Equestrian: Nicholson to compete in Auckland

Andrew Nicholson, (NZL) with Nereo during the First Horse Inspection at the 2017 Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials. Wednesday 3 May. Copyright Photo: Stephen Bartholomew / Libby Law Photograp

Eventing's man of the moment, Andrew Nicholson, is to compete in Auckland in November.

Nicholson, who won his first Badminton title a week ago, having recovered from a near career-ending broken neck two years ago, will take part in the inaugural Equitana Auckland show.

Regarded as the world's biggest allround equestrian event, Equitana incorporates entertainment, top level competition, education, a trade show and a range of aspects of equestrian sport.

"This will be his first time back on New Zealand soil for some years," event director Andrew Hansen said.

"We are ecstatic to have him here where we will be showcasing his brilliance, expertise and experience."

The Auckland event is a sister show to those in Germany - considered the largest equine trade event in the world - and Melbourne.

Competition in showing, eventing and dressage will be a highlight and some of the biggest names in the sport are expected to be confirmed in the coming months.

"I'm really looking forward to coming back to New Zealand and being part of the action," six-time Olympian Nicholson said.

"It promises to be a unique and exciting event, and a great opportunity for me to thank equestrian fans in person for their messages and support."

A nine-time winner of four-star classic events, Nicholson has been engaged in a standoff with Equestrian Sport New Zealand since an incident at the world games in 2014 where he had an altercation with a New Zealand team vet.

Attempts to broker a peace accord between Nicholson and ESNZ have failed and it may be his days of representing New Zealand are over.

But the former world No 1 rider proved at Badminton he remains one of the great three-day eventers.

The show runs from November 23-26 and will be staged at the ASB Showgrounds.