Charlotte Dujardin GBR winner of the gold medal during the Grand Prix Freestyle for the individual Dressage competition at the Olympic Equestrian Centre in Deodoro near Rio, Brazil on 15th August 2016 kisses kiss valegro
The multiple Olympic medallist, who holds the world record scores for all three grand prix tests, will appear in Gatcombe Park’s main arena on the Sunday, 6 August, from 1.30-2pm.
“The world’s greatest ever dressage horse will be making a ‘star’ appearance at the Festival of British Eventing,” said a spokesman for the event.
“Valegro, who has risen to a celebrity status far beyond any other horse in recent history, will be parading in hand to give his fans an opportunity to soak up his electrifying presence.
“He officially retired in an emotional send-off at Olympia in December 2016 and since then has been making special appearances at events around the country – which he loves!”
Visitors to Gatcombe on 6 August will be able to meet Valegro in his stable, by the main arena.
“So don’t miss out on the perfect opportunity to pat the dressage superstar and even pose for a selfie with him,” the spokesman added.
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The culmination of the three-day festival also features the CIC3* British Open Championship and the fifth leg of the 2017 Event Rider Masters series.
Among the entries received for the three-star are Gemma Tattersall on Arctic Soul, Izzy Taylor on Perfect Stranger, Mark Todd on NZB Campino, Chris Burton on TS Jamaimo, Ben Hobday on Ciletto H and Emily King on Dargun.
The event also features the British novice, intermediate and amateur championships, a Burghley young event horse series competition, Pony Club showjumping and arena eventing.
On the Sunday, visitors will also be able to enjoy the Shetland Pony Grand National, mounted games, dressage to music and displays by the Riding for the Disabled Association and Atkinsons Action Horses.
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Eleanor is an experienced journalist who spent over eight years working for local and national newspapers before joining H&H as news editor in March 2016. Passionate about equine welfare and exposing the truth, Eleanor has reported on all aspects of the industry, from Brexit to anti-bullying campaigns, and from dressage rules to mules. Her sport of choice is showjumping, in which she competes her own horses, and she also enjoys reporting at local jumping shows through to international championships.
