The team traveled over 3 states and headed south to the EA Show Horse Nationals the pinnacle of Horse & Rider Championships. Held at the Werribee Park National Equestrian Centre In Victoria.over the weekend 5-7 December. With blustery cool conditions it was an opportunity to soak up the cool air and catch up with interstate friends.

Universal prides itself on matching new combinations of horse and riders and what a delight to witness some of these horses at the Nationals continue their journey with wonderful new homes and keen and capable riders.

ROLEX II & Kaitlin
Kaitlin Labahn and her beautiful Rolex were certainly on point. It was 2 years ago Kaitlin wrapped Liam up for travel in all his new gear and matching truck. And it was with tears we said goodby to ‘Liam’ - Kaitlin was just 16 years old and 2 years later they have proven to be a great team representing their home State Victoria winning both the Champion Child’s Large Hack and the Open Large Hack. What an achievement.

ST ANDREWS & Natalie
It was just 12 months ago Natalie McKay and St Andrews new partnership was started. What a thrill for us to watch their success and achievements unfold throughout their first year together and to finish the year with OTT 2019 National Champion and also a 3rd in the large Open Hack. Also representing Victoria each time Natalie & Andy entered the ring they worked foot perfect and were picture perfect. Fabulous duo and fantastic results.

LANGTREE IN VOGUE
Georgia Fairweather is the proud owner of Timmy and has teamed up Timmy with Ada Spring to be the jockey in the Child’s Large Pony. A terrific workout and rewarded with Runner Up. Fabulous results.

DANSON DAKOTA & Mel
Dakota came to Universal Stables for a 6 month stay to continue his training whilst his owner Mel Harding was busy producing her own offspring. At the end of his stay Dakota finished with a bang with Phil in the saddle winning the Grand Champion Hunter Horses at the SHC Grand Nationals held in March this year. Representing their home state of South Australia Mel has continued Dakotas journey with growing confidence and success. And what a way to finish the year with Champion Large Show Hunter. What a show.

BRADGATE FEDERER & Kate
Young Kate Kyros & Federer have become a formidable combination wining their riders at all the Royals from Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney & Brisbane. Representing her home state South Australia Kate rode the mighty Federer in the Rider 12 - 14 and what a performance with rhythm and accuracy they were rewarded with runner Up.

HOLLANDS BEND ROYAL CONSORT & Syenna
Syenna & the stunning HB Royal Consort (By Royal Classic) are proving to be consistent performers with their first year of competition earning solid wins at this year Canberra, Sydney and Melbourne Shows. Qualifying to represent their home state of Victoria Syenna and Annikan (as we know him around the stables) put on a super performance and gaining a score in the tough class for Large Hunter Hack. A great duo to watch.

A few of the team were attending for the first time and all performed beautifully. A mix of young riders and young horses all taking in the atmosphere and putting on a show. Samantha Watt ‘s Extatic GHP with Paris Graham on board finished in the top 3 in the Child’s Small Hunter Hack.

Whether its a first time at the Nationals or the 10th time it is always an achievement to represent your state. Congratulations to all. With the team returned to Queensland its a well earned break for horses and riders. 2020 is fast approaching and Universal has some wonderful and exciting newcomers to look forward to.

Location

Werribee State International Equestrian Centre