News
NZ Hanoverian receives a Prime Ministerial pat
November 19, 2009
breeder Angela Smith reports from the opening ceremony for Clifton
Eventers new equestrian "Centre of Excellence" at Muriwai
 The Rt Honourable John Key and promising young Hanoverian eventer, Clifton Signature share a friendly moment after the opening ceremony for Clifton Eventers. © Angela Smith |
Frances Stead said the aim of the centre is to get New Zealand back to the glory days of the '80s and '90s.
"To do this, we need a strong eventing sport at home," she said.
"We need local heroes. We need role models to inspire the next generation of gold medallists. We cannot rely on a handful of riders 24,000 kilometres away in Europe."
Ms Stead and Mr Hall have already invested more than $2 million in the new, 20 hectare facility in Auckland's Muriwai area. It brings together a 42 x 70m all-weather arena, a 10-horse stable complex, a six-horse walker, 19 individual horse paddocks and excellent free-draining land for riding and fitness work.
 Clifton Signature shows his paces in the arena at Clifton Eventers new equestrian centre. © Angela Smith |
More than 250 people attended the official opening including Muriwai locals, equestrian affiliates and suppliers as well as parliamentary dignitaries.
Clifton Signature was one of the horses displayed in front of the audience at the open day. Originally named Stoneylea Elessar, the handsome chestnut gelding by german sire Espri out of the Happy Melody mare Madame La Rouge xx, was bred by Angela and John Smith of Stoneylea Farm. Ms Stead recently purchased Elessar from the Smiths and NZ showjumping rider, Oliver Edgecumbe, who was a co-owner. Along with Clifton Promise and others, Clifton Signature will be ridden by Clifton Eventers' rider, Jonathan Paget.
