Top drivers head for Windsor
Top drivers from around the world will be competing in this year’s prestigious Land Rover International Driving Grand Prix at the Royal Windsor Horse Show (14-18 May).
This competition, which is the driven equivalent of three-day eventing, will see 78 entries from 15 countries competing in classes for horse and pony teams,tandems, pairs and singles across the three phases of dressage, marathon and cones.
The horse teams class has an impressive 19 turnouts entered including British-based Australia Boyd Exell, who was second in the recent driving World Cup, FelixBrasseur (Belgium), Baron Wolf Von Buchholtz (Argentina) and James Fairclough (America).
Top female four-in-hand driver Karen Bassett will be representing Britain alongside Barry Capstick, George Bowman, Dick Lane, Geoffrey Woods, Phil Owen and Adrian Puddy.
Prince Philip will be aiming for a third win in the pony teams class with his fabulous flying Fells. Anna Grayson and Philippa Gammell will also be trying to claim a British win in the class against strong European competition.
The Windsor marathon course always proves a challenge and this year will be no exception with the famous water hazard expected to be a favourite viewing point for spectators on Saturday.
Visitors to the event on Thursday and Friday can experiencing the fun of driving first-hand with top driver Gary Docking, who will be hosting a “teach-in” during the lunchtime breaks. Garry will also be available for question and answer sessions.
Never miss out on the latest happenings in the equestrian world
Advanced tickets (adults £10-£12; concessions £7-£8) to the Royal Windsor Horse Show, including the Land Rover International Driving Grand Prix, are available from the box office (tel: 0870 121 5370).
To find out more visit: www.royal-windsor-horse-show.co.uk
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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.