The Mid South East Dressage Club, based in the South East of SA, again hosted the SA Country Championships over the Anzac weekend. The event is always well supported by competitors from throughout SA, as well as Victoria, with some riders coming from as far as Mildura.

The Naracoorte Showgrounds were in pristine condition for the event, with the combination of rain and sunshine in the lead up meaning the surface was perfect. The hardworking committee setting up arenas on the Thursday meant that campers arrived to a picturesque competition scene. The refurbished stables meant that the horses and campers alike could settle in, in comfort.

The preliminary classes were full to capacity this year, both on Saturday and Sunday. Judges for these classes were Judy Quinn and Cathy McAdie (1C) and Maria Millikan (1D).  On Saturday, local rider Amanda Lock and her lovely Welt’s Emporer mare, Absolut Harmony, were victorious, over Tracey Clayton and the impressive Donnerblitz horse, Danson Dynamic. In the 1D Tracey and Danson Dynamic took out the honours, with Ria Grivell and Barabadeen Cruiser in 2^nd place. The Patchawarra Free Range Beef Preliminary Championship was taken out by Tracey Clayton and Danson Dynamic (winning the Bonnetts donated rug), with Amanda Lock and Absolut Harmony Reserve Champion.

The Naboo Dressage pony Stud Pony Preliminary was hotly contested, with Zena Allieu and the stunning Naboo Destiny taking out the 1C on the Saturday. The Sunday saw Zena again in front, from Asha Kelly and the lovely Tilley Park Charleston.

The Hopkins Saddlery Young rider / Junior preliminary class was judged by Bev Copping on Saturday (1C) and Ken Croser on Sunday(1D), and showed some amazing up and coming talent.  Angela Donaldson and another Donnerblitz horse, Danson Destiny, took out both Prelim classes, on Saturday with an amazing 81.818%. One to really watch! 2^nd in both classes was Caitlin Brown and the lovely mare Birribi Minuet.

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