Kerra Ingle and Hamish relax after a major confidence win. DDD Springbush Equestrian. Copyright photography KMCK Media. 15.11.25

A series of masterclasses for grassroots riders of all ages and backgrounds has successfully delivered introductions to a range of disciplines for 121 non-competitive riders across the country. 

Demo & Dabble has operated a weekend model involving all disciplines in the North Island in 2024 and South Island early this year.  However, feedback that came through clearly – especially from a group of “galloping housewives” – was that they found that committing to a full weekend away with travel, horses, families, and work to juggle so it just wasn’t realistic. 

Therefore, in September the concept morphed into a series of three discipline-specific clinics, with a dressage day held at Clevedon A&P Showgrounds, a jumping day at Abderry Equine Centre and an eventing day at Springbush Equestrian in South Auckland.

Demo, Dabble and Do-it has been a breakaway from the traditional competitions typically held by ESNZ.   It was an opportunity to meet like-minded women, men and youngsters from a large pool of riders across the equestrian sector for whom competitive riding was ‘a bridge too far’.  Sponsored prizes were awarded to recognise displays of good horsemanship and good sportsmanship.  

For many, it was their first chance to enter professionally organised arenas and courses guided by advanced ESNZ riders as ambassadors within each discipline.

Each clinic was delivered in three parts:  beginning with an informal group chat hosted by the ambassadors who discussed each discipline and spoke of some ‘candid’ moments in their own riding careers; demonstration riders showing how it is done; then the riders mounting up and receiving 1:1 coaching before completing a test or course themselves under the guidance of the ambassadors.

Ambassador Steph-Kate Vervoort gives Isabel Pearson and Salix some 1:1 attention. Copyright photography KMCK Media. 15.11.25

The participants found that the model was simple and informative.  They enjoyed interacting with like-minded equestrians, and receiving helpful and knowledgeable support, in a professional environment without the pressures of competition.

One participant commented,  “With a new horse it was important for us to come out to an event and just see what she would be like. She hadn’t managed to jump a “round'” prior to the day so having the support and facilities to do this, with little pressure, was awesome.”

Demo & Dabble is an initiative created after Sport NZ called for sports organisations to Strengthen and Adapt, in response to a downturn in physical activity levels since the COVID-19 lockdowns.

ESNZ general manager community Jo Colin led a 1600-person survey to identify ways to strengthen the sport’s capability and capacity post-pandemic, and create a better future for those who take part.

“It was imperative that the whole project was a collaborative co-design model, providing the opportunity to hear the voices of our community and truly listen to their ideas,” says Jo.

Interactive workshops were held with 336 participants across 21 locations from Northland to Gore, and three main themes emerged.  These included:  One Equestrian Voice – advocating for and supporting existing structures;  Supporting Riders to Ride – the review of a membership model  and the delivery of an event that encouraged and enhanced opportunities for recreational riding events and activities at lower heights with a less competitive, more fun, focus; and Strengthening the System – promoting positive attitudes and an inclusive culture while also recognising volunteers who offer a large contribution towards making the sport possible.

ESNZ national development manager Ashra McAvinue set up a network of working parties from 500 horse enthusiasts of all types, including a multi-discipline group who together co-designed one the solution that became Demo, Dabble and Do-it.

Ashra MccAvinue and husband Simon enjoy Demo, Dabble & Do-it at Springbush Equestrian. Copyright photography KMCK Media. 15.11.25

Asrha says the working group put together a great concept that has given the grassroots riders the chance to explore their sport in a way that previously had not been possible.

“There are no expectations, and they come along and enjoy themselves at a great facility with all the bells and whistles,” she says.

The Strengthen and Adapt programme is designed to help organisations effectively meet the needs of participants, according to Sport NZ Partnership Manager Karin Adelinger-Smith.

“Equestrian Sport New Zealand has done a great job of responding to participants’ requests for a varied and less competitive offering with the implementation of Demo and Dabble.”

Equestrian sports was one of several sports codes targeted, including high profile mainstream sports such as Netball, Cricket, Rugby, Athletics, Tennis and Rowing to name a few.  

See also https://www.nzequestrian.org.nz/esnz/programmes/strengthen-adapt/

More photos see:  https://kmckmedia.pixieset.com/