Saddleworld Ballarat sponsored rider Sue Nevett and her horse C C Laurenz
recently made the 2000 kilometer round trip to the Sydney CDI dressage competition to be part of this highlight event on the Australian dressage calendar.

Travelling up the Hume with a pre-planned overnight stop at The Tarcutta Motor Inn, Sue said, “I wanted to make sure that my to 17 year old gelding did not have to stand on a float for too long in one day and that I gave him the best chance to arrive at SIEC, relaxed and refreshed.  Sue (who admits to being a grandmother of 4) added, “The break was a good way to do the trip - for horses AND people - and after arriving at the spectacular 2000 Olympic venue, we settled in very well!”

Riding in the atmospheric Olympic outdoor stadium and in front of 5 International Dressage Judges, Sue and “Loz” finished a creditable 4th in the Grand Prix National (CDN) class - a very pleasing result for a combination just starting on their Grand Prix journey together.

Sue said, “Even though we were keen to get home, we stayed on for an extra day to take advantage of the Judges’/Riders’ Clinic conducted by visiting US Judge, Gary Rockwell.  He was excellent, I do not understand why more riders do not avail themselves of such opportunities to learn, and better understand what the judges are looking for!”

Clifton Court Laurenz is a special favourite for Sue as she bred him and the horse has spent his entire life at her Ballarat home.  He is by Warwick Cousins’ imported Oldenberg stallion Lucano and out of a small Thoroughbred mare. 

From an early age, Laurenz showed a good deal of “attitude” but was very amenable and even when he was first broken in, he gave Sue some lovely rides and a confidence that he had what it takes to train on to Grand Prix.   Sue says, “good job I am tall, as Loz just grew and grew and he now stands an imposing 17.3 hands tall.”

“Lorenz has impressed spectators and judges alike with his gleaming black coat and imposing stature. I have often received comments like brave, confident and nicely forward, written on his dressage sheets, and as a rider I have appreciated that I always had a few more forward gears - which I am sure he inherited from his Thoroughbred mum!  His energy and impulsion have been the specialty qualities that have given our performances expression and activity – the “holy grail” of modern dressage!”

“Lorenz has always tried to please and his big heart has made him a very successful horse - right through the grades.  He has won many Championships and Horse of the Year awards from dressage clubs in Victoria.”

“I would like to thank my coaches Gitte Donvig and Mary Hanna, along with Manolo and Jose Mendez - no rider can do it alone, and these special coaches and mentor’s have helped us on the long road to the top!”

Sue said in conclusion. “I would also like to thank Saddleworld Ballarat who have supported me for many years.  I have had so much expert advice and help from Natalie, Kylie and Carrin.  The Saddleworld quality and friendly assistance have been absolutely invaluable - thankyou so much Saddleword Ballarat, Loz and I are proud to be part of your team!”

Saddleworld Ballarat - NEW LOCATION!! 909 Howitt Street WENDOUREE VIC 3355 PH: 03 5334 4255 Email: ballaratsaddleworld@bigpond.com