Sydney International Three-Day Event (SYD3DE) is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with the Australian Turf Club (ATC) Foundation, introducing dedicated competition opportunities for retired thoroughbred racehorses at the 2026 event, to be held from 20–22 November at Sydney International Equestrian Centre, Horsley Park.
The partnership will see the introduction of an exciting new eventing class, the Thoroughbred Legacy Championship for Amateur Riders(CCN1*-L), alongside the ATC Foundation Legacy Show Jump Competition, creating exciting opportunities to showcase the versatility, athleticism and potential of thoroughbreds in their careers beyond racing.
Creating New Pathways for Thoroughbreds and Amateur Riders
The Thoroughbred Legacy Championship for Amateur Riders, contested at CCN1*-L level, has been specifically designed to provide thoroughbred horses ridden by amateur riders with the opportunity to contest a prestigious championship in a high-performance environment.
This competition aims to encourage greater participation, development and recognition of thoroughbreds within eventing, while acknowledging the important contribution amateur riders make to the retraining and ongoing careers of retired racehorses.
ATC Foundation Legacy Show Jump Competition – Saturday 21 November
Adding to the excitement of the partnership, the ATC Foundation Legacy Show Jump Competition will be held on Saturday 21 November in the Olympic Arena at Sydney International Equestrian Centre.
The competition will be open to horses and riders of all breeds and backgrounds, with free entry offered to thoroughbred horses, providing an additional incentive for owners and riders to showcase their thoroughbreds at this prestigious venue.
The competition will provide another opportunity for thoroughbreds to demonstrate their ability and versatility in equestrian sport and serves as a great entry point to a competition environment.
Sydney 3DE President Shane Rose says it is a natural partnership. “We are thrilled to work with the ATC Foundation to develop more opportunities for retired racehorses. We know thoroughbreds are naturally talented for eventing and make great horses for professionals and amateurs at every level.”
Celebrating the Thoroughbred Beyond Racing
The partnership between Sydney International 3DE and the ATC Foundation recognises the importance of creating meaningful opportunities for these horses beyond their racing careers.
By establishing dedicated competition classes and incentives, the initiative aims to encourage more riders to consider thoroughbreds as competitive equestrian partners and to support their continued development in sport.
Importantly, the program recognises the vital role amateur riders play in providing second careers for retired racehorses, offering them opportunities to compete and progress within a supportive and rewarding environment.
Sydney International 3DE 2026
The 2026 Sydney International Three-Day Event will take place from 20–22 November at Sydney International Equestrian Centre, Horsley Park, bringing together riders from grassroots through to international levels.
The introduction of the ATC Foundation Thoroughbred Legacy competitions represent an exciting expansion of the event’s program and a significant step towards strengthening the connection between the racing and equestrian communities.
