Get the lowdown on this fixture from Eventing magazine's horse trials guide — including what riders say about the event, plus vital statistics
Date: Thursday 9 – Sunday 12 July 2015
Organiser: Helen West
Contact: 07827 290471; helen.west@clintondevon.com; www.bicton-arena.co.uk
Location: Devon
Entries open: 6 June
Ballot date: 22 June at 12 noon
Entries close: 1 July
Link to Bicton (2) entries: www.britisheventing.com/bicton-2
How to get there
Half a mile past Yettington. Vehicles cannot gain access to Bicton Arena through Bicton Park. Postcode EX9 7BL.
What the organisers say
Bicton Arena is situated in the majestic setting of Grade One-Listed Devon parkland, and being run by an organiser who is also a rider. It is our aim to make the event enjoyable for all and we have a new title sponsor this year, Empire Coachbuilders.
Its close proximity to junction 30 of the M5 and “Daisymount” junction of the A303 means it is easily accessible.
The dressage arenas are on purpose-levelled ground with excellent grass cover. In August, the CIC dressage and showjumping phases will take place in the iconic, main grass arena, with its great competition atmosphere. The showjumping in July and for the other classes in August will be on the Sport Track Pro-Wax arena.
The cross-country tracks are designed by Helen West in July and Helen and Eric Winter in August, and make great use of the natural features that the park has to offer.
All courses are educational and will encourage first-time combinations as well as more established partnerships, with the emphasis being on creating a positive experience, and producing combinations for the future. There are alternatives at the more difficult fences. Bicton is fortunate to possess sandy loam old turf, which ensures great going all year round.
What the riders say
For rider comments, see Bicton 1
Percentage of cross-country clears 2014
OI: 79%
I: 55%
ON: 80%
IN: 75%
N: 61%
BE100 Pony: 82%
BE100: 77%
5YO: 88%
BE90: 67%
BE80(T): 80%
Download part two of the horse trials guide for just £1.49: Eventing horse trials guide part two
Buy Eventing magazine’s April issue for our full horse trials guide detailing every event from July to October 2015 or purchase a digital copy of the guide here.