Even though the conditions were very trying, the horses looked beautiful and the riders must be commended on the high standard of training, turnout and presentation.  Most of the horses worked very well, and it seems that riders are placing greater emphasis on the education -  with correct bend and suppleness the result - for a Dressage rider, this is pleasing.

I will be reporting on  the event in much more detail (when my computer gets out of 'hospital', it had a massive heart attach requiring a heart transplant - new hard disk - and this is being fixed right now)

In the heat, wind and generally very unpleasant conditions I thought of the many people who gave up their time and the comfort of a cooler place to be, in order to be part of  this event to ensure that it went smoothly and maintained the great reputation of being one of Australia's premier show horse events .  Without the interest and support of the many volunteers, their would be no VASA, and I hope that the competitors can spare a thought for the wonderful and generous contribution that is made ... to give them a sport

The Saddle horse Champions were all worthy winners with the VASA Champion Saddle Horse and the VASA Champion Saddle Galloway giving this year's event a definite feeling of deja vue, as this time last year they were both in the same place accepting the same award.  This is a fantastic achievement  and is very high praise for the training and care that these horses receive all year round.

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Champion Saddle Horse Erte, ridden by Maree Tomkinson
Champion Saddle Galloway Good Will Hunting and Pam Ahern
Champion Large Saddle Pony Morningside Step Ahead, ridden by Justine Jones
This was a very popular win as the pony is owned by Dianne Orchard who, not so long ago,  lost her daughter Joanne, who was a talented and keen show rider.  Dianne has also lost her husband and dad, so this win will have bought some joy into the year 2002 - and we all hope it is only the beginning for her.
Champion Small Pony Stanton Park Rave Review ridden by Natalie Mirovich and the
Champion Saddle Shetland Avonleigh Sherlock and Olivia Centrone

The Champion Senior Rider was Shelley Penny she is here riding Manderville and this horse was the Champion VASA Show Hunter Large Saddle Horse.  The Champion Rider 16 years and under was Kate Hassell, pictured here behind Shelley.

Champion VASA Show Hunters
Kate Hassell's mount, Manderville ridden by Shelley Penny,
Rosewood Park Protégé and Buena Vista Vanessa ridden by Sam Richardson.

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