Champions rise at the 2025 Australian Dressage Championships

By Dana Krause

The 2025 Australian Dressage Championships concluded at the Sydney International Equestrian Centre after four days of outstanding performances, showcasing technical precision, expression, and true partnership between horse and rider. While smaller in entries than pre-covid years, the number of horses exceeded 2024 and  the standard of riding and horse quality across the upper levels reflected a sport on the rise – full of promise and professionalism.

In the Jill Cobcroft FEI CDI-W Grand Prix Freestyle, Jayden Brown and Willinga Park Quincy B produced an exceptional performance to score 74.135% and take home the FEI Big Tour National Championship. The pair impressed with their power, suppleness, and effortless transitions, reaffirming their place at the forefront of Australian dressage. Brown also filled the runner-up spot with the elegant D’Esperanza (69.420%), while Jodie Dunstan and Hollands Bend Highlander earned third on 68.490% for a polished, expressive test.

Jayden’s winning streak continued in the Leader Equine CDN Grand Prix Freestyle, where he and Legendary scored 71.795%. Their confident, well-constructed test highlighted precision and control, delivering a performance that stood out for its technical quality and consistency.

The CDI-U25 division was dominated by Jessica Dertell and Kilimanjaro, who topped all three tests. Despite a few minor inaccuracies as the young stallion continues to develop strength and balance, their work displayed cadence, elasticity, and clear progression through the levels — confirming their growing strength as a combination.

The Dressage NSW Medium Tour belonged to Matthew Lord and Remi Vigneron, who impressed with commanding performances in every test, each scoring above 70%. The striking stallion showed expressive movement and a powerful yet controlled frame, while Matthew’s tactful riding ensured fluency and accuracy throughout. Their consistency across the week marked them as one of the standout partnerships of the Championships.

The Small Tour saw a standout performance from Katina Smith and BC Chilli Pepper, who completed a rare hat-trick – claiming victories in the Kohnke’s Own Prix St Georges, Dressage Queensland Intermediate I and Jarrett Arena Mirrors Intermediate I Freestyle. Their freestyle win on 72.260% was a fitting finale to a week that showcased their expressive, forward-thinking way of going. The bright chestnut’s energy and cadence shone through, proving that Katina’s patience from breeding and training BC Chilli Pepper continues to pay dividends.

Tia Rose McKenzie stepped up a level with her championship winning CDI-Junior horse, Phenomenon to win two out of three tests in their debut at CDI Young Rider level. The combination won the EBM RentCover CDI-Young Rider Freestyle with a highlight score of 69.845%, in a strong class with second place, Felicity Sutherland and Estee just 0.3% behind (69.510%).

In the Assistance Dogs Australia Medium Championship and Palm Beach Motor Yachts Advanced Championship, Matthew Dowsley and Bradgate Park Delaney continued their consistent form, taking titles in both divisions. The mare’s uphill movement and steady way of going reflected maturity and confidence, delivering cohesive performances throughout the week.

The McKinnon Sport Horses Novice Championship was hotly contested with just 2.6% separating first and ninth in the 2.3. The overall champion was secured by Harvey Besley and Birk Van De Vosjes, who were second in the 2.2 with 73.594% and first in the 2.3 with 72.619%. Reserve Champion was Caroline Hooper and First Sir who won the 2.2 with 74.219% and were seventh in the 2.3 with 70.952%.

The Dietmar Specht Trophy for riders 30 years and under, went to Jessica Dertell on the young stallion, Osaka P. The combination won both tests in the Wade Equine Elementary to secure the championship and this special award.

Danielle Keogh and Gomez S produced a super score of 74.740% in the Novice Pony 2.2 to win the Rod Barker Memorial Trophy awarded to the highest score of the Championships. All judges had the combination in first with scores varying from 72.656% to 78.594%.

Across all levels, the Championships offered compelling, closely contested classes that highlighted the depth of talent emerging within the Australian dressage scene. From established names to rising stars, the standard of presentation and professionalism was evident across the board. While the usual debate around judging surfaced — a reminder of the sport’s subjective nature — the overall standard of competition spoke volumes about the growing quality and sophistication of dressage in Australia.

The 2025 Australian Dressage Championships not only crowned new champions but also reflected a sport evolving in skill, depth, and international ambition — a fitting celebration of the dedication and excellence that continue to define Australian dressage.