Stars and shopping at Equus 2003
This year’s Equus – The Horse Event (3-6 April) at the ExCel exhibition centre in London Docklands includes a star-studded line up headed by Olympic maestros of eventing, show jumping and dressage: Pippa Funnell, Geoff Billington and Anky van Grunsven.
These international riders will be hosting individual evening masterclasses where visitors can learn the skills and training techniques that have helped Pippa (Thursday), Geoff (Friday) and Anky (Saturday) reach the pinnacle of their chosen discipline.
Spectators can also meet Pippa and Geoff’s famous equine partners Supreme Rock and 17-year-old It’s Otto who will be in attendance alongside many other top riders and horses.
Anky will be demonstrating her techniques with the help of some of her most promising students after sustaining a broken leg in January.
“I really enjoy giving clinics and I’m sure Equus 2003 will have a wonderful atmosphere”, says Anky.
Learn from top names
Other stars in action during the four-day exhibition include event riders Brook Staples and Jeanette Brakewell, who will be taking part in an eventing clinic on Sunday morning with her silver medal-winning WEG partner Over To You.
Never miss out on the latest happenings in the equestrian world
On Thursday morning, Britain’s top female show jumper Di Lampard will be explaining how to produce an international show jumper, while on Friday top show pony producer Julie Templeton will be providing essential tips for show ring success.
On Saturday, John Lassetter will be drawing on knowledge gained at The Spanish Riding School of Vienna and The Cadre Noir to help Carol Alcock, a successful British Riding Clubs competitor improve her dressage performance.
Try something new
As well as top displays and entertainment, visitors to Equus will have the chance to try western riding or polo with help from western riding expert David Deptford and top female polo player Victoria Grace.
Other highlights include:
- Trick and stunt riding demonstration
- The Household Cavalry’s musical ride
- The art of side saddle with Claire Lewis
- Equine behaviourist Kelly Marks
- Chariot racing
- Parelli Natural Horsemanship
- Specialist Horse Trainer Gary Witheford
- The English Vaulting squad
- The British Riding Club’s Quadrille
- Rural Riders dressage squad
Plus shopping opportunities galore!
To find out more or to book tickets (tel: 0870 8422231) or visit www.equusevent.co.uk
Carol is an experienced journalist and editor, who is also a passionate amateur rider and dedicated horse owner, having ridden since childhood. She has a particular interest in the emotional well-being and ethical training of horses, alongside veterinary matters, having garnered extensive first-hand experience of numerous equine health conditions through more than 30 years of horse ownership.