Festival of British Eventing at Gatcombe cancelled

The Festival of British Eventing at Gatcombe Park is the latest equestrian event to fall foul of the inclement weather. The event, which hosts a number of national championships, was due to run this weekend (13-15 July) in Gloucestershire.

Co-organiser Captain Mark Phillips said: “The unprecedented rainfall over the last month has produced exceptionally wet ground conditions. Due to the continuing unsettled weather we are unable to safely continue the preparations for the Festival.

“We know that riders and spectators will be disappointed – especially as so many events have been cancelled already this year. We did everything possible to ensure that the event took place, but sadly the hard-working ground crew at Gatcombe Park have been defeated by the weather.”

British Eventing’s Mike Etherington Smith added: “The organising team has explored all options to see if there is a way to make the Festival happen, but it has simply not been possible.

“We will do all we can with regard to re-scheduling the British Championships later in the year at alternative venues and will keep members updated as and when we have plans in place.”

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