Equitana 2024 Showcases Top Equestrian Talent and Cutting-Edge Nutrition

Melbourne Showgrounds hosted Equitana 2024 from November 14-17, drawing horse enthusiasts and equestrian professionals to celebrate all aspects of the industry. Kentucky Equine Research played a significant role in the event, offering expert-led presentations and showcasing its nutritional products at its stand.

Expert Talks on Horse Nutrition

Kentucky Equine Research’s Peter Huntington and David Nash shared their expertise through engaging presentations. Huntington teamed up with Olympian Amanda Ross and Godolphin Lifetime Care flag bearer Hartnell to discuss the critical topic of “Off the Track Feeding and Nutrition” for Racing Victoria. The session delved into transitioning retired racehorses to new careers, focusing on addressing common issues such as gastrointestinal health, hoof care, and joint protection.

“The education I have received from Kentucky Equine Research over the years has been priceless to me and my clients,” said Amanda Ross.

Meanwhile, Nash’s sessions, “What Do Our Horses Eat?” and “Where Are Our Nutrients Absorbed?”, answered frequently asked questions from Kentucky Equine Research’s consultation line. He emphasised the importance of understanding the fundamentals of equine diets, starting with pasture and water testing.

“People can get wrapped up in the finer details of a horse’s diet, but forget to step back and look at the basics first,” Nash noted.

Western Performance and Reining Masters

Lana Kelderman and Whizznt Me delivered a standout performance, placing second in the Open class of the Reining Masters. Kelderman, a rising star in western performance, competes at high levels across various disciplines.

Break O Day Quarter Horses also shone, with MPH La Revolution and Sarah Mammone crowned Champion Non-Pro and Adelaide Osler taking Youth Champion on Dunit with Style. Reserve Youth Champion honors went to Tomi Rose Elliott on Heza Lil Einstein.

“Super proud of the show team … and thankful to give them the best care with KER,” said Kate Elliot.

Exceptional Performances in Dressage 

The FEI Dressage World Cup Grand Prix featured stellar performances, including Caroline Wagner riding Ibicus to a fifth-place finish and Mary Nitschke placing 11th on Astronomical. Wagner’s performance secured her a spot in the Freestyle, where she again placed fifth.

“I am so pleased with how Ibicus went. He is really finding his feet at this level and getting stronger,” said Wagner, who relies on Kentucky Equine Research products such as Synovate HA, B-Quiet, Restore, and Nano-E to support her horses’ performance.

Off Track Express Eventing and Show Jumping

The Off Track Express Eventing competition blended showjumping and cross-country elements, culminating in a jump-off for clear rounds. Chris Height of Spring Creek Equine showcased Rosatin and Lucky Contender, crediting their success to Kentucky Equine Research products like Equi-Jewel, Neigh-Lox, and Triacton.

In show jumping, Brook Dobbin and Devos GP claimed victory in the 1.30m event and placed second in the 1.40m. Amanda Madigan and Diamond B Beyoncé impressed in the Mini Prix. Dobbin praised Kentucky Equine Research’s Drink-Up, Bio-Bloom, and Glucos-A-Flex for keeping his horses hydrated and competition-ready.

“Drink-Up is great while traveling to shows and during competition. It really encourages our horses to drink,” Dobbin explained.

A Celebration of Equine Excellence 

Equitana 2024 highlighted the synergy between expert nutrition and world-class equestrian performance. Through Kentucky Equine Research’s support and innovative products, riders and their horses are equipped to achieve success across disciplines, making this year’s event a remarkable celebration of equine excellence.