From Equstrian Sports (25 April 2010)

The New Zealand Young Rider eventing team has retained the Trans Tasman Challenge in a climactic finish as part of the NZCT South Island FEI Three Day Event.

Heading into the final day of competition the New Zealand team was dealt two blows with the loss of Devan Wilson and Upbeat Lady, and Simon Gordon with Simply Mitch, both who were withdrawn. The team went into the show jumping with five rails in-hand over the Australians, who were also down to three team members, meaning all scores would count for the final team standings.

First to go for the Aussies Elizabeth Moore on Sebastian Bach gave the Kiwis some further breathing space taking one rail. Kiwi Douglas Thomson was the next to go producing a perfect clear round. Next in was Australia’s Crystal Conning, riding Marcus Aurelius, who also had four faults. The last rider for the Aussies Jessica Manson on Legal Star produced a clear round upping the pressure of the two remaining Kiwi riders.

Taumaranui’s Ashleigh McKinstry on Pioneer Makokomiko rose to the challenge, producing a foot perfect clear round, cementing New Zealand’s position with one rider to go. Leader going into the show jumping, Ashburton’s Larissa Srhoy on Starburst was last to go. Not renowned for their show jumping prowess, Srhoy rode a confident round to finish with eight faults, giving the Kiwi team a clear victory.

“I am absolutely delighted. I thought it was well-deserved; it shows what talent we have in store for the future,” said Tinks Pottinger New Zealand team coach.