Grassroots: Equestrian Olympic qualifier

Chief showjumping selector Richard Sunderland is confident New Zealand can win a team medal at next year's Olympic Games in Athens.

But first Daniel Meach, Peter Breakwell, Guy Thomas and Grant Wilson must secure New Zealand Olympic qualification in an event at Aachen, Germany, from June 12 to 14.

The four were named yesterday as New Zealand's representatives who will seek to qualify for an Olympic teams berth for the first time since 1988.

Three of the team have a parent or grandparent who has ridden for New Zealand - Meach's grandfather Bill, Thomas' father Butch and Breakwell's mother Shirley Chambers.

"These guys are winning grand prix around the world," said Sunderland. "I am confident we can win the qualifying round and, barring disasters, have the wherewithal to get a team medal at the Olympics."

Sunderland expects the main competition to come from Australia, Japan and Saudi Arabia.

The team have to finish in the top three to qualify, and Aachen is their only chance to do so.