Event organiser Cathie Drury-Klein said the idea to host an international Medium Tour came about naturally as they already were running many CDI classes.
“We thought, well, we’ve got the judges here – why not run it?” Cathie said. “It’s the next step up after the CDI1*, which is Prix St Georges and Intermediate I, so this will give riders a chance to compete in Intermediate A and B at an international level.”
Cathie says the addition is an important progression for the sport.
“When Medium Tour has been run in Australia before, it’s only been at national-level (CDN) – never international – so this is a big first.”
A relatively new level in dressage, Medium Tour has only been in the sport for around 11 years. It is designed as a bridge between Small Tour and the Big Tour (Grand Prix), introducing the most advanced elements for the first time while still offering leeway. While Medium Tour competitor numbers are relatively small in Australia, they have been steadily growing – as has the quality.
Entries open this week
Entries for the 2026 EBM Dressage by the Sea (19-22 February) open this week on Nominate, with enthusiasm already building online thanks to community support from riders and event partners.
The event also coincides with the 10th anniversary of Dressage by the Sea, and organisers are planning to celebrate in style.
“We’ve got lots of activities we hope everyone will enjoy,” Cathie said. “There will be the massive riders’ party, a cocktail evening, the VIP lunch on Saturday, and we’re hoping to include some local produce stands to make it a real community weekend.”
Willinga Park Dressage by the Sea has become a highlight on the Australian dressage calendar, known for its atmosphere, world-class facilities, and social energy so much as its high-level sport. With the introduction of the international Medium Tour, the event continues to raise the bar for dressage in Australia.
