The opening dressage phase of the Eventing Championships at Galway Downs showcased promising talent on the West Coast, with veteran rider Tamie Smith leading the CCI4-L division aboard Lillet 3. Smith praised the harmonious and expressive quality of their test, reflecting a year-long successful partnership. Molly Duda, Smith’s student and Lillet 3’s owner, also excelled by topping the CCI3-L dressage with Jutopia, highlighting the strong performances of both seasoned professionals and emerging riders across multiple divisions. The competition featured challenging new cross-country courses designed to test endurance and precision, with events continuing through early November.

Other notable performances included Asia Vedder leading the CCI2-L on Litmanen Z with a score of 25.3, and Megan Sykes catching for an injured client to score 28.2 on HSH Tangerine in the CCI1-L. The event emphasized rider-horse harmony, consistency, and the development of confidence, with many competitors expressing excitement about the upcoming cross-country phases. The Championships at Galway Downs continue to highlight the depth of talent and bright future of eventing on the West Coast.