse group of attendees.   Following the Cross Country phase, the Festival will host an ‘In Conversation With’ series on Saturday evening. Tristan will offer guests an intimate look at his training principles in a relaxed and engaging setting. The evening will feature an in-depth Q&A session , providing attendees with the opportunity to discuss the challenges and opportunities in the world of horse sports. With limited seating available, tickets for this event will be in high demand! For more information about the ‘In Conversation With’  series and to secure your tickets, go [here].   Tristan’s involvement underscores the Festival’s commitment to celebrating horses beyond eventing and offering an inclusive educational program that benefits all equine enthusiasts. The festival is also partnering with the South Australian Mounted Police Division , where Tristan will host an exclusive demonstration  for officers at the newly opened Gepps Cross facility during his visit to Adelaide.   Tristan Tucker  commented: “I’m really looking forward to seeing how my TRT Methods can motivate and help spectators attending the Adelaide Equestrian Festival. This is an iconic event, and I’m excited to be invited to contribute to the educational program and support riders in their journey to better understand their horses."   Tickets  and further information about the Festival are available at [ here ] . To nominate for the Tristan Tucker 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. Media Contact: Sarah Stokes Publicity Manager Parláre Public Relations 0412 658 390   Kirsty Withers Festival Director Adelaide Equestrian Festival 0408 804 806