The Paris 2024 equestrian competition unfolded in the stunning gardens of the historic Château de Versailles, where Australia proudly competed in all three equestrian disciplines: Eventing, Dressage and Jumping.
The first medals of the Games were awarded in Eventing, both for team and individual efforts.
In a bittersweet conclusion for Australia, as team hopes unravelled during the cross-country phase. Kevin McNab made the decision to retire his horse, Don Quidam, on course to prioritise the horse's welfare, which resulted in a 200-point penalty, along with an additional 20-point penalty for substituting reserve combination Shenae Lowings and Bold Venture for the Jumping phase.
Australia ultimately finished in 15th place.
Despite this setback, dual Olympian Christopher Burton delivered a sensational performance, securing the Individual silver medal with his horse, Shadow Man. After a textbook Dressage test, Chris showcased his prowess in cross-country, living up to his reputation as one of the fastest riders in the world.
In Dressage, Australia’s team of Jayden Brown on Quincy B, William Matthew on Mysterious Star, and Simone Pearce on Destano delivered impressive Grand Prix tests, successfully qualifying Australia for the Team Final.
Remarkably, they were the only nation outside of Europe to achieve this milestone. Australia finished 10th overall, though no riders advanced to the Individual Final.
History was also made in Paris with Australia fielding an all-female Jumping team, consisting of Hilary Scott on Milky Way, Thaisa Erwin riding Hialita B, and Edwina Tops-Alexander riding Fellow Castlefield. However, it was a challenging Games for the Jumping squad, as Australia did not progress to either the Team or Individual Finals.
