The phone call took me a little by surprise, although it definitely
was a good surprise! Legal Star (Trumby) had made the long
list for the Senior Australian Trans Tasman team to compete
against New Zealand at the Sydney International Horse Trials
in April. Placement on the long list was an honour, with Trumby
and I standing alongside the likes of Craig Barrett, Natalie
Blundell, Tim Boland, Soigne Jackson, Megan Jones, Seamus
Marwood, Shane Rose, Emma Scott and Stuart Tinney.
Albury International Horse Trials was a compulsory lead up
event for members of the Trans Tasman long list, after which a
squad of six would be chosen to go into camp at SIEC (Sydney
International Equestrian Centre). From the squad, a team of
four riders and two reserves would be selected. Trumby's
summer holiday came to an abrupt end and planning for a five
week trip east swung into action.
Capel 2* in April, was Trumby's only WA competition before
heading East to base with Sam Lyle in Sutton Forest, NSW.
Dad and I pulled out of the Swan Valley on the Thursday
following Capel. Legal Contender (Leroy) was a last minute
inclusion in the plans, as we thought the experience would
do him good and Trumby was pleased with the company (if
not just a little annoyed at Leroy's immaturity and general
over-exuberance). Four days later we arrived at Sutton Forest
after an incident free trip across the Nullabour, and the boys
were pleased to be turned out into a paddock. Dad hopped on
a plane straight back home to work.
Sutton Forest was an ideally located base and I was fortunate
enough to be able to train with Brett Parbery and George
Sanna, who both lived nearby, in the lead up to Albury. I made
Top: The Trans Tasman team L-R: Seamus Marwood,
Emma' Scotts's groom, Emma Scott, Jess Manson,
Lauren Dunning, Stuart Tinney, Cara (Stuart's groom),
Nat Blundell, Britannia Peete, Craig's Barrett, Craig's
groom, Prue Barrett, Veterinarian Nathan Anthony.
Above: Groom Lauren Dunning with Legal Star.
Trans Tasman Adventure