The highly anticipated 4CYTETM Dressage by the Sea CDI 2025 returns for its ninth year, offering four days of elite equestrian competition from February 20th to 23rd, 2025, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Willinga Park. This year’s event is set to be the most thrilling yet, featuring a stellar lineup of both international and Australian riders.
Among the highlights is Willinga Park’s own Jayden Brown, riding Willinga Park Quincy B, fresh from representing Australia at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Brown, who moved to Great Britain in 2022 to train and compete with a team of horses, returns to Willinga Park for his first competition since relocating overseas. At the Paris Olympics, Brown and Quincy B kicked off the Australian dressage campaign with a score of 68.991% and were the first pair down the centreline in the team medal decider. Their return to home soil is set to be one of the standout moments of the event. “Coming back to Willinga Park feels like returning home,” said Jayden Brown. “The opportunity to compete here again, especially after my time training overseas and representing Australia in Paris, is incredibly special. I can’t wait to be back in front of the Australian crowd.”
Mary Hanna to compete ahead of World Cup Final
We will also see the legendary Mary Hanna, fresh from her victory at the Pacific League Final. This will be her final ride in Australia at Willinga Park before she heads to the FEI Dressage World Cup Final in Basel, Switzerland, from 2-6 April 2025, making it a must-see performance for all dressage enthusiasts.
Widely regarded as one of the world’s most spectacular equestrian venues, Willinga Park – continues to raise the bar for excellence in dressage. The buzz around this year’s competition is unparalleled, with 33 novice horses entered and 25 on the reserve list, a reflection of the high demand across all classes, including the advanced levels.
“Willinga Park is a truly unique venue,” said Nadine Young, Sales and Marketing Manager at Willinga Park. “Each year, this event continues to grow, drawing top-tier competitors and exceptional horses across all classes. The dedicated team of sponsors, organisers and volunteers is what makes 4CYTETM Dressage by the Sea CDI the most competitive event of the season.”
The program will feature a comprehensive slate of competitions, from the prestigious CDI 3* and CDI 1* events to categories for young riders, including CDI Children, CDI-Junior, and CDI Young Rider. The CDI Under 25 competition will showcase emerging talent, while Official Novice to National Grand Prix competitions and freestyle to music events will offer displays of skill and creativity.
Introduction of international Pony classes
For the first time, 4CYTETM Dressage by the Sea CDI 2025 will introduce a series of international pony competitions, known as CDIP classes. These include the Team Test, Individual Test, and Freestyle events, designed specifically for young riders under the age of 16 competing on ponies. These classes offer a fantastic opportunity for the next generation of riders to showcase their skills on an international stage, fostering young talent and encouraging participation in the sport from an early age.
Visitors can explore Willinga Park’s stunning gardens and sculptures, spanning over 10 hectares and featuring native Australian flora alongside more than 30 large-scale sculptures by renowned artists from Australia, New Zealand, China, and Japan. Works by Phil Price, Jeff Thompson, and Virginia King create a captivating atmosphere that invites exploration.
Don’t miss the action
The Bunker Café will provide a relaxing retreat for spectators, open Thursday to Sunday from 7:00am to 3:00pm, and catered by local award-winning caterers Rabbit&Co. A variety of food trucks will also be on site, offering diverse culinary options throughout the event. Visitors can also unwind at the Stables Bar, open Thursday, and Friday from 3:00pm to 8:00pm, Saturday from 2:00pm to 9:00pm, and Sunday from 3:00pm to 6:00pm.
The Trade Village will offer a variety of equestrian products, from supplements and saddlery to apparel, jewellery, and horse transport manufacturers. All trade exhibitors will be open over all four days, offering exclusive specials and promotions for attendees and competitors alike.
On Saturday, February 22nd, after the presentations from 5:40pm, South Coast local and popular music artist Chris McGrath will perform live to entertain competitors and spectators after a big day of competition and the Saturday presentation ceremony.
Can’t make it to Willinga Park? 4CYTETM Dressage by the Sea CDI 2025 will be livestreamed on Willinga Park TV, allowing dressage enthusiasts worldwide to follow every stride and movement from the comfort of home. With audiences tuning in from New Zealand, American Samoa, United States, Germany, United Kingdom, Hong Kong, and the Netherlands, the event continues to grow in international recognition and appeal.
Young added, “4CYTETM Dressage by the Sea CDI continues to raise the bar each year. From the calibre of riders to the stunning setting at Willinga Park, it’s an unmissable event for competitors and spectators alike.”
For more information, tickets and updates, visit www.willingapark.com.au
Source: Willinga Park press release
