From: Virtual Equestrian (dated 01 July 2010)

Former New South Welshman John Twomey recently made the trip across the Tasman with his 11 YO, 17 hand jumping machine Highly Recommended.  They came to take advantage of the first class competition offered at the Melbourne 3 Day Event, held over the Queens Birthday weekend, at the beginning of June.  John reminisces that he took part at this prestigious outing for eventers at Novice level  back in 1989.  He had a great time with his 15 YO brother, who shared the experience as his groom. A lot has changed and 2010 sees John with a very good horse and serious prospects of riding for New Zealand at the 2012 London Olympic Games. Like many of his peers, John has suffered the ups and downs of the sport but says, “When you have a horse like HR the ups far outweigh the down moments!”.

Formerly from NSW, John and Caroline (Hooper) made their home in New Zealand about 10 years ago and immediately fitted in with the horse scene and the beautiful countryside of Cambridge.  Read more ...