Fifty riders will compete for a prize pool of $20,000 in the fast-paced Hyundai Derby at Equidays in October.

Equidays spokesperson, Sarah Riches, says the event – the result of an inaugural partnership between Equidays and Hyundai – will attract a lot of interest as a derby event is rare on the New Zealand equine calendar.

Equidays will feature and wide range of horse events over three days.

'We're really excited to introduce the Hyundai Derby event. It's the first time an event of this calibre has been offered both at Equidays and within New Zealand. It will attract top riders who are keen on the challenges a derby course offers. There will also be huge excitement among spectators too, as it's something New Zealanders don't have the opportunity to see very often.”
Equidays 2013 will be held at Mystery Creek Events Centre, Hamilton, from October 18 to 20 with Hyundai NZ general manager Andy Sinclair saying Hyundai is excited to be supporting the inaugural Hyundai Derby.
'As a 100 per cent New Zealand-owned company, we take great pride in supporting local events and look forward to seeing some strong competition from NZ's best riders.”
Sure to be a crowd pleaser, the derby's high intensity, technical course – generally touted as a mix between cross country and showjumping – showcases speed and precision, providing plenty of entertainment for spectators.
One of New Zealand's top course designers, Gerrit Beker, in association with Showjumping Waikato, will ensure the high intensity course is designed and built professionally to the highest standard.
Sarah says spectators can expect to see a course that will test both horses and their rider's abilities.
'The Hyundai Derby event will be a test of technical ability and confidence, particularly for showjumping horses, which may, for the first time, be experiencing the undulating ground with banks, ditches and natural fences.
'It's a fantastic opportunity for spectators of all ages to see New Zealand's best riders in action. They can catch the action from the grandstand or various viewing points around the course to get a close up view of how riders navigate the various challenges of the course.”
Sarah also says that with Hyundai and Gerrit Beker on-board, the Hyundai Derby will eventually attract interest abroad, including international riding talent.
The Hyundai Derby will be limited to 50 riders, with entries closing September 27, 2013. For more information go to: www.equidays.co.nz