Equestrian

Dunedin eventer Christen Hayde travelled to the heartland of New Zealand equestrianism, challenged the internationals and came home with two major titles.

Katie McVean and Maurice Beatson are hoping to build on their healthy lead in the New Zealand World Cup showjumping series at the Christmas Classic in Taupo this weekend.

Donna Smith and Just Chocolate hold a narrow lead over Jonathan Paget and Clifton Airtight after today's dressage at the Puhinui three-day event.

Riders will get the opportunity to learn from one of the best when eventing champion Clarke Johnstone holds a clinic near Dunedin next Thursday and Friday.

Olympic hopeful Clarke Johnstone has not been horsing around - but getting around on horses is something the former Dunedin rider is very good at.

New Zealand eventers scooped the pool at the Festival of British Eventing at Gatcombe Park in England overnight.

The 2012 London Olympics equestrian eventing venue at Greenwich has got the thumbs-up from New Zealand riders.

New Zealand showjumper Katie McVean has returned home with her 2012 Olympic hopes all but gone after hopes of trialling a Dutch horse came to nothing.

New Zealand's Andrew Nicholson has finished 10th and 14th at the Luhmühlen four-star three-day event in Germany, with fellow Kiwi Caroline Powell just behind in 15th.

London Olympic eventing hopeful Clarke Johnstone heads to Britain tomorrow a serious contender to make the New Zealand team next year.