For the last day of The Saddlefitter Brisbane CDI at the Queensland State Equestrian Centre on Sunday, it was slightly humid and very warm with blue skies. Just what the visitors from the southern states wanted before returning to the cooler weather!
Jayden Brown and Quincy impress in the CDI3* Grand Prix Special
The biggest class of the day was no doubt the CDI3* Grand Prix Special, and while the field was small with only three starters, it was a class of real quality and interest.
Victory went to Jayden Brown and WillingaPark Quincy B with a score of 72.404%, highlighted by an excellent 74.787% from the centreline judge. An untimely mistake in the two-tempi changes spoiled what could have been an even higher score, but aside from that, the test was fluent, harmonious, and inspiring. Interesting to see the two-tempis — that without the mistake could easily get 8.5 — slipped to scores of 5, 5.5, 6, 6, and a 4. That’s dressage — it’s tough!
The extended canter was a real highlight, scoring some 8.5 marks, as were the one-tempi changes for some 8.5s as well. They are so straight and uphill to say the least, and all the same size from the beginning to the end. The piaffe and passage could still show a little more elevation in the forehand and stay more upright, but the transitions throughout the test (of which there are many) were clear and effortless.
This score strengthens Jayden and Quincy’s campaign towards selection for the 2026 FEI World Championships in Aachen (marks in the Grand Prix Special are considered by selectors). It is a delight to see the effortless aids and the ability Jayden has to always be able to adjust Quincy at the blink of an eye to help with the balance — and that in turn enables confidence and bigger, more uphill paces. It was an inspiring demonstration of harmony, togetherness and majesty.
John Thompson and MSJ Gatsby
In second place for New Zealand in the CDI3* Grand Prix Special was John Thompson with MSJ Gatsby, finishing on 64.957%. Unfortunately, an error of course led to a costly 2% deduction, masking what was otherwise a very promising test. The passage and piaffe are still developing strength and expression, but the changes were well-executed despite a minor interruption in the one-tempis; however, the ones on the centreline were great, and the extended trot showed real expression and groundcover. Gatsby is a young horse at this demanding level, and his confidence and harmony with John were clear. This combination is steadily building in strength and confidence, and Gatsby is never pushed for more than he is able. He is a really attentive horse and so well ridden mentally as well as physically. They are surely looking for a place representing New Zealand at Aachen.
Brianna Tillitzki and BZ Rafael
Third place went to Brianna Tillitzki and BZ Rafael, who also suffered a 2% deduction for an error of course — cantering out of passage in a place (at E) required in the Grand Prix, but not in the Special where it’s at X; so easy to do! Despite the costly slip, Rafael is a horse developing in both strength and confidence, improving with each test across the week at Caboolture.
With Australian riders rarely getting the chance to ride the Grand Prix Special, the occasional error of course is no surprise. Even so, the class was a delight to watch: horses moving with ease, balance, and harmony, and riders producing fluent, tension-free transitions.
The Big Tour Champion of the event was ultimately Brianna Tillitzki with BZ Rafael, the highest-placed overall across the Grand Prix, Grand Prix Freestyle, and Grand Prix Special.
CDI Junior Freestyle
The CDI-J Freestyle was won in fine style by Tia McKenzie on Phenomenon, scoring 70.920%. Despite a few mistakes that cost marks, the overall impression was one of fluency, confidence, and great partnership. Four judges placed them first, with one awarding second place, confirming their dominance in this strong class. This brown gelding has a super expressive trot, and this lends to some great artistic work in their Freestyle. A very well framed horse and some great marks well over 7 for some of the artistic elements. A great way to finish, and this combination were named CDI—J Champions.
In second place, only narrowly behind, was Zali Mills on Royal Diamond Jubilee with 69.185%. Zali rode with polish and confidence, presenting her horse with great harmony. A product of the Dertell stable, this pair impressed with their poise and presence in the arena, and they are certainly ones to watch as they continue to develop at this level.
Third place went to Isabella Anderson and Fortune Cookie on 68.245%, adding further depth to what is proving to be one of the strongest Junior groups of riders Australia has seen.
Camaraderie beyond competition
What stood out beyond the results at the Brisbane CDI was the sense of camaraderie. While competition between these riders is fierce inside the ring, the companionship and support they share outside it, is exceptional. It is a reminder of what junior sport should be about: top riding, top horsemanship, and great sportsmanship.
CDI-U25 Grand Prix Freestyle wraps up top event for Jess Dertell
If there is one rider that shone above all, not only in outstanding riding but also as a mentor and all-round friend to everyone, it was Jess Dertell.
The CDI-U25 Grand Prix Freestyle was Jess’ last test of the event, and it was another strong score of 70.665% with stallion Kilimanjaro to finish ahead of Danielle McMahon and Remi Laurie’s Joy on 67.820% — a combination that has also impressed with a very successful few days of competition.
Jessica’s results at the CDI:
Osaka P won all of his tests with scores into the 70% range and in strong classes full of talented riders and horses. Jess and Osaka were the winners of the Elementary 3.2 and 3.3 for Open Elementary Champion, and winners of the Medium 4.2 and 4.3 for Open Medium Champion. Jess was also the Young Rider Champion at both levels.
