Emma Flavelle-Watts and Scarlatti Mio VSR made a clean sweep of the CDI3* classes at the 2025 Boneo Park Winter CDI. Image by One Eyed Frog Photography.
The Boneo Park Winter CDI lived up to its name – a celebration of elite dressage that showcased quality, talent, and the unwavering spirit of the sport, even under trying weather conditions. Despite the wind, rain, and bone-chilling temperatures, the event ran seamlessly under the ever-positive and passionate direction of Fiona Selby.
Fiona’s tireless commitment to Australian dressage continues to shine, even as Boneo Park transitions under new ownership. Fiona remains at the helm with her trademark enthusiasm, making every rider and spectator feel welcome and part of the community.
The layout of the venue was a saving grace in the wild weather. The centrally located restaurant between the main and grass arenas offered a warm refuge, complete with a roaring fire, good coffee, and exceptional food – perfect for viewing the outdoor classes in comfort.
Catch up on all the live stream action here via ClipMyHorse.TV.
Amelia Maree and Noble Dancer. Image by James Abernethy Photography.
CLASSES WITH REAL SPARK
The CDI classes, though relatively small in number, were rich in quality and depth. The categories included the CDI3* Big Tour, Pony, Junior, Young Rider, Under-25, and the relatively new Children’s division – each drawing riders of remarkable skill.
The surfaces held up impressively despite the torrential overnight rain, allowing riders to produce fluent, confident tests.
The CDI Childrens, judged with two judges at E for rider effectiveness and one at C for overall test performance, saw Amelia Maree and the Palomino Noble Dancer come out on top winning both classes and scoring a notable 79.175% in the CDI-Ch Team Test.
The CDI Pony classes belonged to Abby Weel and the delightful Reitlands Obama. Winning all three classes with scores in the high 60s to low 70s, this imported pony was a real crowd favourite. However, it was no easy victory, with Hilkens No Kidding and Tess Baker – and other young talents like Zali Mills and Morgan Cockerell – snapping at their heels. It’s interesting to note that the experience from a trip to Germany to compete has influenced many of the young riders. It really showed, and the likes of Abby, Zali and Morgan, as well as Jessica Dertell, Tia Rose McKenzie and Rosemary Heagney, were all part of that Aussie contingent that attended the Future Stars competition at P.S.I. in Hagen last year.
Millie Fletcher and Amsterdam braving the wild weather. Image by One Eyed Frog Photography.
“This class proved the depth
of junior talent in Australia…”
In the CDI Junior class – sponsored by Equestrian Life – Millie Fletcher aboard the impressive Amsterdam put on a masterclass. Having only partnered with this horse for three months and riding her first Medium test less than a year ago, Millie won all three classes with polish and percentages over 70%. Her tests were precise, stylish, and emotionally engaging.
Close behind were riders such as Tia Rose Mackenzie with the striking Phenomenon, and also Shiva Wiedemann, Rosemary Heagney, Morgan Cockerell, Jessica Sharp, Zali Mills, and Bianca Griffith – all delivering high-quality performances and proving the depth of junior talent in Australia.
THE ROAD TO GRAND PRIX
The CDI Young Rider division was led by Jess Dertell and the elegant liver chestnut stallion Kilimanjaro, who won the Team and Individual tests. Close competition came from Franzisco RW and Tia Rose McKenzie, with the latter winning the Freestyle. What wonderful tests, horses and riding.
Both Kilimanjaro and Franzisco RW are horses destined for Grand Prix, and their performances hinted at the serious potential these combinations hold for the international stage.
Amy Bachmann riding her own SWS Debutante won the Pauline Carnovale CDI-U25 Grand Prix. Image by One Eyed Frog Photography.
“Their test demonstrated
excellent training and connection…”
In the Under-25 Grand Prix, Amy Bachmann and the fiery chestnut mare SWS Debutante were the clear stars. Their test demonstrated excellent training and connection, standing out even in a small but competitive field.
The final day belonged to Jasmine Haynes and Fan Fan 20. While earlier tests included some mistakes, their Freestyle was a true highlight: expressive, technical, and beautifully presented. This horse is one to keep an eye on.
A GLIMPSE INTO THE FUTURE
Though numbers in the CDI3* Big Tour were low, quality was high. Emma Flavelle-Watts and Scarlatti Mio VSR were outstanding in only their second Grand Prix, delivering strong performances in both the Special and Freestyle as well, with marks not far off 70% – and over 73% in the Freestyle.
Emma Flavelle-Watts and Scarlatti Mio VSR. Image by One Eyed Frog Photography.
Emma showed tact and finesse with the sensitive and powerful black gelding, riding him conservatively for now but clearly setting the foundation for big scores to come. This is a pair destined for greatness, once the full power is unleashed with confidence and time.
The 2025 Boneo Park Winter CDI was cold in climate but blazing hot in talent, sportsmanship, and organisation. Despite some inevitable judging discrepancies, the overall tone was overwhelmingly positive. If you’re looking to identify the horses of the future, look no further than Scarlatti Mio VSR, whose combination of elegance, strength, and training makes him a real star on the rise. This winter show was another brilliant feather in Boneo Park’s cap – and a testament to Fiona Selby’s enduring influence in the sport.
Well done to all involved for yet another exceptional competition. EQ
Catch up on detailed daily results reports from Roger Fitzhardinge:
Boneo Park Winter CDI – Friday 6 June.
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