Equestrian: NZ win inaugural tri-nations

New Zealand riders won the inaugural Tri Nations showjumping title in Johannesburg today (NZ time).

Led by Olympian Maurice Beatson (Dannevirke), who was ably backed by Lisa Coupe (Kumeu), Robert Steele (Hawera) and Simon Wilson (Waipukurau), the team took the crown by just a point ahead of hosts South Africa.

But it took a late charge by the Australians and a forgettable round by the South Africans which saw New Zealand claim victory.

Heading into the final round, they were even with South Africa and needed the win to take the series, which started in New Zealand at the Kelt Capital Horse of the Year Show in Hastings in March.

This morning Australia finished with nine faults, New Zealand 12 and South Africa 40.

New Zealand finished the competition with 20 points, South Africa 19 and Australia 11.

"South Africa didn't do so well and that gave us an opening," New Zealand team captain Helen Ensor said.

"It was great to see the Australians doing well as they haven't been going too well at all."

In the final round, jumped over two courses, Beatson rode a double clear, Steele picked up eight faults, Coupe four and Wilson eight.

Everyone rode borrowed horses.

Ensor said the New Zealanders were a tight team and it was that approach that had given them the edge.

"We are a total team of riders and that is what it takes when you don't have your own horses."

"The Tri Nations event is absolutely amazing."

"It is a wonderful competition and something we all want to see as a permanent fixture. There is always good competition between Australia and New Zealand and adding South Africa brings in a whole new dimension."

There will not be an Australian leg of the Tri Nations this year, but Ensor said all countries were committed to the event next year.

- NZPA