Top show jumper Stuart Jenkins returns north for Townsville Show

One of Australia’s top equestrian show jumpers has been competing at this year’s Townsville Show. See what he makes of the local competition.

Australian Senior show jumping champion Stuart Jenkins with Fairview CK. Picture: Evan Morgan

One of Australia’s top equestrian show jumpers has been competing at this year’s Townsville Show.

Stuart Jenkins, with his horse Fairview Alicana, were crowned show jumping Australian Senior Champions last year at the Australian Championships at the Sydney International Equestrian Centre.

Based at Glamorgan Vale, halfway between Brisbane and Toowoomba, Jenkins has proved to be one of the country’s most consistent and top-ranked competitors for many years, but it is the first time in 20 years that he has ventured north.

“I have come to support some of the shows up here and bring a team of young horses to Townsville and keep going all the way through to Cairns,” he said.

“It’s a great experience for the young horses and helps educate them.”

Australian Senior show jumping champion Stuart Jenkins and Chloe Howard with Fairview CK. Picture: Evan Morgan

He said he had been impressed with the standard of show jumping he has observed since coming north.

“The standard is great,” he said. “It’s just unfortunately, there’s not a great deal of numbers and support. It would be good to get more riders back because then it’ll help improve the standard at the same time.”

He said he was enjoying the trip north.

“Essentially taking about a month. I think it’s just a very enjoyable the shows and committees are all fantastic,” Mr Jenkins said.

 “It’s good to get along with pleasurable experiences to come to come north and get some nice weather in the winter.”

Originally published as Top show jumper Stuart Jenkins returns north for Townsville Show