Hiho Events

BLENHEIM INTERNATIONAL HORSE TRIALS

9th - 12th September 2010

The Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials is one of the world's premier three star three day events. Set in the magnificent grounds of Blenheim Palace in Woodstock, Oxfordshire, and with the Palace as the backdrop for the main arena activities, the horse trial offers a fantastic opportunity to see some of the world's finest event riders and horses compete against one another in a truly spectacular location... not to mention some fantastic shopping!! Visit www.blenheim-horse.co.uk to buy tickets.

- What is a Horse Trial?

- What to wear

- Our hints and tips

- Where to stay

- Where is it?

- Weather

What is a Horse Trial?

Blenheim Palace Horse Trials is a 3-day event, but in traditional English style, is confusingly held over 4 days, not 3. Thursday and Friday are both Dressage days, Saturday is the Cross Country Phase and Sunday finishes with the Show Jumping phase. The scores from each phase are then combined together to give the overall score for the event.

Dressage, the first phase, is designed to show off the horse’s suppleness, rhythm and, most importantly, obedience and harmony with the rider. It is used to show that a horse that can later go on to complete a long, challenging cross country course, also has the training to be graceful and precise. It is amazing to watch such large animals floating along seemingly with no directions from their rider.

Cross Country, the most popular phase, requires extreme fitness and trust from both rider and horse. The course is built of several incredibly solid, natural fences, over around a 4 mile course. Fences include ditches, coffins, point fences and of course water complexes.

The Show Jumping Phase is used to test the horse’s fitness and agility. The course is made of around 12 knock down, coloured fences at about 1m20 in height. Riders must jump every fence clear, within the time limit. The course is small compared to most show jumping competitions, but remember, each horse has had to take it’s rider around a 4 mile course the previous day, so to do any of the jumps is an achievement in itself. Competitors jump in reverse order, leading to a tense atmosphere as the leading riders enter the ring to jump.

Blenheim is different from other 3-Day Events, because it has two cross country days for two separate competitions. Both Saturday and Sunday will see riders tackling the tough cross country course, which is often the most challenging phase. There is also a riding club and pony club competition on the Thursday and Friday, where amateur riders get to compete in the fantastic setting.

What to wear

England being England, the weather is never a certain thing. Blenheim is held near the end of summer, so weather can range from Heat Wave to Torrential Rain, sometimes within the weekend itself, so prepare for all eventualities! Lightweight clothes are a must though, whatever the weather. In heat waves, it will stop you from overheating, and if it decides to pour with rain, they can dry easily. There is nothing worse than having to walk a cross country course wearing wet jeans.

Wellies and a coat are also a good idea to have in the back of your car so that if it does decide to pour with rain, you can quickly change; even once it has stopped raining, the grass will be soaked and you may end up with the two-tone trouser effect. Chuck a sunhat and suncream in the back of the car as well, so if the sun does appear, you can be prepared for it, and avoid looking like a tomato.

Footwear wise, stilettos are really not recommended. Even in incredibly dry weather, your heels will end up disappearing into the ground. Flat, comfortable shoes that are easy to walk in are a good idea for when it is dry. Blisters are your worst enemy, and they tend to prey on anyone who thinks they can “get away with it”.

And last but not least, jewellery. I mean, it is held at a Palace and it wouldn't be the same without some stunning Sterling Silver Jewellery to match your outfit, whatever the weather. We'd recommend our fabulous Equestrian Collection. Dress to suit the surroundings, without worrying about your jewellery tarnishing. So how about putting on your snaffle necklace and earrings, and rocking the Trials in style. If you don't have one, fear not, just pop by our Equestrian Collection and treat yourself.

Our Hints and Tips

· Other than clothes, in the back of your car, you might want to also have a waterproof backed picnic blanket or even a couple of lightweight canvas chairs if you don’t feel like walking too far, although of course just far enough to come and visit us! Both of these will stop you from needing to sit on the wet grass when your legs give out.

· Don’t forget to drink plenty of liquids. It is a long day, and whether it is cold or hot, you will need to stay hydrated to avoid the paramedics having extra work. Unfortunately, alcohol doesn’t count…

· Sunday is the best day for shopping. Stall holders don’t really want to take all their stuff back, so you can grab some great bargains.

· If you are coming on Saturday, arrive in plenty of time as there can be very long queues, or even better, stay in nearby Hotels or B&Bs on Friday night, avoiding the incredibly early morning.

Where to stay

There are several really nice places to stay in the area including some Hotels in Woodstock. Our pick of the bunch is The Laurels Guesthouse. Alternatively, you can visit www.laterooms.com to see the brilliant selection of accommodation available. Or if you want the more luxurious approach, take a peek at some of the top quality hotels available at www.offpeakluxury.com.

Where is it?

Blenheim Palace Horse Trials is just outside Woodstock in Oxfordshire. It is very clearly signposted from the A34 and M40. They do not recommend using your SatNav though, as you may be directed to the wrong entrance. Follow the signs that are given. Visit Google Maps here to see where it is.

Weather

To get up to date weather information, visit the bbc website here.

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