EVENTING: Olympic equestrian competitor Heath Ryan was among the stars at Warwick Horse Trials at the weekend.

The 58-year-old New South Wales rider came second in the one star class but said he was thrilled to compete in Warwick again after seven years.

“I was pretty pleased with how I went and it’s a beautiful course and great dressage facility and showjumping,” Ryan said.

“Because I also coach with an interest in seeing riders progress to the Olympics it was definitely worthwhile coming along.

“The courses are challenging without being so difficult they become unsafe for the horses and riders, and that’s important to be able to build confidence without frightening the horse or the rider

“The average age of an Olympic competing horse is 16 years so taking care of the horse and ensuring that longevity is critical for us.

“We’ve had beautiful weather and the hospitality we’ve been shown coming at such short notice has been incredible.”

Ryan said Warwick Horse Trials was a shining example of the rapidly improving equestrian facilities in Queensland.

“New South Wales riders used to go to Queensland often and it’s had a lull, but coming up here now, this facility is right up to scratch,” he said.

“We were thrilled with the high standard of everything and would certainly think things are changing to bring back major competition to Queensland.”

Warwick Horse Trials Club event organiser Kim Peard said she was thrilled to welcome so many riders at such short notice.

“We’ve welcomed a lot of riders for a very successful weekend and four of the Scots PGC riders have done especially well to nominate for states at the end of month.”