Australian Gold Team Jump Into the Lead on Cross-Country Day at Oceania Championships

Cross-country day at the Oceania Championships in Taupo, New Zealand saw a shake up in the standings for both Australian and New Zealand riders.

The cross-country course proved challenging as it undulated over 6,234m at the New Zealand National Equestrian Centre.

The Australian Gold Team is leading the charge in the team competition on a score of 186.5 with all three nominated team members completing the course in fine form.

The Australian Green Team is currently on a score of 510.6 with a fabulous clear jumping round from Jade Findlay riding Oaks Cordelia who were the only team members to complete the course without issue.

Unlucky rider falls for Amanda Ross and Emma Mason at the water complex saw the team slip down the leaderboard to fourth from their previous second place. However, under the new Olympic format in which the Championship is being run, these combinations are both still eligible continue the competition.

Australian Green Team reserve rider Madeline Wilson delivered an outstanding performance riding I'm Bruce and is currently the highest placed Australian rider sitting in third place with a score of 37.8

The Young Rider Team has overtaken the Kiwis with all riders home safe after cross-country with a score of 233 after phase two.

“I’m very happy with the whole group today. They have gone out and done the best they can under new pressures. They have handled themselves with a maturity beyond their years and are already planning improvements for the future. Great job girls” praised Young Rider Team Chef d'Equipe Will Enzinger.

Showjumping will take place tomorrow where the winner of the Oceania Championships will be decided.

Full results can be found at https://equestrianentries.co.nz