Olympic equestrian superstar Blyth Tait paid a flying visit to the Rangiora A&P Showgrounds on Thursday to meet with Hinterland Springston Trophy competitors.
The historic three-day equestrian event, which is being hosted by the North Canterbury Pony Club, starts on Friday and consists of three disciplines - dressage today, cross-country on Saturday, and show jumping on Sunday.
A total of 31 teams from throughout the South Island are competing.
Blyth, who is based in Auckland and retired from international riding in March 2020, arrived in Rangiora yesterday morning and during the gathering of competitors, supporters and guests for the opening of the event, he complimented the organisers on their work preparing the grounds for the cross-country event.
"It felt like I was arriving at Badminton (horse trials in England)," he said.
"This is a course I would definitely love to ride."
But he also stressed that they must walk the course themselves and "come up with a plan" to chart their own course, based on the ability and characteristics of their horses.
Preparation was key for an event like this, he said.
"If you fail to prepare, you prepare to fail."
He also stressed the importance of teamwork and supporting each other in the competition.
"Show it total respect, the same respect as the first jump."
Later in the day, Blyth also walked the cross-country course with the event’s junior and intermediate riders.
He said it was his pleasure to visit the showgrounds and spend time with the young riders.
"They are going to be the future Olympians, with a bit of luck."
