ROSS SMITH

Anyone who has evented at an advanced level in the United States and Europe will know just how difficult it is to find the right horse.

It can be a frustrating exercise, and you have every right to be fussy. No-one wants to settle for second best. Riders are simply not going to be in the hunt without a competitive horse.

Let me make it easier for you. My name is Ross Smith. My mother, Judith Smith, represented New Zealand at showjumping, so needless to say I could very nearly ride before I could walk.

You're probably asking yourself: how could someone in Australia possibly be able to help me find a top eventer or showjumper? To answer that question, you'll have to bear with me while I give a little of my background.

Having been brought up around horses, it was only natural that I wanted to work with them. I trained as a farrier and found no shortage of work. At one stage I was shoeing up to 120 horses a week, as well as pursuing my passion for eventing and showjumping. On top of that, I was breaking in 50 to 70 horses a year.

I lived in Australia for nearly 10 years, and trained a team of horses with which I competed extensively throughout the country.

In 1997, I sold four horses to a Californian woman and she invited me to the United States to compete.

 I jumped at the opportunity. I took one of my own horses to event and ended up staying three years. I competed in jumping events right across the US.
 
It was full-on. Every week I was competing,   The highlight came just weeks before my return: a win in the Lone Star Challenge in Dallas, Texas.
I was able to see first-hand what American riders wanted in horses -- and the difficulty many had in finding the right mount.

Australia has a long and proud history in horse breeding and rearing. Many of the finest European bloodlines were brought here by settlers last century. Wealthy breeders were always looking at opportunities to improve their stock by importing new blood from all over the world, including America.

Make no mistake: Many Australian horses have quality bloodlines and outstanding ability. Australian's admire toughness in a horse and it's an ideal quality to take into competition.

So why not consider an Australian horse? "I am experienced in exporting stock, and can guarantee you no headaches. I do all the paperwork, and Australia's lack of serious infectious diseases means quarantining is only required for two days. An American buyer could have one of my horses at their door in a week. "i am also sourcing horses from throughout Australia.

Recently, my partner, Mel and I, travelled to Europe to source horses.

 I, believe my long involvement with horses (more than 25 years), and my overseas experience, not to mention my extensive contacts in the Australian horse industry, put me in a strong position to be able to service overseas buyers.

Take a look at the testimonials. As you can see, there are plenty of buyers happy to vouch for the quality of my horses.

I have a handful of horses on-line (see "Horses for Sale") which may appeal, but if you're after something in particular then please email me. Perhaps you're after a warmblood, or a thoroughbred jumper. With our contacts, I'm confident I can track down the right animal with the right ability.

If you've been looking for that special horse, what have you got to lose?

I am able to send a professional video of any horses I think might suit your requirements.

Better still, why not pay Australia a visit? I can arrange to show you quality horses that match your requirements, and can even arrange for you to compete on them if you desire. They could be shipped to arrive home when you do!

Perhaps you could combine your visit with a holiday. Australia is a fantastic destination.

I can arrange a package deal for you, including the top holiday spots, and, of course, show you some bloodstock! .

Thank you for visiting my site. I sincerely hope you'll enjoy having a look around, and that I've given you food for thought.

I, know I have the background and experience to serve overseas buyers. I'd love to hear from you.

Ross