CDI Sydney - NSW Dressage Championship

A Clean Sweap for Ann Serrao and Vickie Robertson

November 1, 2004

The final day of the NSW Dressage Championships CDI-W at the Sydney International Equestrian Centre saw even more success for Vickie Robertson and Ann Serrao in the two FEI freestyle events and the prestigious Prix St Georges Challenge.

The GP Freestyle was taken out by Ann Serrao on Centaur, following on from their victory in the GP only the day before. Centaur danced through his country music themed freestyle showing excellent extensions and changes. Ann said Centuar, “felt absolutely beautiful at times through the test, although I was a little disappointed with the few mistakes.” Ann and Centaur scored 67.475% ahead of Heath Ryan on Greenoaks Dundee (66.7%) and Sue Hearn on Manhattan (65.75%).

Ann is excited about Centaur’s future as one of this country’s best GP horses. “More time and more strength should give him and myself more confidence, but he consistently improving at each outing.” Ann was also impressed with the SIEC facility.” I love competing here. It’s the best facility in Australia with a fantastic atmosphere. The organisers know how to run a show, if there are any glitches we as riders don’t feel them.”

Vickie Robertson capped off an incredible competition by winning the Intermediate Freestyle and the PSG Challenge in fine style. On her huge gelding, Northern Invader, Vickie dominated the FEI small tour events, winning both PSG classes and the Inter I/Inter Freestyle classes.

The PSG Challenge was contested by the best PSG combinations from across Australia.

Vickie said her test on Northern Invader which scored 66.2% “felt fabulous coming into the arena. There was perhaps a small amount of tension but he was really trying his best. As the pressure is increasing he is becoming more stable and more consistent which is encouraging for the future.”

“The Intermediate II will be sometime next year, I’m not putting a time limit on myself, just when he feels right.” Vickie added.

In second place in the PSG Challenge was Rozzie Ryan on the beautiful Donna Carerra with 64.9% and third was one of the most attractive combinations of the entire event, Shane Ackerly and his divine stallion Tallyho Jupiter with 63.5%. Shane said of his ride, “I was really happy with it, almost glowing after the final halt. It is encouraging to know that with more and more large competitions being held indoors that your horse is comfortable in that situation. It’s (the PSG Challenge) is a great concept that encourages growth in the sport. The calibre of horses has shot upwards and the depth of good horses is encouraging for the future of Australian dressage.”

by Wendy Cohen
Image copyrighted: Julie Wilson

Related Links:
Serrao In the Lead in 2004 New South Wales Dressage Championship
Scores CDI Sydney