THE sixth and final competition round of the Golden Spurs Dressage Series was held last weekend at Smythesdale’s Woady Yaloak Equestrian Centre.

The Ballarat Adult Riding Club hosted 90 horses and riders on Sunday, 1 May from across the city, the Golden Plains Shire, Geelong and Surf Coast region, and broader western Victoria.

“The competitors ride two dressage tests. We start at level five with a walk, trot, and canter, and our advanced riders are tested on more complex fancy footwork,” BARC president Nadine Gass said.

“The quality of the competition has been amazing. The turnout of the horses and riders is a real credit to them.

“They’re all very spiffy and beautiful, taking pride in their appearance, both horse and rider.”

BARC competitor Zara Micich said the competition had a very warm and friendly atmosphere.

“Everyone supports everyone no matter what club or level you’re at. The whole series has been full of good-spirited people,” she said.

Ms Gass agreed that there was a feeling of strong camaraderie, with some attendees travelling from as far as Melbourne to support horses and riders, and enjoy the Woady Yaloak centre.

“Our four home user groups, the Ballarat and Smythesdale adult riders, and Rokewood and Smythesdale pony clubs, are so blessed with our grounds, and to have such great support from the Golden Plains Shire,” she said.

“Our facilities are above what a lot of clubs have, so we’re very lucky. Many people also support us and our events because they know they have fantastic facilities to use when they get here.”

Smythesdale, Colac, Inverleigh, Freshwater Creek, and Westcoast adult riding clubs also hosted meets throughout the Golden Spurs Dressage Series.