We’re pleased to announce the following updates for the 2025 NZPCA Eventing Championships, which have been ratified to enhance fairness and flexibility in scoring, qualifications, and participation.

1. Dressage Teams Trophy Scoring Update
To ensure fair competition across divisions, we’ve updated the scoring system for the Dressage Teams Trophy. The team score will now be calculated using the top four scores: one from each division and the next best score from any division. This amendment ensures that all divisions contribute to the final team score and promotes balanced representation.

2. Modified Team Scoring for Incomplete Teams
In response to challenges with incomplete teams, we have introduced flexibility in team scoring. Teams will still aim to submit one score from each of the three divisions plus an additional score. However, if not enough teams can post full scores, they may use the best four scores from any two divisions or two scores from each of two divisions. Traditional full team scoring will still be prioritized in placements. This change helps address situations where teams have missing divisions, allowing more teams to participate competitively.

3. Qualification Requirements for A1 Combinations
A1 combinations at the NZPCA Eventing Championships must now meet one of the following qualification standards to ensure preparedness and safety:
- 2 NQSs at 110 (or above) within the past 12 months.
- 3 NQSs at 110 (or above) within the past 24 months.
- 1 NQS at 110 (or above) and 2 NQSs at 105 within the past 12 months.
These qualification standards are designed to maintain high competition standards while ensuring riders meet experience requirements.

4. Allowing Dual Horse Participation for Underrepresented Areas
To support increased participation, riders from areas unable to field full teams may now compete with two horses in the same team. The second horse may only join the Area team if it does not prevent any other eligible rider from participating. This change aims to boost team numbers in areas with lower rider representation, ensuring more teams can compete fully while maintaining fairness for all riders.

5. Introduction of an 80cm Individual Class
An 80cm championship class for riders aged 14 years and under as of 1st August has been added to the NZPCA Eventing Championships. This new class provides a valuable stepping stone to the 95cm level, aiming to increase participation among younger riders and prepare them for future competitions.

We are looking forward to a fantastic 2025 Eventing Championship season and are excited to see these updates enhance the experience for riders, teams, and supporters. Safe riding and good luck to all competitors!
 

Photo: Waitemata Rodney Area, who emerged triumphant, clinching the coveted Eventing Teams Trophy 2024

Credit to Shots Photography

Article added: Friday 08 November 2024