Victoria’s premier equestrian competition, the Melbourne International 3 Day Event (MI3DE), is gearing up to showcase the versatility of Off The Track (OTT) horses, with 120 retired racehorses ready to take center stage. Among them is the former turf star Zaaki, who will headline the event set to unfold over the King’s Birthday long weekend at the picturesque Werribee Park precinct.
Racing Victoria’s OTT program, a vital initiative supporting retired racehorses, returns as an official Event Partner for MI3DE. The competition, running from Thursday, 5 June to Monday, 9 June, features various events highlighting the capabilities of retired racehorses in diverse equestrian disciplines, attracting participants from across Australia.
The MI3DE will host the Off The Track CCN1*Long competition exclusively for Stud Book-registered thoroughbreds claimed on the OTT Community. This year, 29 entrants will vie for top honors, with Racing Victoria’s sponsorship easing entry costs for competitors. The Yulong Stud Rising Stars competition, open to retired racehorses that last competed within two years, will see 33 entrants, including the illustrious Zaaki and Stakes winner Great House.
Event attendees can look forward to the Chris Burton Masterclass, where the top three Rising Stars placegetters will receive an exclusive invitation. Olympic silver medallist Chris Burton will share insights on re-training retired racehorses for eventing, offering valuable expertise to participants.
OTT Ambassador Amanda Ross will lead a behind-the-scenes tour of the cross-country course, offering a unique perspective on the event’s layout and challenges. The course winds through scenic locations such as the Werribee Open Range Zoo, the Mansion Hotel and Spa, the State Rose Garden, and the Melbourne Polo Fields.
Competitors riding Stud Book-registered thoroughbreds will receive personalized caps from Racing Victoria, showcasing their horse’s racing name. Notable participants include Shenae Lowings, who represented Australia at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games and will compete on her OTT Bold Venture in the CCI4*Long class.
The Victoria Racing Club (VRC) is extending its support to retired racehorses by offering a Melbourne Cup Carnival hospitality package for the Best Performed Thoroughbred in the elite CCI4*Long class and the Off the Track CCN1*Long.
Racing Victoria will unveil a new merchandise range at MI3DE, with profits directed towards post-racing programs. Melissa Ware, RV’s General Manager – Equine Welfare, emphasized the importance of showcasing OTT horses’ transition into secondary careers and their prominent role in the equestrian community.
With thoroughbreds constituting over half of the competing horses, the Melbourne International 3 Day Event serves as a crucial platform to demonstrate the intelligence and adaptability of these remarkable animals. The event aims to highlight the potential of retired racehorses and position them as the preferred breed in equestrian pursuits.
As the excitement builds for the upcoming event, participants and spectators alike eagerly anticipate witnessing the grace and skill of these Off The Track horses as they navigate the challenges and triumphs of the Melbourne International 3 Day Event.
📰 Related Articles
- Black Sabbath Tribute Event Showcases Birmingham’s Rising Metal Stars
- Wayfair Memorial Day Sale: Up to 50% Off Outdoor Essentials
- Walmart Memorial Day Sales: Up to 50% Off Tech & Furniture
- Recap of Albion Park’s Electrifying “Harness Racing” Event on May 3
- Queensland Greyhound Racing: Thrilling Ladbrokes 600m Event Showcases Sport’s Spirit