Jayden Brown and Quincy B claimed the CDI3* Grand Prix, Freestyle and Special at the tenth edition of Willinga Park’s Dressage by the Sea. Image Ashley Grant - The Blachat/Willinga Park.
The 10th anniversary of Dressage by the Sea at Willinga Park marked a significant milestone — a decade of extraordinary competition, remarkable horses, and performances that have steadily elevated the national standard.
Over ten fabulous years, Dressage by the Sea has evolved into one of Australia’s premier showcases of dressage excellence. The improvement in quality across so many classes is undeniable, and it is impossible not to acknowledge that the late Terry Snow’s vision for Willinga Park has played a pivotal role in fostering these performances.
For those who have not yet visited, Willinga Park is nothing short of extraordinary. The facilities are beyond comprehension: expansive, light-filled stables lined with rubber matting; immaculate hot and cold wash bays; beautifully prepared arenas — including warm-up areas — all manicured to perfection; and a stunning indoor arena that provides world-class footing regardless of weather. Elegant, airy, wonderful accommodation, a heated pool and gym facilities, and a vibrant selection of eclectic food outlets complete the experience. The list goes on and it really does have to be seen to be believed.
Over ten fabulous years, Dressage by the Sea has evolved into one of Australia’s premier showcases of dressage excellence. Image Ashley Grant – The Blachat/Willinga Park.
National riders’ representative Deon Stokes ran a judges and riders forum at Dressage by the Sea. Image by Roger Fitzhardinge.
JUDGES & RIDERS FORUM — A POSITIVE STEP FORWARD
The opening days generated considerable discussion among riders, coaches, owners and riders regarding scoring trends and placings. Marks appeared a little scattered across several classes, creating uncertainty about direction and expectations within the sport.
This culminated in an impromptu forum between FEI judges and riders, held in the beautiful convention centre at the heart of Willinga Park. National riders’ representative Deon Stokes moderated the discussion, encouraging constructive dialogue and positivity.
While no sweeping resolutions emerged, the forum was undeniably a step in the right direction — fostering greater understanding, transparency, and communication between judges and riders.
Dressage by the Sea’s judges. Image by Roger Fitzhardinge.
Jayden Brown and Quincy B with Ginette Snow. Image by Roger Fitzhardinge.
“The uphill frame,
harmonious contact,
and apparent ease
were exceptional…”
CDI3* — A STANDOUT GRAND PRIX PERFORMANCE
The CDI3* classes delivered depth and quality, with Quincy B, owned by Ginette Snow and ridden by Jayden Brown, producing the most outstanding performance of the event.
Jayden’s polish reflected his years training in England under Carl Hester whilst based there with a team of Willinga-sponsored horses fort several years. Quincy B won the Grand Prix, Freestyle and Special, with scores of 72.044%, 78.5% and 74.447% respectively. The latter was a record for a CDI Grand Prix Special test on Australian soil (the highest score by an Australian is 77.894%, achieved by Simone Pearce and Destano in the Czech Republic in 2020).
The uphill frame, harmonious contact, and apparent ease through the movements were exceptional. The canter pirouettes were highlights, earning 9s; the straightness and fluency in the changes was consistent; and the extended canter was imposing to say the least. The extended walk still offers room for improvement, while the piaffe and passage are still lacking the engagement and uphill tendency to eradicate some swaying — but they are improving all the time.
Jayden and Quincy B; the uphill frame, harmonious contact, and apparent ease through the movements were exceptional. Image Ashley Grant – The Blachat/Willinga Park.
Scarlatti Mio VSR (San Amour x World Diamond O) for Emma Flavelle-Watts was the dark horse in the field. In the Grand Prix and the Freestyle, he was shown in a snaffle bridle — which is now allowable at CDI3* competitions as of 1 January 2026. The duo placed second in these tests with 70.609% and 72.8% respectively.
In the Special, Emma rode him in a double bridle. Scarlatti began with an unsteady halt and became worried and walked backwards, refusing to move off in trot, for which they were rewarded two 2s and three 3s. However, the more the test continued, the more confident they became, with 8s in the pirouettes, the extended trot and passage. Then three 8s for the final halt for a total of 70.255%. What a horse, what a future — and with better confidence, look out Grand Prix percentages!
