EQUESTRIAN: Maree Tomkinson has overcome a strong field to win the Grand Prix CDI at the Boneo Classic – an important event for Rio Olympic hopefuls.

Partnering with her World Equestrian Games horse, Diamantina 4, Tomkinson was the standout of the day, winning the class with a convincing 70.120%. The next nearest competitor was sole international entry, New Zealand’s Julie Brougham (Vom Feinsten) who scored 68.720%.

Tomkinson said it was good to be competing outdoors and in conditions which favoured her horse.

“She’s a lot better and much happier (in an) outside (arena). We’re incredibly lucky to be competing outside because normally at this event we are inside. Outdoors and in big arenas, that is where she shines,” said Tomkinson.

The Boneo Classic is an opportunity for Australian based Dressage riders to obtain qualifying scores which may count towards Rio nomination. The event has attracted a who’s who of Australian dressage riders who are eager to secure a position on Australia’s four member team at the Olympic Games which are now less than 200 days away.

Four-time Olympian Mary Hanna brought two horses to the event and they finished third and fourth. Her more experienced horse Umbro received a score of 68.220% while her Grand Prix newcomer Boogie Woogie was awarded 67.720%.

Having won the Pacific League World Cup Final in December, Hanna will soon travel to Europe to compete in the FEI World Cup Final.

“Things at this point in time seem to be falling into place nicely,” said Hanna.

EQUESTRIAN AUSTRALIA