Jones retires legendary Jester

Jones first won on Jester in 2005 at the Melbourne International 3 Day Event– an event the duo won again in 2008. Jester also helped Jones to win a team bronze at the 2006 World Equestrian Games in Aachen and finished the 2008 season as the world’s best eventing horse, ranked number one by the international equestrian organisation, FEI.

His withdrawal from the event has been an emotional decision for Jones who will give children the opportunity to meet Jesterup close in Adelaide this Saturday 24 November at the AI3DE Cross Country Day. Kirby Park Irish Jester will officially retire in the main arena of the event this Sunday, once show jumping has been completed.

“Jester has a passion for competition like no other horse I have ever ridden and the partnership I have with him and still have, is one that I will cherish forever,” Jones says,

“Our family bred Jester in 1993 and because I have trained and ridden Jester from the very start it makes for a partnership like no other. I will miss every aspect of competing him at top level as I trust him with everything I have.

“He will enjoy light work and plenty of beach rides as this is his most favourite place in the world besides galloping on a cross country course and jumping fences.

“Every horse I ride will be measured against Jester - they all have a lot to live up to.”

The AI3DE kicks off on Thursday with free entry to the Horseland CCI** dressage event scheduled to start at 10.30am with the main four-star competition kicking off with dressage on Friday.

Big name riders competing at the 3-Day Event - running until Sunday in Adelaide’s parklands and Victoria Park - include Sydney Olympic gold medallist Stuart Tinney, Beijing Olympic silver medallist Shane Rose and Atlanta Olympic gold medallist Wendy Schaeffer, who will compete in the two-star event.

The AI3DE is Australia’s premier equestrian event and one of only six Concours Complet International (CCI) four-star events in the world that make up the HSBC FEI Classics Series and the only one in the Southern hemisphere.

There is free access to the public on Friday after 5.30pm with Twilight Show Jumping and live entertainment from Brewster Brothers - original members of the Angels, a champagne bar and much more. On Saturday, the family Qantas Cross country day is free for children aged under 16 years accompanied by an adult.

Also over the three days, television sensation Double Dan Horsemanship will entertain the crowd with their exciting liberty horse show and Ponies in the Park will provide an educational and exciting experience for children on Saturday.