Top Showjumpers Compete in Dannevirke World Cup Qualifier

Top equestrian talent will converge in Dannevirke this weekend for the Central and Southern Hawke’s Bay Jumping Show, featuring a critical round in the FEI World Cup (NZ League) qualifier. The event takes place from March 15 to 16, 2024, at the Dannevirke A&P Showgrounds, with approximately 400 horses participating across various classes ranging from 90 cm to 1.6 m in height.

Competitors are traveling from as far north as Auckland to the South Island, showcasing the national reach of the event. Notably, the competition serves as the fourth round in the series, leading up to the final round near Cambridge next weekend. Event chairman Robert Steele expressed enthusiasm for the gathering of riders, stating that showjumping allows individuals of all ages and genders to compete on equal footing.

Exciting Competitions and Key Competitors

Steele highlighted the strong local presence in Dannevirke, noting that the region has a wealth of talented competitors who regularly participate on the national stage. “Central and Southern Hawke’s Bay have a very strong area of competitors that compete throughout the country,” he remarked. He also emphasized the accessibility of the venue for spectators, mentioning that the grandstand is expected to be full on Saturday.

The main event, the World Cup qualifier, will feature Julie Davey of Hastings, who currently leads the standings with 55 points. Close behind her are Sophie Scott from Palmerston North with 50 points and Makenzie Causer of Christchurch with 47 points. The series winner will earn a spot at the world final in Fort Worth, Texas, scheduled for April.

Steele acknowledged the competition’s entry numbers, stating, “We’ve got seven entries this weekend, which is probably on the light side, but they have been all season.” The competition between Davey and Scott is particularly intense, as both riders aim to secure vital points ahead of the final round at Takapoto next weekend.

Supporting Young Talent and Community Engagement

The event will also feature other prestigious competitions, including the 1 Star event, which follows the World Cup qualifier at 13:00. This segment will showcase 16 entries of promising horses and riders, including local talents such as Logan Massie, Maurice Beatson, and Steele himself.

In addition, the show will host the Answer Back Cup, aimed at encouraging young riders under the age of ten by providing mentoring opportunities. To support the event’s expenses, including prize money and the hiring of international judges, an auction will be held.

With strong participation and a commitment to fostering talent at all levels, the Central and Southern Hawke’s Bay Jumping Show promises to be an exciting weekend for equestrian enthusiasts and newcomers alike. The event will also be live-streamed via ClipMyHorse, allowing a broader audience to engage with the competitions.