Horsin’ around

By Monique Ebrington
ALL the action will be at Wandin Park this weekend for an international three-star event and the Australian National Championships.
Some of the top riders from across the country, and from around the world, will head to Wandin to compete in cross country, showjumping events and more.
There will also be dog agility demonstrations, a Shetland Grand National, a trade fair and pony rides across the weekend.
Celebrations will begin even before the horses are unloaded out of their floats, with Wandin Park celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.
Wandin Park owners John and Angela Anker have worked on the purpose built equestrian property over the last three decades and have played host to international riders, royalty and equestrian champions.
The Ankers’ daughter Emily is also an accomplished rider and has competed in equestrian events both nationally and overseas.
She said that Wandin Park was ‘up with the best’ of Australia’s equestrian properties because of its picturesque scenery and the way the course was laid out.
“With the la out of the hill you can see almost every jump, so it’s a much more spectator friendly and more exciting way to watch Eventing,” she said.
Ms Anker said that anyone interested in horses would enjoy the ‘excitement’ of the weekend events.
The international three-star event and the Australian National Championships will run from 9am to 4.30pm on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 March. Proceeds raised over the weekend will be donated to Yooralla.
Wandin Park is located along Victoria Road, in Wandin North. For more information on the event please phone 0419 891 207.