Source: Takapoto Estate Show Jumping

New Zealand’s best showjumpers step up a notch with the second week of competition at Takapoto Estate Show Jumping at Lake Karapiro.

Week one was a resounding success, despite challenging weather, and with a near perfect forecast on the cards, hopes are high for something quite exceptional.

One of the world’s leading course designers Frank Rothenberger from Germany will be challenging the riders in the top classes. Competition proper gets underway on Thursday morning with gold, silver and bronze tour qualifiers, building to a crescendo with finals through to Sunday.

There are 31 combinations on the card for the Gold Tour. The very in form Tegan Fitzsimon and her gorgeous Windermere Cappuccino won the final in the first week but won’t be starting this week. However, there is a huge contingent of very strong horses and riders just waiting to fill her spot including the current Australian senior champion Amber Fuller along with former Olympians Clarke Johnstone, Maurice Beatson – who won the Gold Tour in 2018 – and Olympic Cup winners Claudia Hay, Briar Burnett-Grant and Lily Tootill.

The silver and bronze tours are equally as sought after with some superb combinations entered. Demand has been unprecedented for the VIP events, which are all completely sold out.

Admission to the show during week days is free, with tickets to weekend competition available through https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2019/takapoto-estate-show-jumping/cambridge.

Takapoto Estate philanthropists Mitchell and Kate Plaw both grew up in the Waikato and are deeply entrenched in New Zealand high performance sport, pathway and community sport. This is their way of giving back to the community.

The event is nestled amongst more than half a million native trees on a stunningly landscaped 600 acres that rolls gently down to the shores of Lake Karapiro. Takapoto Estate is a brand synonymous with quality – whether it be world-class equestrian, its award-winning wines or supreme Angus and venison.

The investment by the Plaws in New Zealand showjumping is second-to-none. They have sought to create the very best in footing for horse and rider, bringing in international experts to ensure just that. Takapoto Estate Show Jumping lifts the standard of New Zealand showjumping to a whole new level – it has been applauded by riders, spectators and sponsors. It leads the way for the nation and can only mean better things for the future.

WHAT: Takapoto Estate Show Jumping
WHEN: February 27-March 3, 2019
WHERE: 90 Finlay Road, Maungatautari, Cambridge
MORE INFO: www.takapoto.co.nzor follow on Facebook Takapoto Estate Show Jumping
TICKETS: https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2019/takapoto-estate-show-jumping/cambridge