Eventing buzz continues as top riders head for Blenheim

Entries for the prestigious Fidelity Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials (6-9 September 2012), are once again strong, with many of the world’s top riders wanting to ride in both the CCI and CIC classes held in the ground of this stunning baroque Palace. *These include many of the Olympic riders, looking to test their up-and-coming horses at 3 star level, as well as many other well known names who will be competing alongside a host of exciting up and coming young riders.

More entries accommodated: “We were obviously delighted to have so many applicants”, says Event Director Mandy Hervieu “but we are constrained by the layout and logistics (of a world heritage site) and of course we want to ensure optimum conditions for those who do run so we have extended the daily programmes and number of combinations we have accepted (105 in CCI and 71 in CIC). However, we have still had to ballot but hope that those on the wait list may get in, particularly as some combinations are also listed for Burghley,”

Team GB parade: The silver medal winning Team GB Eventers will be parading at Blenheim on Sunday with Zara, William, Tina and Nicola also taking part in the three star classes, alongside many of the overseas riders who competed at Greenwich - giving those a who did not manage to get 2012 tickets a chance to see them in action and show their support and admiration.

New course: The combinations which take part in the two main events – the CCI 3* or 8 an 9 year old CIC 3* - will enjoy the opportunity to test out a new course with many new and rejuvenated fences and areas of ground which have benefited from significant improvements since last year. “The ground is perfect at the moment and we have done more grass cutting than ever,” says Clerk of the Course and course builder David Evans; “ but, as always, we will water and sand and take whatever measures we need to in order to deliver the very best going possible. We are looking forward to seeing how the riders cope with some of the new jumping challenges that we are building.”

Riders and spectators can get a sneak preview of the course online and an interactive guided cross country course will also be available for iPhone and iPad users. Other attractions: As well as the three star eventing – which offers cross country on both days of the weekend - and the Team GB Eventing parade on the Sunday, Blenheim offers a packed programme over the four days which also includes:

• Several Grass Roots arena-based Eventer Challenge classes

• Fun events for the professionals too; with the popular High jump class running once again and - new for this year - a bareback show jumping class against the clock

• Demonstrations and displays including a chance to see how Blenheim’s official charity, The Horse Trust, has improved and transformed the lives of former working and neglected horses.

• A wide selection of shops and stalls selling an interesting and varied selection of goods.

For Timetable and Tickets bookings visit www.blenheim-horse.co.uk Tickets start at just £8 when booked in advance (advance bookings close on 31st August) and tickets are also available on the gate. Children under 12 are free and parking is complimentary. *To see entries go to http://www.blenheim-horse.co.uk/cci-cic-competitor-information Ends/15 August 2012.