Written by:  Tanya Rutter 29/07/2014

The Far South Coast Dressage Association (FSCDA) hosted a weekend of dressage at Bega Showground on the 26-27th July. The weather was glorious and riders travelled from as far afield as Cooma, Nimmitabel, Wyndham, Nethercote and Moruya to participate.

The club was extremely lucky to secure the services of Mark Dowling an Equestrian Australia accredited coach and judge based at Bowral.  Mark is currently riding FEI and competing nationally, he is also riding CDI International Events at Small Tour with a view to starting Grand Prix by the end of the year.

On Saturday riders had the opportunity to book a 30 minute protocol session with Mark where they could receive feedback on any training issues they were experiencing. Mark focuses his training equally on the horse and rider with a goal to extract the very best from both in a calm, sympathetic manner to make the combination harmonious.

The club also organised a Jumping Equitation Clinic conducted by very well known local equestrian Marie Smith. Marie is a very highly regarded Jumping Equitation judge who travels throughout NSW each year to judgeat the PCA NSW State Jumping Equitation Championships.

Both sessions thoroughly enjoyed by the participants and spectators alike.

Sunday was a Club Competition Day were those who were fortunate enough to ride under Mark on Saturday were able to put the training advice to good effect in the competition ring. There were some excellent improvements seen. Mark was joined in the judging by Kim Kleven from Cooma and Mark Cloonan from Sale in Victoria.

There were in excess of 60 tests booked over five levels from Preparatory to Medium. The day saw an number of excellent tests ridden. Leigh Richardson from Coolagoolite had a great day competing two horses (Quarryview Hercules and Holland Bend Fidelia) in four tests for four first placings.

Our junior riders, Paige Moxey, Alice Dean, Shelly Kleven and Jade Moxey were all very competitive taking home many placings.

Paul Phelan from Cobargo received Mark Dowling’s encouragement award in recognition of his improvement over the two days. Kim Kleven awarded Colleen Meredith of Bega the Ring 1 encouragement award. Full results can be found on the club website.

The next monthly meeting will be held on the 5th August at Club Bega commencing at 7pm. All members and friends are encouraged to attend.

The clubs next event will be a Working Equitation competition to be held at the Cobargo Showground on the 17th August. Entries close Wednesday 6th August. For further information and online entries visit the club website at Enter HERE.  New members and spectators are always most welcome.