The Trans-Tasman Dressage Challenge Returns

The Trans-Tasman Challenge has been absent from the Australian and New Zealand dressage calendar for several years — but in 2026, it’s back.

The Sydney CDI is dusting off the trophy and proudly reintroducing this exciting international team competition.

Working alongside High Performance leaders across the ditch, Will Enzinger highlighted the importance of the initiative: “This will provide valuable development opportunities for our dressage athletes, while delivering an outstanding competition experience. Other disciplines like Eventing and Jumping have seen the benefits of team-based competition- particularly the exposure to team culture - and both EA and ESNZ High Performance programs are committed to making this an annual fixture.”

For many locally based athletes, the chance to compete as part of a team has been sorely missed. While Nations Cup events are a staple across Europe and the United States, Oceania has lacked a comparable format - until now.

The return of the Trans-Tasman Challenge will help bridge that gap, giving riders the opportunity to experience the dynamics, pressure, and pride of team competition - just as they would at a World Championship or Olympic Games.

This inaugural return will feature a dynamic mix of combinations, including seasoned Grand Prix riders, developing combinations, and emerging Young Riders. Each nation will field a team of two Grand Prix combinations and two Young Riders.

Don’t miss the chance to witness the performances that will decide the Trans-Tasman Challenge - and be part of the return of a true test of team spirit.