Emma Flavelle-Watts and Scarlatti Mio VSR, competing in a snaffle for the CDI3* Grand Prix. Image Roger Fitzhardinge.
Read more: EMMA FLAVELLE-WATTS & THE GENTLE GIANT – Equestrian Life, January/February 2026
Mary Hanna aboard Ivanhoe, (Desperado x Jazz), delivered scores of 69.128% in the Grand Prix and 69.128% in the Special despite a few costly mistakes. The duo did not contest the Freestyle. What a delightful horse, with Mary trying to get her head around what the judges were after and perhaps a little underpowered here.
FEI DRESSAGE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS
Regarding selection for the Australian team at the FEI Dressage World Championships (10-23 August 2026 in Aachen, Germany) this CDI3* competition gave combinations the opportunity to post a qualifying score.
Equestrian Australia’s selection policy states that eligible for selection, combinations must be consistently achieving scores approaching or exceeding 68% in at least two Grand Prix tests at CDI3* or above. The scores must be obtained at events where there is at least one Level 4 judge on the ground jury, of a nationality other than the athlete. As has always been the case, this score is higher than the FEI Minimum Eligibility Requirement (MER) of 66%.
Combinations must also show demonstrated experience in a minimum of two Grand Prix Special tests at CDI3* or higher events.
World rankings and Grand Prix Freestyle scores are not part of the set criteria. The qualifying period began on 1 January 2025 and runs until the nominated entries deadline of 6 July 2026. Of course, the Competition Criteria is only part of the EA Selection Policy – a range of other requirements and considerations come into play, including Discretionary Considerations. A few interesting points that the selectors will be considering is that the World Championships is held outdoors and it will be compulsory to ride in a double bridle (as the FEI has only approved the use of snaffle bridles up to CDI3* level). Many of the qualifying scores for the Australian riders have been only gained indoors and Emma Flavelle-Watts rode the Grand Prix and the Freestyle tests with Scarlatti Mio VSR in a snaffle at Dressage by the Sea. The FEI rule change, enacted on from 1 January this year, was perhaps due to social media pressure. Australia is somewhat stuck between a rock and a hard place, but it is in the pipeline to be dealt with.
Emma had Scarlatti Mio VSR in the double bridle for the CDI3* Grand Prix Special. Image Ashley Grant – The Blachat/Willinga Park.
Emma did ride Scarlatti in the double for the Grand Prix Special, with a strong score. This gelding is a very talented and sensitive horse and does not put up with anything but excellent riding. Emma is just this and more, and although they still need to become better established in front of the leg and into the contact, they really are a harmonious pair and each outing now Scarlatti is showing more and more confidence. Emma said while at Willinga Park how thrilled she was with him being so much more confident throughout the test and really knuckling down with more self-assurance; she excited and deservedly so.
Firstly, combinations need to qualify and then all the qualified horses will be assessed by the selectors: Lone Jørgensen, Dirk Dijkstra and Sally Rizzuto.
At this time, combinations that have fulfilled the competition criteria section of EA’s selection criteria (“achieving scores approaching or exceeding 68% in at least two Grand Prix tests at CDI3* or above” and “demonstrated experience in a minimum of two Grand Prix Special tests at CDI3* or higher”) include:
- Mary Hanna and Ivanhoe
- Jayden Brown and Quincy B
- Emma Flavelle-Watts and Scarlatti Mio VSR
- Jemma Heran and Total Recall
Several other combinations have partially met EA’s competition criteria or achieved FEI MERs, including Lyndal Oatley and Forever Young HRH, Simone Pearce and Will Marq, Jemma Heran and Total Recall, and John Thompson and MSJ Gatsby (New Zealand).
Mary Hanna and Ivanhoe competing at Dressage by the Sea. Image Ashley Grant – The Blachat/Willinga Park.
There are two remaining qualification events on Australian soil: Dressage & Jumping with the Stars in March, followed by the Sydney CDI in April. For those based overseas, there are still many opportunities to compete at CDI3*-and-above events between now and 6 July.
