Olympic eventing legend stars in Waterloo re-enactment
Multiple Olympic medal-winning event rider Ian Stark is set to take on a starring role in a Battle of Waterloo re-enactment later this month (28 June).
The eventer (pictured above, credit: Paul Dodds), whose accolades include four Olympic silver medals and three Badminton titles, will be playing the role of the Duke of Wellington.
Facing him from across the “battlefield” on the Scottish Borders will be Ian McKie — joint master of the College Valley and North Northumberland — as Napoleon.
The event is set to be held under the Waterloo monument at Peniel Heugh at Harestanes.
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Complete with the stirrups the Duke of Wellington wore into battle 200 years ago, Ian and the other “soldiers” will be in period dress for the occasion.
Smoke and cannons are set to bring the scene to life, along with armies of foot soldiers and the cavalry.
Historian Peter Snow will be providing the commentary and the current Duke of Gloucester and Duke of Wellington will be attending.
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Ian, who he has three rehearsals coming up in the next 10 days, said he believes the organisers are hoping for between 300-400 people to take part.
“Now I am getting nervous,” he said.
“I think there is quite a responsibility involved.
“It is very exciting, it is a very important time.
“I am just glad I am Wellington and not Napoleon!”
The multiple World and European Championship medal-winner added he has not has not decided which horse he will ride yet, but it is likely to be one from his own equestrian centre in Selkirk.
Organisers are still looking for riders who would be interested in making up the cavalry.
Organising committee member Snippett Innes said it is “absolutely wonderful” that they have a top event rider and top point-to-point jockey facing each other.
“It promises to be spectacular,” she said.
Hosted by Lothian Estate, entry is free and there will also be music performed by military bands.
For more information visit: www.penielheugh2015waterloo.com
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Lucy is an experienced news journalist, reporter and presenter. Since joining the Horse & Hound team in 2015, Lucy has reported from major global sporting events including the Tokyo Paralympic Games and multiple European Championships, as well as Badminton, Burghley and London, to name a few. She has covered current affairs and sports news across the full spectrum of equestrian disciplines and racing, as well as human and equine welfare, industry news and court cases.