This year's Australian International 3-Day Event has gone from being at risk of cancellation to gaining national television exposure, following a deal with Channel 7.
In May organiser Gillian Rolton announced the event may not go ahead because of a budget shortfall. But eventing enthusiasts rallied and donated funds for the event, ensuring its survival.
Under the television deal, highlights of the world-class equestrian event, held in Adelaide's Parklands from November 13 to 15, will be screened to a national audience on a weekend, day-time timeslot in January with the possibility of further exposure later next year.
"This is the first time the event has been screened on a national, commercial television station and we are thrilled that Channel 7 has recognised the importance and popularity of equestrian events in this country, committing to covering this important event," Gillian Rolton said.
"Tickets are now on sale, with this year set to be bigger and better than ever with an expanded range of events, as well as a strong field of competitors from Australia and New Zealand in the Olympic level four-star class."
With the Saturday of the event coinciding with the running of the much loved Credit Union Christmas Pageant on November 14, organisers are theming the day as a "family day" encouraging families to enjoy the fabulous sights and sounds of the Pageant and then spend the afternoon relaxing in the parklands.
For the kids, there will be pony rides, a dedicated playground area, arts and crafts and children's entertainment. While for the mums and dads, the expanded Trade and Lifestyle Village and the Food and Wine Fair - featuring some of South Australia's finest wineries - should appeal to every appetite.
"Rymill Park will again be the vibrant 'heart of the event' and we're really working hard to make sure that it offers even more attractions for horse lovers and the general public alike," said Rolton.
The event is the most important horse trials event in the southern hemisphere. It has four-star status and just last November there was talk that it would try to achieve the new five-star rating when it was introduced this year.
It is one of only six four-star equestrian competitions in the world, taking its place alongside Badminton and Burghley in the United Kingdom, Kentucky in the United States, Pau in France and Luhmuhlen in Germany.
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