But, that's what Denman's Jess Somerfield and other local riders were able to do at the recent Sydney International.

Five Upper Hunter talents took part in the prestigious event including a pair of young and promising stars who got to enjoy a taste of one of Australia's major title competitions.

Somerfield, who is also coach, was the standout as she won the three-star class on her prized horse 'Lakeview Albion'.

They both held their nerve in a tight finish that required them to go clear and under time to retain their 1.40 penalty advantage and win the class.

It was an amazing feeling for the rider and she said it was an extremely proud moment given the calibre of opposition she was up against.

"We had an absolutely fantastic event and winning it was pretty fabulous," Somerfield explained.

"It's one of the three big titles we'll have for this year and I'm certainly on one of the younger, greener horses.

"So, it's pretty fantastic to win and I think it's the beginning of very exciting things to come."

Another competitor who represented the region well was Lauren Browne, who finished 13th in the four-star, which was the hardest class available at the tournament.

Browne, a Muswellbrook local, recently highlighted her intentions of gaining qualification for the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympic Games.

Experienced rider Melissa Coop also took part and set a personal best, which was a great achievement.

Ashley Randle and 17-year-old Shai Danver also made the trip to Sydney and Somerfield said the experience would have been invaluable.

"This is probably the first year they've opened up the lower levels as well," she added.

"So, it just gives the younger riders a chance to compete in a high pressure situation with elite riders at elite levels, so they can prepare for the future."

The impressive outing from the local riders is just another showing of the talent in the area spread across all different sports, and the region's reputation is growing with every success.