Thursday 19th September - Sunday 22nd September 2024 - stand A1145
The Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials are now firmly established in the eventing calendar. They have been run since 1990, attracting the world's best riders and the thousands of spectators who come each year to watch the event.
Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials are known as a '3-day event', even though the actual event is run over nearly 5 days! This is because the event is made up of three phases: Dressage, Cross Country and Show Jumping.
The event starts on the Wednesday afternoon with the first official trot up by the competitors in front of the Ground Jury Judges and the Veterinary Commission. This is followed by 2 days of dressage (Thursday and Friday), and then Cross Country and Show Jumping over the weekend.
Other Activities. In addition to the eventing action there are lots of other activities. These include the Dodson & Horrell sponsored Pony Club and Riding Clubs Team Competitions, the Tri Zone sponsored Eventer Challenge, and many equine and other displays in the Blenheim Arena.
There are also other attractions for all the family, including children's play areas, a food and drink hall, sports and classic car displays, and all the shops.
What to wear
England being England, the weather is never a certain thing. Despite being in the middle of summer, Blenheim 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. However, if you are planning on having breakfast in the members Enclosure you will need to dress smartly.
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. Blenheim being Blenheim, 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. Whether you are planning on visiting the members tent or not, this gorgeous collection is absolutely perfect. 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 nearby on Friday night, avoiding the incredibly early morning.
Where is it?
Just outside Oxford this event is well signposted and easy to get to. The Postcode for your sat nav is OX20 1PP. For more info and to purchase tickets go to: bpiht.co.uk/
