Andrew Driffield (NSW), Sarah Sherwood (Qld), Catherine Viney (SA), Luke Purtill (WA), Chloe Karsten (NSW), Sui Watts (NSW), Bel Dabic (WA) and Phoebe Roche (VIC) have all been selected for the 2025 Virtus World Equestrian Dressage Championships following outstanding results at recent Virtus online video competitions as well as local events.
Round one of the 2025 Virtus Equestrian video competition also saw Australians with several wins and placings.
“We are delighted to see such a large team of quality riders selected to represent Australia, the growth in number and quality of riders has been incredible,” said Robyn Smith, Chief Executive Officer of Sport Inclusion Australia via Equestrian Australia.
All eight riders attended the Virtus European Championships at the same location last year where the Australian team claimed the silver medal. Individually, Sui Watts (II-2) secured a gold and silver medal, Bel Dabic (II-3) took home two silver medals, Sarah Sherwood (II-1) claimed a silver and a bronze medal, and Phoebe Roche (II-3) was awarded two bronze medals. Like the European Championships, Australian riders will again be on borrowed horses at the upcoming World Championships.
Since winning gold at the 2023 Virtus Global Games in France, Australia has been at the forefront of the Virtus Equestrian movement – offering riders greater opportunities to compete. Consequently, competitor numbers are steadily on the rise.
Australian Team – 2025 Virtus World Equestrian Dressage Championships:
II-1:
Andrew Driffield (NSW)
Sarah Sherwood (Qld)
Catherine Viney (SA)
Luke Purtill (WA)
II-2:
Chloe Karsten (NSW)
Sui Watts (NSW)
II-3:
Bel Dabic (WA)
Phoebe Roche (VIC)
Staff:
Head Coach: Mary Longden
Manager: Jessie Downs
Asst Manager: Nicole King
Stable Manager: Kathy Angel