FUTURE OF THE SPORT
The CDI Junior classes provided an outstanding glimpse into the future of the sport. Across the three tests — Team, Individual and Freestyle — it was in the latter that Millie Fletcher and the imported gelding Amsterdam secured a convincing overall win, scoring 74.158% and finishing nearly three percent clear. The test was fluid, expressive and harmonious. Zali Mills followed in second on Royal Diamond Jubilee with 71.65%, while Marley Ara Yates finished third on Secret Rose. Marley and Secret Rose won the Team and Individual tests, with Millie Fletcher and Tess Baker closely behind riding Rubinell! With a field of ten strong combinations, the standard in this division was both encouraging and exciting. What great horses and what great riding!
Marley Ara Yates and Secret Rose in the CDI-J. Image by Roger Fitzhardinge.
The CDI Young Rider Team test saw Rosemary Heagney and MSJ Nemo claim victory on 68.676%. The horse, previously trained and competed by Rozzie Ryan, demonstrated quality and composure in a class where scoring ranged widely from first to fourth place — again prompting discussion around judging consistency. Angelina Thompson riding Arnage Royal Edition, Tia Rose McKenzie on Phenomenon, and Jazi French on Syriana all featured prominently.
In the CDI Under 25 Intermediate II, Jess Dertell and the stallion Kilimanjaro scored 68.765%, demonstrating presence and developing maturity at this level. This is a liver chestnut, modern, athletic stallion with plenty of spice in his step. Quite an athlete, and when he is on song he certainly makes some excellent marks — but is still needing confidence and composure in the ring. Jess has both hands full of enthusiasm and what a great combination, also winning The CDI-U25 Grand Prix on 68.718%.
The CDI Pony class, though small with three starters, was highly competitive. Milla Greenaway and SPB Robert Redford won two of the three classes, while Matia Hopwood and Clare Downs Arian Lledrith took the Freestyle. Robert Redford, an attractive chestnut gelding with an expressive way of going, shows lovely rhythm and tempo, and the harmony between pony and rider is particularly pleasing; what a great partnership they have developed.
YOUNG HORSE CLASSES — THE FUTURE ON DISPLAY
Held in the vast show jumping arena, the Young Horse classes (four, five, six and seven-year-olds) were a true highlight. The atmosphere carried pride and emotion as riders presented their developing stars on an international-calibre stage.
Four-Year-Olds
A standout stallion, Verstappen DS — owned and bred by David Shoobridge in Victoria, and ridden by Robbie McKinnon — claimed victory with 89.60 in the first round and 84.40 in the second round. The canter, awarded 9s in both rounds, was exceptional — expressive, balanced and naturally uphill. He is by Vitalis x Ampere. Beautifully conformed with a glorious front and look.
Five-Year-Olds
Matthew Lord rode the Remi Stud-bred Remi Braveheart (Bon Coeur x De Niro) to victory on 78.40 in round one and 81.60 in the second round. Already consistent in the young horse classes, this horse continues to strengthen, showing greater balance and maturity with each outing. He is spicy with attitude, but with great training this spice is used to expressions benefit.
Six-Year-Olds
In round one, the great win went to Danielle McMahon and Remi Furstin Hit by Furstenball on 79.40. Lizzie Wilson-Fellows and Hollands Bend Secrets Out (by Secret x HB Roccoco, by Royal Classic x Rubinero) delivered a well-deserved win in round two. An elegant chestnut gelding with excellent rideability, he has improved markedly over recent competitions, developing greater balance and uphill tendency.
Lizzie Wilson-Fellows and Hollands Bend Secrets Out. Image by Roger Fitzhardinge.
Seven-Year-Olds
The impressive bay imported stallion in Osaka, ridden by Jessica Dertell, won convincingly in both rounds with consistent scores of 75.825 and 75.329. The horse has developed a more expressive trot while maintaining a superb canter (8.5 awarded). The overall lightness and forehand lift suggest a promising future. The walk could be more definite but is loose and elastic.
COMPETITIVE CDI1* SMALL TOUR
The Small Tour competition drew attention not only for its quality, but also for lively discussion. QS Sierra (Stedinger X Florestan), ridden by Robbie McKinnon, was an undeniable crowd favourite and delivered a super expressive CDI1* Prix St Georges test to score 69.441%. Jayden Brown and Leopold finished close behind on 69.265%, with Lisa Martin and Vilaggio on 69.206%.
