Paris 2024 Olympic Games Wrap

Just over three years ago sports enthusiasts from all corners of the globe were excited to learn that Paris had won the right to host the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Early reports promised a very special event with innovative design considerations to showcase the natural beauty and spectacular architecture that make this city the number one tourist destination in the world.

In the months leading up to Paris, equestrian fans enjoyed progressive updates on the picturesque setting, design and construction work for the main Olympic arena that take in the stunning sweeping view towards the iconic Chateau de Versailles. The Chateau precinct was selected for the construction of grandstands to accommodate 16,300 daily spectators.  

The Olympic equestrian events were held from 27 July to 11 August.

The spectacular Paris cross-country course was created by French designer Pierre Le Goupil and no one denied that the Frenchman’s artistry was outstanding, but safety considerations were also state-of-the-art and uncompromised.

Leading up to the Games, Equestrian Australia’s (EA) Chair, Christie Freeman said, “The sport is delighted to have had so many strong combinations representing us in Paris and I would also like to thank the many owners, grooms, horse breeders, trainers, coaches, judges, officials, event organisers and supporters who have all played an important role in the journey of Australia’s Olympians.” 

In a more recent message to members Christie Freeman said, “We were transfixed watching our riders as their years of hard work, planning and dedication transitioned into a moment in time on the world stage. What wonderful memories they created for us and we hope that they in turn will have incredible memories from their time in Versailles.”

As an Eventing nation, Australia has a well-earned reputation for competing as medal contenders, so hopes were high as our team stepped on to the Dressage arena for the first of the three-day competition. Chris Burton and Shadow Man, Shane Rose and Virgil and Kevin McNab and Don Quidam were the selector’s choice and we all marvelled at Shane Rose’s grit and determination, making it to Paris after sustaining serious injuries just a few months earlier. All combinations delivering excellent performances with Chris Burton and Shadow Man heading into the Cross Country phase in equal third spot.

Day 2 delivered a blow with Kevin McNab electing to retire Don Quidam during the Cross Country phase in the horse’s best interest. Chris Burton and Shadow Man put in a near perfect round that put them into third position but close enough for gold medal contention. On the final day of jumping McNab’s withdrawal saw reserve combination Shenae Lowings and Bold Venture take part on the final day, riding very well at her Olympic debut. An individual gold medal for Australia relied on the legendary German, Michael Jung making a mistake or two. While that was unlikely, “Burto” did us proud and moved up to take silver – a fantastic result effort for a combination that has only been together for six months. As a team, Australia finished in 15th spot and Shane Rose and Virgil in 20th

We were so proud of the achievements of our Paris 2024 Dressage team of Jayden Brown and Quincy B, William Matthew and Mysterious Star, and Simone Pearce and Destano. All three combinations produced strong scores in the Grand Prix Qualifier, qualifying them for the Team Final - the Grand Prix Special where they finished in 10th place overall. Individually Jayden Brown and Quincy B were 39th, William Matthew and Mysterious Star 35th and Simone Pearce and Destano 32nd. 

The last discipline to go was Jumping and our very experienced Edwina Tops-Alexander with Fellow Castlefield anchored the Australian team with Hilary Scott and Oaks Milky Way and Thaisa Erwin and Hialita B working well in an all-girl Aussie Olympic challenge. It was a technical and demanding track that saw some combinations over-faced, however our team put in a solid performance. However, with only the top 30 combinations going through to the final, our results saw Hilary Scott and Oaks Milky Way finish 44th, Edwina Tops-Alexander and Fellow Castlefield come in at 47th and Thaisa Erwin and Hialita B finish 51st.

For horse lovers and followers of equestrian sport, the Paris Olympic Games and Paralympics marked a new commitment to horse welfare and sharing the love we have for our equine partners. 

Full Results HERE.