The story of Blenheim Horse Trials
The first Blenheim International Horse Trials, sited in the beautiful and historic parkland surrounding Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, took place in 1990 and received a record entry for a new horse trials.
The success of the event lead to Blenheim hosting the FEI European Young Rider Championships in 1994 and last year it became the first British venue for 40 years to host the senior FEI European Eventing Championships other than Burghley.
Mike Etherington-Smith has been the event director throughout and has produced the cross-country course from scratch as well as maintaining a loyal committee and team of helpers, most of whom have been associated with Blenheim since the event began.
Pippa Funnell is the most successfully rider in the history of Blenheim with a record four victories to her credit, while Zara Phillips will always be fondly remembered by Blenheim enthusiasts after the fairytale ending to last year’s competition when she won individual and team gold medals.
View Blenheim’s roll of honour >>
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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.