Equestrian: Dunstan times three for ladies in waiting

Melody Matheson suspects she may have finished sixth on Cheltenham in the Lady Rider of the Year class of the Horse of the Year Show. PHOTO/FILE

Katie Laurie and Dunstan Springfield are back to defend their crown so it pays for all the "lady" riders in the house to know that and pay attention today.

But wait, there's more. The Olympian also has Dunstan Breeze and Dunstan Lucca in today's elite field of 29 in the Ultra Mox Lady Rider of the Year, starting at 5pm during the Horse of the Year Show in Hastings.

So what will it take to beat Laurie (nee McVean) who has a wily old campaigner in father Jeff McVean alongside her?

"It's really competitive because every female wants to win it," said Hawke's Bay entrant Melody Matheson last night who will be in the saddle of Conyers.

"I guess, you just have to go fast and clear," said Matheson who only acquired her former dressage horse from veteran competitor Maurice Beatson.

The 22-year-old agrees the favourites tag sits with Laurie who has won the title five times on Dunstan models - 2007 on Hairy McClairy, 2010 Daffodil, 2012 Zimerona G, and twice on Springfield in 2013 and last year.

"She's a good rider and she's really competitive," said Matheson mindful it required skills to match the equestrian queen. "If you ride well and show some form then you'll be in with a shot."

Lucy Fell (nee Akers) are also a combo to watch after the pair etched their name on the silverware in 2011 although the rider emulated that feat in the class in 2014 on Cortaflex Tinapai.

It's a pretty simple method for Matheson as well - ride well and 14-year-old Conyers will complement with jumps accordingly.

Despite her limited rapport with the Conyers, she likes him and is slowing building an affinity with "a sweet horse".

"I'm hoping it doesn't rain any more because I haven't ridden him in wet conditions but I reckon he'll be fine," she said, revealing they were placed in their first grand prix and competed in a premier grand prix in Tauranga last weekend.

Matheson's best placing in the class is fifth in Roulette MH but she ruled out the horse today because of injury.

She suspected she might have finished sixth on Cheltenham one year.

The forecast today promises an autumn-like 20C with a chance of shower but not until 10pm.