The Werribee Park National Equestrian Centre played host to 10,000 +  Eventing fans over the Queens Birthday long weekend (5-8th June, 2015) with competitors travelling thousands of kilometres to be part of this prestigious event.

Left: Christine Bates and Adelaide Hill win the Saddleworld Melbourne International 3 Day Event CCI 3* class.

Seasoned competitors have come to expect the chilly Melbourne early winter conditions but were grateful that the rain held off to ensure good footing on cross country day.  The blustery wind gusts presented major challenges for competitors and spectators alike.

Saddleworld were delighted to be the main name sponsor for the event and the group was represented in the trade village by Saddle Up Saddleworld from Chirnside Park in Victoria, who supported the competitors in all three phases and stocked lots of saddlery and riding wear for general fans.  A spokesperson said, “Being a part of this event is a great way to involve all of our 44 stores which in turn gives this competition a wider audience of keen followers.  The competitors have travelled from as far away as WA and Queensland and this confirms the relevance of the involvement of an Australia wide saddlery network.

	The Saddle Up Saddleworld team prepare for a busy day The Broadcast crane, officiated by expert Sue Tuffnell The Broadcast pavillion co-ordinated the on site coverage and news was presented by Sarah Nevile-Lavington who enjoys international acclaim for her expert commentary.

The Event Director Susan McKay sincerely thanked the 200+ volunteers who generously gave their time to ensure the success of this competition.  Cross Country day requires a huge show of support as each obstacle requires a jump judge, safety officers, course marshals plus a support team of administrators, catering, and drivers of the mobile porta loos to provide comfort to the people who must stay at their post for a long and demanding day.

	Barry Roycroft shows the beautiful 2* trophy Riders take part in the 2* course walk Showjumping Course Designer David Shepherd

With two days of dressage, one spectacular day of cross country action and the showjumping final to decide the 4 x class winners, there is something for everyone.

 The Showjumping final was held on the Bruno Lawn outside the administration building and most agreed that there was something special about the outdoor atmosphere.

Saddleworld's Jane Foster had a very enjoyable few days officiating, and presented prizes to the class winners.

	Jane Foster represented Saddleworld

The winner of the CCIJ* was Victorian Molly Barry riding La Muso.  The CCI 1* top spot went to Robert Palm and Koko Pop – also from Victoria.  Emma King made the long trip from Western Australia well worthwhile with second and third place in the 2* class riding her chestnut Em and Russell and grey DVZ Chevalier.

	Robert Palm and Koko Pop Emma King made the trip across the Nullabor and placed 2nd and 3rd in the 1* event on her horses Em and Russell (chestnut) and DVZ Chevalier (grey)

In the CCI 2* class, victory went to Tim Boland from NSW riding the handsome black, Napoleon.

	Napoleon and Tim Boland show their style at the water jump Napoleon is congratulated by Saddleworld's Jane Foster and the Judges.

Winning the Prydes EasiFeeds Melbourne 3 DE 3* class is a goal for most participating enthusiasts and in 2015, a popular and hard working rider added “Melbourne” to her CV.  Christine Bates has previously made the trip south from her NSW home with her partner of 10 years Adelaide Hill.  The 2015 occasion saw it all come together with near perfect performance that saw the chestnut gelding finish on a dressage score of 48.60.
 
Christine shared her proud moment with son William and explained the trials and tribulations of her 10 years with Adelaide Hill, a horse who was difficult at the start and seriously challenged her talent and patience.  Things have come together for the pair who have already claimed the Sydney International crown and now look to take on the best at the Australian International 3 DE event in Adelaide later this year.

	Jane Foster from Saddleworld, Peter Pryde and Sammi Kilgour from Prydes EasiFeeds Congratulate Christine Bates on her 3* win.

As Melbourne said goodbye to competitors, spectators, traders and friends, the Organising Committee thanked Saddleworld and everyone who was involved in the 2015 success and invited them to make a date for 2016.

CCIJ* Top 12

CCI1* Top 12

CCI2* Top 12

CCI3* Top 12

Full results for all classes can be found at: http://bspscoring.com/M3DE/M3DE.html