Held at Araluen near Sutton Forest under beautiful blue skies, the day had a great atmosphere and spirit with over 100 riders from 31 schools.

The horsemen and horsewomen came from Highlands’ schools Oxley and Chevalier as well as the broader NSW community, Geelong Grammar and even Western Australia.

The Oxley College team was particularly strong, fielding 24 students across the various events.

The drawcard of the Oxley Equestrian day was the unique format that features something for everyone.

There was hacking, dressage, showjumping, a derby (combined show jumping and cross-country) and sporting events, giving a diversity that few other hosting schools could offer.

The range allowed students who would not normally participate in this type of event an opportunity to get together with other horse lovers.

Oxley College student, Winston Bradley was the highest-scoring boy for the second year running.

The highest-scoring girl for 2009 was Ali Malcolm from Chevalier College.

Oxley riders featured exceptionally in the results and again came away with the highest-scoring school.

Jacqueline Basquil won the top scoring rider for Oxley College.

Year champions were represented from Chevalier and Oxley Colleges, Pymble Ladies College, Frensham, Canberra Girls Grammar and Campbell High School.

Event organisers said the day was a great success due to the number of dedicated parents and friends from the Oxley College community who offered welcoming country hospitality and a well organised day.

Oxley College would also like to thank the day’s hosts, property owners Dr and Mrs Roche, grandparents of two of the Oxley College riders, for offering magnificent facilities for riding enthusiasts.

Two Year-8 Oxley College students, Jacqueline Basquil and Philippa Lawson, headed to Victoria last week to compete at a national level.