Chatsworth celebrates 50th anniversary
Chatsworth is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its first ever horse trials – a one-day event run back in 1955 – with exciting new developments planned for the 2005 Chatsworth SsangYong International Horse Trials (14-15 May 2005).
Over the past half a century, the horse trials at Chatsworth has evolved into one of the most prestigious and popular international competitions in the country. Since 2003 it has also been one of only a handful of events in Britain hosting an FEI World Cup qualifier.
This year Chatsworth will run a special advanced section for eight- and nine-year-old horses only, which aims to highlight talented young horses with the potential to compete at the highest level. The Event Horse Owners Association and PricewaterhouseCooper will sponsor this new section, which was initiated by the Duchess of Devonshire.
“Although a number of events hold special sections for young horses, we think this is the first time a British event has hosted an advanced section for younger horses,” explains event spokesperson Kate Green.
“The horses competing in this section at Chatsworth may go on to compete at the World Equestrian Games in 2006 or the Beijing Olympics in 2008. Spectators will get a chance to see these talented young horses competing against each other and possibly spot a future Olympic medallist.”
Course-designer and event director Mike Etherington-Smith has produced a major new fence construction during the winter, while the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire have expanded their unique range of “art in the park” cross-country fences by commissioning another sculpture jump.
Family entertainment is always an additional draw for Chatsworth spectators. This year visitors will be treated to a gundog display plus Amanda Savile’s jumping cows — Chariots of Fire — alongside the popular country fair and terrier racing.
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For further details of the event (tel: 01295 788492) or visit: www.chatsworth.org
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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.