A RECORD field of 34 riders from four states of Australia have entered this year's Aachen Challenge competition.
The event is to be held during the Saddleworld Dressage Festival at the Werribee Park National Equestrian Centre from December 10-13.Open only to riders aged 16-25 years, the Aachen Challenge is a highly coveted competition, with the winner receiving a trip to the famous Aachen CDIO in Germany.
Ridden at Prix St George level, the top three-placed riders from the qualifying event on the Saturday go into the final on Sunday.
For the final, each rider has to complete the test on their own as well as on the other two finalist's horses.
The event is a highly aspirational one for young riders, with many gaining entry by being able to borrow an experienced horse at this level of competition.
This year, seven riders have two horses each entered.
Alycia Targa, the 2007 winner of the competition, was Australia's first representative at the Young Rider World Cup Dressage final in Germany.
The Saddleworld Dressage Festival has attracted more than 350 riders, from all states around Australia.
The festival incorporates the Victorian dressage championships as well as the Pacific League World Cup final and a paraequestrian competition of international status.
Tickets will be available for purchase each day at the gate.
- For more details, phone Caroline Coleby on 0432 505 774.
