Dungog’s Paul Athanasoff, Heath Ryan (Heatherbrae) and Craig Barrett (Branxton) were included in the dressage, eventing and jumping disciplines respectively.

The trio are part of 20 riders named in the elite category just seven months out from the London Games and they are the front runners to clinch spots on the Olympic team.

A further 26 riders have been included in national “A” squads, including Rozzie Ryan (Heatherbrae) in the dressage.

Together with the elite squads the “A” squads make up the shadow teams for Olympic and Paralympic games according to Equestrian Australia high performance manager Brett Mace.

“The elite listed combinations are presently the front runners for the Olympic and Paralympic teams, however, I am sure our A squad members will make the most of every opportunity to claim a place on the team through exceptional performances in the lead up to London,” Mace said.

“Through the national performance directors and selection panels, we will continue to monitor our combinations at major events prior to nominations being due.”

Nominations will be made throughout May and June.

Athanasoff and Wirragulla Nicklaus, Ryan and Regardez Moi as well as Barrett and Wendela are the Maitland combinations on the elite list.

In the “A” squad Rozzie Ryan and GV Bullwinkle team up, while Barrett has a second hope in the eventing with Sandhills Brillaire.

Mace said the bar would be set high for Australian teams in their upcoming campaign.