Super rugby: Crusaders' horses for Napier

The Crusaders horses will gallop onto Napier's McLean Park after crossing Cook Strait for the first time for the match between the Crusaders and Chiefs on May 21.
Five horses will travel by road transporter to Napier from the polo farm in Rangiora near Christchurch where they are based.
Hawke's Bay Rugby Union commercial manager Jay Campbell said the showcase would elevate McLean Park's big day to a "different league". "It's all part of the Crusaders' brand and mystique," he said. "We're getting the full entertainment package including the horses and flames, which is exciting to be part of."
About 8500 tickets of a 16,500 capacity had already been sold, he said.
Horseman Mark Donald, who has looked after and ridden the Crusaders horses since the first year of Super Rugby in 1996, said the trip would take several days.
"They can't really travel for more than four hours at a time so we will need frequent breaks," Mr Donald said.
"They need a lot of care. So we are very careful to look after them during the trip and to give them lots of fluids and electrolytes in preparation for it."
The steeds, all former polo horses, were making the trip as the match is considered a home game for the Crusaders after it was moved to McLean Park from the earthquake damaged AMI Stadium.
The fixture is a re-match for the two New Zealand teams following the Crusaders' 34-16 victory over the Chiefs at Mt Maunganui in round nine.
Tickets for the match are available from www.ticketdirect.co.nz or 0800 224 224. Tickets can also be bought in person from the Hawke's Bay Opera House, Pettigrew Green Arena and Napier Municipal Theatre.