The AWHA inaugural Free-jumping class set the scene at Oaks Sporthorses, with age classes for horses 3-5 years old, and 6 and over. Our horses are not schooled for free-jump competition like they are in Europe, so it was a new experience for organisers, handlers and horses. A large crowd on on-lookers watched as German judge, Bettina Hoy and Rod Brown put the horses through the lane, challenging and extending the bold, and encouraging the less experienced horses.
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Jumping was followed by a panel discussion with judge, Bettina Hoy, Shane Rose and Rod Brown. AWHA president, Julane Bowen prompted the 3 Olympians into sharing their thoughts and experiences on selecting horses for the top sport.
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Their stories and advice kept the audience spellbound with their candour and openness in sharing.The night moved on to dinner, drinks and a great deal of discussion and enthusiasm to have the Free Jumping an annual event. The panel was entertaining as well as informative. Congratulations to the AWHA on this innovation.