The championships, traditionally held in October, were postponed this year due to heavy rain. Heavy rain preceded last Saturday as well, but it was followed by howling winds that continued well into Sunday’s event.

With nine championship rugs to be won, there was an incentive to just “get on with it” from the riders, and while the quality of dressage may have suffered from the appalling conditions, the spirit of Bowral Dressage Club did not.

Riders aged between eight and 73 rode 121 tests, from basic preliminary level up to the ultimate Grand Prix.

The Bowral Dressage Club has been working tirelessly for several years to establish sand and grass arenas of sufficient quality to attract the highest-level competition possible, both to the club and to the Southern Highlands. Good arenas are as essential to dressage horses as a good stage is for dancers.

For the full story see the Southern Highland News, Friday, December 19