Partnered with Roseglen Crown Royale, Jess was third in the Pony Medium 4.2 and 4.3, third in the Pony Elementary 3.2 and fourth in the 3.3. She was also the Pony Medium and Elementary Young Rider Champion.
Riding Kilimanjaro in the CDI-U25 classes, Jess also won the Inter II, Grand Prix and Freestyle to be named the CDI-U25 Big Tour Champion.
Jess’ results speak for themselves, but above being so highly successful Jess has so much generous time to encourage all other riders. She is never pretentious nor high and mighty about her success, but is in fact humble and shy about it. She manages to ingratiate all around her to be a part of her success and win lose or draw, Jess is always genuinely happy with her life and her horses. Everyone stops for a chat with the Dertell’s camp at the stables and is welcomed in the most genuine and generous manner. This is what makes dressage united. Jess showed amazing skill and riding at this competition but over and above this, her openness in a simplistic way and always to be around when anyone is in need, is incredible. Aussie dressage is in a better place for Jess Dertell and it is so natural for her to be so positive, knowledgeable, compassionate, encouraging, inspiring, and down to earth – just a few ways of describing her inner warmth. What a competitor and what a wonderful ambassador for the sport.
CDI Pony Freestyle
The first class in the indoor on Sunday was the CDI Pony Freestyle and again it was another CDI-P win to Reitland’s Obama, ridden by Abby Weel. The gelding presented in very good form with quite a complicated test that included 10-metre circles in counter canter, simple changes, and the lateral work in trot starting from trot half circle to a change of bending to make the half pass the opposite way. It was almost mistake-free, except Obama took exception to a couple of the markers and pot plants, keeping Abby on her toes. At 14 years old, you would think that he would be a very seasoned campaigner — but quirky he is! Abby did a great job getting him back on track and made the most of the marks she had available with great music and choreography. A score of 68.865%.
In second place just behind on 67.4% was Isabella Anderson on Boronia Applause, a lovely black pony producing some really nice work — just perhaps lacking a little expression in the extended paces. In third place was Clare Downs Arian Lledrith for Matia Hopwood on 66.890%. They are all very different types of ponies, but all very well ridden with the riders showing a great understanding of the movements and their preparations and positioning required at this level — very encouraging for our sport.
CDI Young Rider Freestyle
The CDI-Y Freestyle saw another win to Ella Jacobs and Kalahari, with a very solid score of 70.335%.
Advanced Freestyle
The Advanced Freestyle concluded Sunday’s competition and gave riders the rare chance to choregraph a Freestyle test at this level. Kimberley Webb and Versace I scored 66.815% to claim the win.
Closing of The Saddlefitter Brisbane CDI and Queensland State Dressage Championships
As The Saddlefitter CDI and QLD State Dressage Championships came to a close on Sunday afternoon, the trucks rolled out and riders and horses made their way home. Some travelled with well-earned smiles after strong performances, while others left reflecting on what needs improvement before the next outing.
Queensland once again put on a great CDI. The surfaces were as good as we’ve ever seen at this venue: well prepared with secure footing that allowed combinations to perform confidently. The proof of this was in the results: excellent percentages and tests that flowed with ease, something that simply isn’t possible without a reliable surface.
The event itself ran smoothly, with uncomplicated organisation and a few delightful touches. One of the highlights was the entertainment, particularly the hobby horse competition, which brought lighthearted fun and showcased Queensland’s creativity on Saturday night.
While the quality was high, class numbers were lower than expected. The question remains — why?
Expense: For many riders, the cost of competition remains difficult, especially when prize money doesn’t always reflect the effort and achievement required.
Clustering of events: With so many competitions squeezed into a short timeframe, riders are forced to choose where to compete. The welfare of horses, along with financial realities, means that not every event can attract large numbers.
Judging concerns
One of the ongoing talking points was the judging. Riders continue to struggle with wide variations in scores between judges. Encouragingly, the spread seems to be narrowing, but the tendency toward “middle of the road” marking remains an issue.
Constructive comments and more defined marking are essential. Riders thrive on clear guidance, and “safe” scoring risks making the sport feel dour and discouraging rather than motivating.
Lack of confidence: Judges appear hesitant to reward with big marks or penalise with very low ones.
Impact on riders: This leaves riders without clear feedback on what is excellent and what needs real work. Without well-defined highs and lows, it is difficult to plan improvements.
International influence: At this event, some international judges gave particularly low marks, at odds with the broader panel. For riders, this inconsistency can be disheartening and bewildering — and they seem never to have the chance to ask why.
Looking ahead
It’s onwards and upwards now, with the Australian Dressage Championships next on the calendar. They will be held at the Sydney International Equestrian Centre in Horsley Park, just an hour west of the Sydney CBD. Remarkably, it’s been 25 years since the Olympics were staged at this world-class venue — a reminder of the legacy that continues to inspire today’s riders.
Queensland has once again proven that, just as they excel in NRL, they can also host an outstanding dressage competition. A win-win situation for all who attended!
