Standardbred enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the 2024 Royal Melbourne Show, where not just one, but two magnificent horses are set to take the stage at the prestigious event.
Having achieved much success at the Sydney Royal Show, where he was sashed Best Led Standardbred, Hero Ambassador Kasbah Kid (aka Hollis) is preparing to compete in new classes at Melbourne, aiming to build on his previous accomplishments and further demonstrate his versatility and skill in different arenas
Contesting the Light Hunter Shown in Saddle, Hollis is poised to showcase the unique talents and adaptability of the standardbred against the highest quality horses in the country.
“It’s very exciting to promote standardbreds in another category at a Royal Show”, explains Brooke Sweeney, of Fox Equestrian.
“We’ve been out hunting all winter to qualify for Melbourne Royal, along with a few agricultural shows to get Hollis back into the swing of shows”.
Fellow Hero Ambassadors Katie West and her standardbred Future Bliss (Barry) are also preparing for this year’s Melbourne Royal, this time with a newfound sense of composure and confidence.
As they get ready to compete, Katie reflects on their journey from their first attempt in 2022 to the present, highlighting the growth and relaxation they have both experienced in their partnership.
“I’m certainly a lot calmer than I was this time two years ago”, Katie reflects, with a laugh.
“My sister, Emma, has qualified for Melbourne Royal on her thoroughbred and she will be contesting some of the hack classes. We’ve requested to be stabled next to each other and it’ll be extra special to share the experience with Em!”
“This will likely be a bit of a last hoorah for Barry, in terms of pursuing high-level showing, which can be very intense both financially and with the effort required to qualify for a Royal.
“We plan to switch things up a bit from next year and maybe try some show jumping, which Barry loves. Going into Melbourne Royal with this mindset has really taken the stress out of preparations and allowed me to enjoy the experience”.
Standy fans attending the Royal Melbourne Show can watch Barry and Hollis live in action on the following days:
Hollis
30th September:
4pm – Light Hunter, shown in saddle
Barry
Friday 4th October:
4pm – Providence Cup; Show Hunter Galloway
Saturday 5th October:
9:30 – Novice Show Hunter Galloway, 14.2-15 hands
10:45 – Child’s Show Hunter Galloway 14.2 – 15 hands (with Keira Barton)
12pm – Open Show Hunter Galloway 14.2 – 15 hands
12:30- Ladies Show Hunter Galloway 14 – 15 hands
