The Victoria Racing Club (VRC) is set to showcase its support for the Adelaide Equestrian Festival, an event that highlights the prowess of retired racehorses in the equestrian sport of eventing. This festival, held at Victoria Park, will see Australia’s top thoroughbreds competing in the CCI3*L and CCI5*, with the VRC offering prizes for the Best Performed Thoroughbred in these categories.
Among the highlights of the festival is the presentation of a hospitality package for the 2025 Melbourne Cup Carnival valued at $2,500, along with a presentation rug, by Australian Olympian and VRC Ambassador Amanda Ross. The festival, a premier equestrian competition in Australia, draws over 30,000 spectators annually and is the only 5-star level event in the Southern Hemisphere.
Notably, the success of the Australian eventing team at the Paris Olympic Games has brought further attention to the equestrian sport, with former racehorses like Bold Venture and his rider Shenae Lowings making a mark in the CCI4*S and now gearing up for the CCI5* at the Adelaide Equestrian Festival. Additionally, four-time Olympian Shane Rose will be returning from injury to compete in the CCI5* on two thoroughbreds.
Thoroughbreds have a rich history of excelling in equestrian eventing post-racing, contributing significantly to Australia’s Olympic successes. The Adelaide Equestrian Festival has seen iconic performances from horses like WillingaPark Clifford and his rider Hazel Shannon, who have dominated the CCI5* competition. This year, the 19-year-old WillingaPark Clifford continues to impress, showcasing the enduring talent of off-the-track thoroughbreds.
VRC CEO Kylie Rogers expressed the club’s joy in supporting retired racehorses transitioning to elite equestrian careers. She highlighted the exceptional bond between horses and riders in equestrian sport, emphasizing the thrill of watching these athletes in action. The VRC’s involvement in the festival reflects its commitment to promoting the talents of off-the-track thoroughbreds.
Event Director of the Adelaide Equestrian Festival, Belinda Lindh, echoed the sentiment, welcoming the VRC’s sponsorship for the third consecutive year. She emphasized the significance of thoroughbreds in top-level eventing, noting that a third of the CCI5* class comprises horses originally bred for racing. The festival aims to showcase the versatility and athleticism of these exceptional athletes post-racing.
The Adelaide Equestrian Festival promises an exciting display of talent at Victoria Park from 1-4 May 2025. With the support of the VRC, this event celebrates the ongoing success of retired racehorses in the world of elite equestrian sport.
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