23-25 March 2023 / TAUPO NEC
The Bates Championships are back in 2023 – Bates Saddles & Dressage NZ since 1998 – what a partnership
2023 will be the 25th consecutive year that Bates Saddles have committed to the naming rights sponsorship of the Dressage NZ National Championships – a wonderfully collaborative partnership between Bates Saddles and Dressage NZ that continues to work together to bring together the best Dressage and Para dressage combinations from across New Zealand together, in conjunction with a long list of many other valued supporters.
2023 will incorporate the Fiber Fresh Para Equestrian Dressage Championships, all wrapped up in one supersize dressage extravaganza at the Taupo NEC from Wednesday 22nd (horse inspection only) to Saturday 25th March culminating in the spectacular Grand Prix Freestyle
The Bates Open Championships from Preliminary to Grand Prix are accompanied by the coveted ESNZ national trophies. The list of winners makes fascinating reading at https://www.nzequestrian.org.nz/disciplines/dressage/performance/dressage-titles-and-trophies/national-championships/
Age group classes are all important for horses and riders with both FEI Pony & Young Rider classes , and four to seven year old Young Horse Championships all attracting serious quality fields. More recently introduced are the Bronze and Silver and ProAM Championships (previously known as Amateur) for the combinations who love to support and participate at the event and be inspired by their heroes. There really is something for everyone.
The event is excited to host a Paris 2024 Olympics Qualifier and are proud to have collaborated with ESNZ High Performance to bring experienced GBR 5* judge Isobel Wessels, who will judge alongside Ricky MacMillan & Kerrie Swan-Bates (AUS) supported by NZL listed FEI judges
Isabel Wessels and Penny Pearce, during the FEI World Team Championship Grand Prix Dressage. 2018 FEI World Equestrian Games Tryon. Wednesday 12 September. Copyright Photo: Libby Law Photography
We welcome volunteers and offer a great event experience. You don’t necessarily need to have experience with horses to volunteer, but there are a wide range of opportunities for you to interact and work with an enthusiastic group and put “volunteering” on your CV
Message from Event Director Cassie Freeman [email protected]
I am thrilled and excited to again be part of the Bates National Dressage Championships – March 2023. Organising is well advanced and at this early stage I am delighted to welcome key back members of last year’s wonderful team, including Margs Carline (Technical Delegate), Cathy Vennell (administration Manager), Jos Gresham (Stable Manager) and new team member Ken Wilson (Entries Manager) from Canterbury
The event will feature the NI and National Finals of the ever popular Super 5 League Series