Star-studded lineup for Bolesworth International
British stars from showjumping and dressage will head to Cheshire next month for the Ashford Farm CSI4* Bolesworth International (18-21 June).
Last year’s grand prix winner William Whitaker will return to defend his crown and competes for a total prize-fund at the show of £250,000.
The 25-year-old will be joined at the spectacular venue by at least three members of his famous family including uncles John and Michael Whitaker and cousin Robert.
British number eight Guy Williams will be in action at the four-day show, up against some of his British team-mates, including Spencer Roe and 2012 Olympic gold medallist Nick Skelton.
Ireland, too, will be represented by individual bronze medal-winning rider Cian O’Connor, as well as Billy Twomey, Cameron Hanley, Trevor Breen and Dermott Lennon.
From further afield, we welcome Australia’s Edwina Tops-Alexander, ranked number 19 in the world, Laura Kraut and Lauren Hough from USA, Belgian rider Jos Lansink, Germany’s Philipp Weishaupt and don’t miss puissance hero Daniel Bluman of Columbia over the big red wall on Friday night.
“Bolesworth International is a world-class venue, it’s one of the best shows I’ve jumped at and to have a new CSI4* in Britain is exciting,” said William Whitaker. “The arena is unique and the surroundings are spectacular. The whole event is so welcoming, the show has left a impressive mark on the equestrian calendar.”
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Thursday’s Equestrian.com intermediate dressage to music class has attracted entries from 2012 Olympic gold medallist Laura Tomlinson and European team bronze medal-winning rider Michael Eilberg.
Fans of the hit 1990s TV series Gladiators are also in for a treat on Saturday when the famous referee John Anderson will be presiding over eight teams, including some stars of the original line-up, such as Hunter, and some intrepid riders in a relay challenge.
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Jennifer is passionate at showjumping and her role as H&H’s showjumping editor has taken her around the world reporting from shows and interviewing riders, connections and those involved behind the scenes. Since joining H&H from BBC Sport in 2005, she has written on every subject across the equestrian sphere — from turnout rugs to stable management — and has interviewed gold medallists, world champions and winners galore. She also has first-hand experience of working in the equestrian industry as a riding instructor and yard manager.