Everyone involved seemed to unite for the 3 days of competition.

The committee making the decision that the event must go on was a huge undertaking for competitors and organisers alike, with the blessing of Caitlyn Fischers’ family everyone involved seemed to unite for the 3 days of competition. The 4 classes that competed being CIC and CCI 2 and 3 star had approximately 10 competitors in each class and with Shane Rose, Shenae Lowings riding 4 horses and Stuart Tinney riding 3 the event had more volunteers than riders.

The cross country track had a couple of minor changes which unfortunately saw Seumas Marwood miss the second last fence in the CCI 3 star which really rots ya cotton socks as Seumas and the mare Wild Oats traveled back from the outskirts of Melbourne for the second time and had posted a very handy 49 in the dressage on Friday. A little whisper that Shane’s navigation around the track on his first ride for the day did also do a bit of “which way did he go?” but only adding a handful of extra time penalties was the only price paid.

Sunday mornings horse inspection seemed a very light-hearted affair with both classes presenting in no particular order as the ground jury was the same for all the classes. Sadly Jess Manson made the tough decision to withdraw Legal Star at this time. Jess has since decided to retire Trumby, tributes from many of Jess’s friends on social media were made and many wished Trumby all the best and Jess good luck in catching Trumby once he got wind of the news.

The CIC 3 star Shane again having a quinella but the big jumping Virgil this time victorious over C.P Qualified by 10.1 penalties, a rail down a 2 time penalties for Darcy gave Virgil even a bigger margin for the win. Judy Clarke with Diablito was in super form all weekend, just quietly if Judy and Bobby had an inclination to give Rio a shot they’re not to far off the mark! Pluto Mio also showing he has matured with age and being very consistent placing in 4th for Stuart and the lovely Carlchen stepping up comfortably to place 5th.

In the CCI 3 star Sonja Johnston rode her 2 chestnuts, Parkiarrup Illicit Liaison and the young fella Misty Isle Valentino and made the long journey across the Nullabor very worth while. Taking the win on the experienced Illicit Liaisons and the Wanglo placing 3rd.

At the presentation volunteers, the organising committee and riders united for a minute’s silence as a tribute to the tragic loss of a fellow competitor Caitlyn Fischer. A truly great tribute to a lovely young rider.

Shenae Lowings was presented with the Rod Winchester award, this prize goes to a young rider that our Roddy chooses as the best and fairest young rider at the Sydney International 3DE. Shenae, all the way from W.A. competed 4 horses and certainly got the Sit Tight tick of approval as well!

Another worthy mention goes to Rachel Watts winning the grooms award, Shane’s 4 horses looked spectacular as always but more importantly were in the right place at the right time every time! TOP JOB RACHEL!!

The days getting shorter and some what chillier is a reminder Sit Tight is heading south on the long weekend in June for the Melbourne International 3DE, so drag out the winter woolies and ya wellies and prick your ears for the broadcast!