Australian Olympian crowned Wits End CIC*** Champion

Rosemont, Ontario – Phillip Dutton a three time Olympic competitor and a member of Australia’s Gold Medal Three-Day Eventing Team at the 1996 Athens Olympic Games took first place at the third annual Horse Trails, in front of several hundred fans. Conquering the CIC*** course and the three disciplines he rode to the top finish aboard ‘Tru Luck’. First place was awarded the winning Trophy and prize money. The CIC*** competitive event was held over three days on September 29, 30 & October 01, 2006.

Twenty-two International and Canadian competitors at the CIC*** level, and 6 Advanced riders, participated among the beautiful rolling hills just outside of Rosemont, north of Toronto. This is the only CIC *** Three Day Event in Canada and attracted riders of the highest calibre. Total prize money of $10,000 extended the entries to the international field. Top Canadian Penny Rowland, onboard ‘Roundabout’ finished in fifth place amongst a strong field of international competition.

Past and present Canadian Equestrian Team Members, who have represented Canada on the world stage, donated the total purse. These talented riders rallied to the cause, and competitors from the 1950s right up to the current team members contributed to provide the purse, including the current ‘Captain Canada’, Ian Millar.

Wits End owners Jo Young and Bill McKeen strongly believe, “if we are to produce International Level riders and horses, we must provide world-class competitions.” In order to meet these goals, Jo and Bill have developed their farm to provide facilities necessary for this international world-class event.

In 2004, a successful inaugural competition was held for Canadian riders, known as the Wits End Advanced Horse Trials. In 2005, the field was opened to International entries. In 2006 the Event was conducted under the auspices of the FEI, Fédération Equestre Internationale, making it a full International Level Horse Trials C.I.C.*** event, with the goal of hosting a World Cup Qualifier competition in the future.

Competitors were impressed with conditions and challenges the course offered. Phil Dutton thanked the Wits End sponsors and he ‘thoroughly enjoyed himself during the three days” appreciating the “picturesque and challenging course”, designed by US Olympian David O’Connor.