Johanna Wylaars (NZ) rides Tiramea Logan  Photo: KAMPIC / Kerry Marshall

Jack Barker (AUST) rides Colemans Daughter   Photo: KAMPIC / Kerry Marshall

 

The Australians come-back on day two of the Trans-Tasman Young Rider Teams’ Challenge at the Larsen Sawmilling Equestrian Championships in Gisborne has set up a cracker of a final tomorrow.

There is just a single point between the two teams, with the Kiwis on nine – thanks to their bonus point yesterday – and the visitors on eight. That bonus point could be the difference by the end of tomorrow and both chefs d’equipe are very much aware of the importance of it.

Aussie chef Phil Stephens was chuffed for the win today. “Now we just need a win and a bonus point tomorrow . . . it’s going to be a tough day. That bonus point may be hard to get,” he said. “They got the job done out there today, so that was good.”

The team were “absolutely loving” the exchange. “The hospitality here is second to none.”

New Zealand chef Oliver Edgecombe is looking forward to a better day tomorrow. “You could see today some horses go better with different riders,” he said.

Johanna Wylaars aboard Tiramea Logan, the only rider from the two teams to notch a clear round, had been a real stand out for him in the New Zealand team. She finished the two rounds on a total of four faults, while Jack Barker aboard Colemans Daughter was the best of the Aussies on 12. After today’s round the chefs headed behind closed doors to do the pick-for-pick from the pool of horses for the all-important final tomorrow. “We will be looking for horses that suit each rider the best,” says Oliver.

 

Results –

Australia: Cody Tincknall, Central Zone (owned by Oliver Edgecombe) 8, 8; Hayden Parker, Centare Max (owned by Vinia Mason) 16, E; Elissa Stephens, Centanna (owned by Pip Wylaars) 12, 4; Jack Barker, Colemans Daughter (owned by Rhinnon Smith) 8, 4; 44 faults, 5 points 1.

 

New Zealand: Emma Gillies (Oamaru) Centra (owned by Sofia Gaddum) 8, 4; Johanna Wylaars (Christchurch) Tiramea Logan (owned by Jeff Chapman) 4, 0; Dylan Bibby (Onga Onga) Pure Suggestion (owned by Laura McGregor) 24, 8; Liam Rutland (Te Awamutu) SP Magic Symbol (owned by Andrew Ormond) E, 12; 48 faults, 3 points 2.

 

Total points (two days): New Zealand 9; Australia 8.

 

Diana Dobson

27 January 2024