The great Gadsby
TWEED Heads’ Matthew Gadsby has defended his Queensland Endurance Riders Association state title after a gruelling 12-hour journey in freezing Gympie conditions.
Gadsby and horse Maximus Ra sealed a secondstraight crown this month after completing the 160km event at Stirling’s Crossing Equestrian Complex in 11 hours and 48 minutes.
More than 150 riders took off in icy conditions at midnight, with Gadsby also taking out the Best Conditioned Heavyweight prize after finishing 48 minutes ahead of second-placed Brook Sample and horse Brookleigh Dylan.
Stirling’s Crossing Equestrian Complex owner Matthew Sample said despite the cold, the event was a success.
“This event presented an excellent opportunity for riders to experience the forestry tracks around Stirling’s Crossing Equestrian Complex, which will host the 2019 Tom Quilty Gold Cup, Australia’s most prestigious endurance ride,” Sample said.
“We were delighted that amongst those competing were several 11-year-olds who qualified to ride in next year’s Tom Quilty by completing their first 160km ride.
“Setting out at midnight with around 20 hours ahead of you is no small feat when you’re an adult, never mind when you are 11 years old and it’s freezing cold outside.”