Waratah Showjumping returns to Sydney for exhilarating 3rd World Cup

The equestrian world is set to come alive as the prestigious Waratah Showjumping (WSJ) event returns for its much-anticipated 3rd World Cup edition at the Sydney International Equestrian Centre (SIEC). Held over two weekends in August, the event kicks off with a Warm Up Weekend, followed by the thrilling World Cup weekend, attracting top riders from Australia’s eastern states and even a few from New Zealand, adding an international flavour to the competition.

With over 550 horses, 330 riders, and an impressive 3,300 rounds of jumping, WSJ is a grand affair. The action unfolds in three arenas, keeping participants and officials busy as they navigate the vast SIEC grounds. Ring 3, located in the Olympic Arena, offers a safe and exciting experience for young and inexperienced riders, with lower jump heights starting at 75cm and even lower when it moves indoors.

The World Cup is one of the most prestigious events on the Australian showjumping calendar, attracting Australia’s best riders.

The Main Arena, known as Ring 1, is housed in the Indoor Arena, boasting a fabulous synthetic surface that is highly favoured by senior riders. The adjacent Trade Village adds an undercover shopping extravaganza to the event, providing visitors with an extra dose of excitement.

Event Director Edwena Mitchell expressed her gratitude to the event’s sponsors, noting that their unwavering support is the lifeblood of such occassions. “Events on such a scale don’t happen without sponsorship – our sponsors, big and small are a great bunch and thoroughly deserve every mention I can give them,” Mitchell said.

The Waratah World Cup receives tremendous support from sponsors such as Apiam Agnes Banks Equine Clinic, Chatham Park, EMCEE Apparel, Orchard Equestrian, and Keeden Contracting.

Spectators soaking up the atmosphere at the World Cup.

In line with its commitment to the sport’s development, WSJ includes the Oaks Sport Horses Young Horse Day, allowing riders to focus on their young horses without the distractions of multiple rings. This year, the event welcomes esteemed International Course Designer Peter Gillespie from the UK, who will mentor junior course designers (CD) in Rings 2 and 3, providing a unique learning opportunity.

Mark Atkins, a Level 3 FEI CD and local talent from Hawkesbury, will serve as the CD for Ring 1, creating a progressive and seamless experience for the horses throughout the competition.

For spectators, entry to the WSJ event is free, offering an opportunity to soak in the equestrian splendour. It’s worth noting, however, that the Indoor Arena kindly requests visitors to leave their canine companions at home. For more in-depth details,  visit the official website at waratahshowjumping.com.au or reach out to Edwena Mitchell at edwena@emcater.com.au.