BLAIR CASTLE LOOKING FORWARD TO HOSTING EUROPEAN YOUNG RIDER EVENTING CHAMPIONSHIPS

2007 is going to be an exciting year for the organisers of Blair Castle International Horse Trials as they host the best of Europe’s young event riders from August 23rd to 27th.

Expressing delight at being chosen by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) for this prestigious event, Event Director Sarah Phillips said, “The growth of Blair Castle Horse Trials in recent years has brought with it huge success and has had a major impact on the local economy. Hosting this championship will compliment the existing event and raise the profile to a higher level both nationally and internationally.”

The EYREC is expected to attract around 65 competitors from an estimated 16 European nations. Up to ten countries are expected to send a team with the remainder sending individual riders.

The competition, for riders between the ages of 18 and 21, is seen as an excellent progression from junior to senior level. Some of Britain’s foremost competitors were successful at Young Rider level, including Pippa Funnell who won in 1987. In 2005 Stirling’s Sarra Mayberry was a member of the gold medal winning British team and sixth individually. She reckoned riding in the EYREC gave her a valuable insight into competing on the international stage.

Another good thing about the championship taking place in Britain is that the home nation is entitled to enter up to 12 riders, which will give more young riders the incentive to aim for places in the British team.

Atholl Estates are committed to running the usual top class international three-, two- and one-star classes alongside the EYREC and acknowledge the four years of financial help and support from organisations such as EventScotland, SportScotland, Perth and Kinross Council and the Scottish Equestrian Association.

As everyone knows who has visited the Horse Trials in the past there is much more to this event than dressage, cross-country and showjumping. The Bruadar Country Fair over the weekend has taken on an identity of its own and has become a hugely popular tourist attraction in its own right. This year the spectacular displays include Jumpin’ Jake’s Farmer Ted Show, one of the UK’s leading quad bike stunt riders, and Skyhigh Falconry.

Highland and native ponies, hunters and show jumpers each have their day to shine in the magnificent grounds of Blair Castle, while the tented village just grows and grows each year along with the event’s reputation as a shopper’s paradise!

2007 is going to be a busy and eventful year for Sarah and her team at Atholl Estates. Preparations are already well under way to ensure a smoothly run professional and successful event.

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