Whether you are into equestrian sports or not, the Border Districts Showjumping Club Spring Grand Prix will be a wonderful spectacle for anyone who appreciates talented athletes (of the two-legged and four-legged variety) and nail-biting competition.

The two-day event, kicking off tomorrow, will be the club’s first Spring Grand Prix and this year replaces the well-known Wodonga Showjumping Spectacular, typically held towards the end of the year.

With a change of venue and promise of fine conditions for the outdoor event at the Albury equestrian complex, more than 150 riders from across mainly NSW and Victoria will tackle a range of classes ranging from novice and children’s through to the elite levels.

Event spokesperson Jess Bertram said it was the first time the club had run a Spring Grand Prix, which will be the first event of a three-round series with competitions at Tatura and Euroa the following weekends.

The main highlight of this weekend will be Sunday’s Triple Crown Series Round 1 Grand Prix, which is scheduled to kick off at 2pm.

This is where spectators will witness top horse and rider combinations tackling impressive and colourful jumps up to a height of about 1.5 metres.

Renowned course builder David Sheppard will design the course, which is expected to be a true test of the skills, timing and jumping ability of horse and rider – so there’s sure to be plenty of thrills and perhaps even a few spills on a course of this size and technicality.

Former Olympians Russell Johnstone and Laurie Lever will take their places among the 11 grand prix riders alongside other well-known show jumpers including Brook Dobbin and Jess Barton.

Closer to home, Sean Greaves and Kelly Lees will be among those flying the flag for the local riders with plenty of young talent also on display.

Ms Bertram said the event was a very important one for the region and the local equestrian scene, showcasing top talent and the Border’s first-class equestrian facilities.

“We reached maximum capacity for entries in less than 24 hours for classes across the board so it’s going to be a very big show,” she said.

“This is a chance for Border residents to see some of the best of the best in their own backyard.”

Entry to the public is free and riders and spectators can keep up to date with the action and results over the weekend by liking the Border Districts Showjumping Club on Facebook. For more information contact Jess Bertram on 0412 397 716.