Australian teams were winners in an international competition involving horses known for their sprinting speed and agility, at Tatura Park on Friday, October 3 and Saturday, October 4.
The Trans-Tasman Challenge brought together Australian and New Zealand Quarter Horse associations for a week of competitions, training and camaraderie.
They only face off every two years and alternate between countries.
Amateur and youth participants demonstrating superior horsemanship, leadership, showmanship and goodwill are selected to represent Australia.
Clinics were held during the week leading up to the competition, with instruction from a United States expert and judge.
Team members competed in the Tatura Park indoor arena in a range of challenge events, which include Showmanship, Western Horsemanship, Trail, Ranch Riding, Hunter Under Saddle and Hunt Seat Equitation events.
The Australian teams won both the amateur section (by 25 points) and the youth section (by 31 points).
It was a competition run down to the wire, with the final outcome hinging on the last class, so the outcome wasn’t known until the Saturday night dinner.
Although a team event, New Zealanders actually went home with more individual gold medals.