Equestrian events are always popular at the Bellingen Show, and the organisers have plans to enhance the audience experience at this year’s show on May 5– 6.
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The Rescue Relay Showjumping event is new and guaranteed to captivate and entertain. It will be held after the Grand Parade on the Saturday afternoon.
Watching the various arena events in action can be exciting. But when we have an insight into what the judges are looking for and what comprises a great performance, our viewing enjoyment is heightened.
So, the coordinators will be attaching Information Cards to the arena and around the grandstands explaining what the horses and their riders are doing in their discipline and why. This will put the audience right into the picture.
It’s always fascinating to get a little background into the competitors’ perspective on the show, and while we can’t get it literally “from the horse’s mouth”, Rob Bradford, one of last year’s winners, gave us this insight …
“My name is Rob Bradford and I have been with horses all my life. I grew up in Narrabri where my mother ran a horse riding school and as I got older I continued with the equestrian world – but more so in dressage and hacking.
“2017 was to be Definitely Maybe's last Agricultural show and this happened to be the Bellingen Show. I always love to attend this show as it really is what an Agricultural show should be.
“We were lucky enough to win the Supreme Led Exhibit in 2017 amongst a strong field of contenders. Goofy, as I call him, has had a very successful show life after a nearly tragic end in his time racing. During that period I had received a phone call to go to the racetrack and get a horse, before a truck arrived to take him to the knackery. Not knowing what he even looked like, I raced into town to get him. How lucky am I? I love him to bits.
“Over 10 years competing at the Bellingen Show, Definitely Maybe has been Champion Hack, Champion Thoroughbred, Champion ANSA and carried champion riders. A truly lovely horse.”
If you’d like to get the inside scoop on the show this year, consider helping the equestrian organisers, Pattie Hoschke and Elaine Leader. They need assistance setting up the show jumping course, support in the office, volunteering as ring stewards and more. Email your interest to: hosco10@hotmail.com
Save the Date:
Bellingen Agricultural Show
May 5-6
Bellingen Showground
Black St, Bellingen
www.bellingenshow.com.au
