Britain’s first heavy horse driving trials takes place this weekend in the New Forest
Six teams will take part in Britain’s first driving trials challenge for heavy horses this weekend (19-21 July) in the New Forest.
The British Heavy Horse Driving Trials club has organised a British equivalent to the French Route du Poisson (Fish Race), a biennial event which attracts several hundred thousand spectators along its route in Normandy.
Each team comprises of three pairs and a single horse. Entries from the UK have been received from the Harbridge Percherons and the Wessex Percheron Club, as well as teams of Shire horses, Suffolk Punch, a British Ardennes and French Ardennes.
The challenge, which takes place at Harbridge Farm and the Fordingbridge Show, and is sponsored by Hilton Herbs, includes driven and ridden skills, changing horses, a driving marathon and timber loading, withthe horses working in relays over the three days.
The winners will receive the Chris Zeuner Memorial Trophy presented by Diana Zeuner of Heavy Horse World.
The weekend’s event will provide an excellent practise run for the teams considering travelling to next year’s Route du Poisson.
Hilary Self from Hilton Herbs said: “We were thrilled to be a part of last year’s “Fish Run” and are delighted to involved in the British equivalent organised by Rowena and John McDermot.”
Endurance vets Sarah Coombs and Rod Fisher will be keeping a close eye on the horses as they compete in the marathon section and Driven Skills Test.
For more information on this event visit: www.hiltonherbs.com
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