Thursday night at Willinga Park saw the 2025 Trans-Tasman Senior Test Series decided, with Australia ultimately claiming a thrilling win.
Producing a terrific performance under pressure, the Australia Green Team finished on a score of zero to claim the win over New Zealand and Australia Gold.
Led by Chef d’Equipe David Sheppard, the team comprised of Phillip Lever and Billionaire NZPH, Jamie Winning-Kermond and Tulara WAT Colblensky, Gemma Creighton and Dada Des Brimbelles Z, and Billy Raymont with Caprino.
Double clears went to Phillip and Billionaire NZPH, Jamie and Tulara WAT Colblensky, Gemma and Dada Des Brimbelles Z – and although Billy elected to retire Caprino in round one and had two rails in round two, it wasn’t a problem with the top three scores to count.
A perfect scorecard meant the Australia Green Team jumped to victory and secured the overall series – adding to their win from round one at Waratah World Cup Show last month.
The New Zealand team of Sophie Scott and Normandy GHP, Emma Gillies and Lafayet Ego Z, Samantha Whale and Fleur DeLacour, and Logan Massie and Bravado Ego Z, performed well for second on a combined total of 16 after winning the second leg at Tamworth World Cup Show a few weeks back.
The Australia Gold Team, comprised of Clem Smith and Oaks Calypso, Anneliese Wansey and Texas, Sam Overton and Cha Cha Blue GHP, and Mattea Davidson with Checkamour D, also finished on a combined total of 16, but they were left behind New Zealand based on time.
The third leg of the 2025 Trans-Tasman Young Rider Test Series will be run Friday at Jumping@Willinga, where New Zealand will be looking to claim the hat-trick. All eyes then turn to the Willinga Park CSI1*-W World Cup Qualifier on Saturday.
