Camden will get a taste of the Olympics, with the equestrian event of the year, Camden 2021 Equestriad, set for Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 May.

The event, to be held at Camden Bicentennial Equestrian Park, will showcase potential Olympics riders and horses competing in dressage, cross country and show jumping. 

Shane Rose Eventing President, Shane Rose, said the event is free to watch and promising a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.

“Eventing is the ultimate test of horse and rider combinations,” Mr Rose said.

“Each rider has to pilot the horse across three different phases of competition – dressage, cross country and show jumping. The audience will get to watch as the horses have to transform from beautiful, controlled movements in the dressage, to galloping quickly jumping over big fixed obstacles in the cross country, to back to being very careful in the show jumping, clearing obstacles which can be knocked over very easily.

“All this is done against a clock, with competitors of all ages and genders competing against one another. Eventing is one of the only sports in the world where men and women compete equally, and young riders and amateurs can compete against Olympians!

“My pick for the day is definitely the cross country! It’s the most exhilarating part of eventing for me. Watch horses jump over fixed obstacles, into and through water jumps and gallop quickly between obstacles, all for time - you’ll see the riders constantly checking their stopwatches! Bring a picnic blanket or camp chairs, pick the jump you find the most interesting and have a picnic while watching these amazing horses and riders.”

Mayor of Camden, Cr Theresa Fedeli, said it was exciting to have a world-class event right here in Camden.

“This is the perfect opportunity for residents to watch an exciting display of competition while enjoying the beautiful Camden Town Centre and the many fantastic local businesses we have here,” she said.

“I recommend making a day of it – come to see the competition and maybe stay for lunch or dinner and even site-see across the area.”

For more information, visit equestriad.com.au