As has been a recurring theme this season, scoring variations between judges sparked conversation, adding an extra layer of intrigue to an already competitive division. For one combination, scores ranged from 65% to 71% with the placings ranging from fifth to first. Plenty to think about!
Robbie McKinnon and QS Sierra. Image by Roger Fitzhardinge.
SERIOUS COMPETITION IN NATIONAL CLASSES
The National-level Championship classes once again showcased the extraordinary depth of Australian dressage, with large classes across every level and quality combinations emerging right through the grades.
In the CDN Grand Prix, competition was tight. Susan Elekessy and Callum Park Geneva led the field on 61.717%, narrowly ahead of Matthew Lord on the young and relatively inexperienced Remi Vigneron on 61.283%. They had posted a 69% score in the Inter II the previous day, a level that currently appears his strongest yet. The stallion shows ample quality and developing expression for a horse that is very new to this level. He is developing better power and consistency with plenty still in the tank.
Matthew Lord and Remi Vigneron. Image Ashley Grant – The Blachat/Willinga Park.
In the CDN Small Tour, Matthew Lord and Carool Charmer impressed in the Inter I with 71.863%, ahead of Jayden Brown on Grets and Rebecca Rooke on the promising young BB Niccolo. The CDN Prix St Georges saw Jayden Brown and Grets take top honours on 68.941%, with Rebecca Rooke and BB Niccolo scoring 68.235%. BB Niccolo, by James 007 out of a well-performed mare, is certainly a horse to watch for the future. Stepping up to this level just before entries closed!
Novice competition was particularly strong. In the Novice 2.1, David McKinnon rode Macarthur Sequoia, for Jacqueline Wilson, to an impressive 73.846%. The Novice 2.2 saw Rachael Clarke and Tarcoola Secret Stash take the honours on 73.594%. The fields were deep, competitive and full of promising horses, many of whom look destined to progress confidently through the levels.
Rachael Clarke and Tarcoola Secret Stash. Image by Roger Fitzhardinge.
The Elementary division continued that theme of strength and quality. In the Elementary 3.2, Nicole Tough and Everdeen produced a commanding performance to score 75.75%. However, in Elementary 3.1, Harvey Besley turned the tables aboard the wonderful Friesian Birk Van De Vosjes, winning on 70.714%. Everdeen ultimately secured the Elementary Championship, underlining the mare’s consistency and presence.
Medium classes were enormous and filled with beautifully prepared horses. In the Medium 4.1 Division B, Sara Farraway riding the Fürstenball gelding, Remi Furstensong, scored 70.972% to win. This is a huge and active forward moving horses who is bold, enthusiastic, and so well directed by Sarah. This duo also won the Advanced 5.2 with 71.447%.
Medium 4.1 Division A went to the striking uphill stallion, Osaka P, on 71.945%. Osaka is elastic and fluent to say the least with a huge, expressive and uphill canter. Again, well presented by Jess Dertell and this duo also won the 4.2 on 73.649%. There were many horses worthy of mention in these classes, with accurate riding and polished presentations making for a genuine spectacle.
Kayla Simms and Arnage Total Bliss. Image Ashley Grant – The Blachat/Willinga Park.
At Advanced level, Sydney Evans and U Beauty Queen claimed the Advanced 5.1 with 70.946%. In the Advanced Freestyle, Kayla Simms and Arnage Total Bliss (bred by the Riley family, by Totilas from the imported mare Desiree), delivered an athletic and expressive winning performance to score 71.95%. The gelding’s elasticity and expression made him a standout in a competitive freestyle field.
Across every level, the national-level championship classes revealed not only strong competition but depth, promise and serious ambition within Australian dressage. From the emerging Novice combinations to the established Grand Prix contenders and rising youth talent, the future of the sport appears both competitive and bright.
Ten years on, Willinga Park’s Dressage by the Sea is more than a competition; it’s a meeting point for discussion, development and excellence. Image by Roger Fitzhardinge.
A DECADE OF PROGRESS
Ten years on, Willinga Park’s Dressage by the Sea stands as more than a competition. It is a benchmark — a meeting point for discussion, development and excellence. The 10th anniversary highlighted both how far the sport has come and the importance of continued dialogue to ensure its future remains strong and internationally competitive. EQ
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