Emma Pritchard

The gorgeous purple blossoms of the flowering jacaranda trees created a stunning scene at the Grafton Showground on November 5 and 6, when local sports club Valley and Rivers Showjumping hosted their Jacaranda Weekend of Showjumping.

More than 40 riders and their mounts participated in the two-day event, which also included a training session, with competitors marvelling at the colourful setting as they enjoyed the ambience of the occasion.

With riders embracing the jacaranda spirit and incorporating some bright splashes of purple into their uniforms, Secretary of Valley and Rivers Showjumping Louise Light said everyone walked away with a smile on their face following the event, with many expressing their hopes of it becoming an annual tradition.

“Everyone got into the jacaranda theme, and the jacaranda trees made such a spectacular backdrop at the showground during the weekend,” she said.

“We would like to make it an annual event because last year we held the event by coincidence when the trees were flowering, and we all said ‘let’s do it again next year’ and we made it happen.

“It is something I’ve always wanted to do during this time of the year, and so many people were stoked by how well it came together.

“The riders were all really happy to dress up in purple for a bit of fun, and the whole vibe of the weekend was amazing.”

Ms Light said she was extremely happy the club was able to host the event earlier this month after inclement weather and persistent rainfall resulted in several cancellations, postponements and rescheduling of showjumping competitions throughout the year.

She said it was also encouraging to see plenty of new faces at the Jacaranda Weekend of Showjumping and acknowledged the Grafton Showground and Grafton Speedway for their ongoing support.

Valley and Rivers Showjumping are currently planning to host a training clinic and ribbon day early in 2023.

The Clarence Valley Independent will notify our readers once dates are confirmed.