Tuesday 10th of June 2025
Eventing

New galloping avenue added Pontispool Horse Trials

Pontispool Equine Sport’s Centre will be adding a touch of grandeur to its affiliated horse trials which take place this weekend on September 11 and 12 with a tree-lined avenue a new addition to the course.

Alex Bragg Zagreb OI winners

Alex Bragg Zagreb OI winners

Riders will gallop along a wide track that has been cut through a small wooded area, adding more interest to the course.

Organiser Richard Mitford-Slade said:

“We are always looking at ways we can innovate and improve the cross country courses and this new avenue will create more flow as riders make their way around. We’ve also built a new ditch and rail combination too. We have also revamped the original water complex so there are now three water jumps on the course.”

The course is designed by Eric Winter and is regarded as a good starting point for horses and riders stepping up a level. The competition is a qualifier for the Mitsubishi Motors Cup which takes place on Badminton’s hallowed turf next May. It also hosts a BE90 regional final.

Held over two days, Monday’s competition typically attracts high profile riders and this year is no exception with William Fox-Pitt, Sir Mark Todd, Zara Phillips, Sam Griffiths and Tim and Jonelle Price among the competitors.

As well as professional riders, competitors from across the Westcountry will also be converging on the popular venue. 

For the first time Live Scoring will be available at the event and an owners’ tent will also be available. Richard said:

“We introduced this at last year’s horse trials and it has proved really popular. Anyone with a horse competing is welcome to pop in for a cup of tea and a sit down. We feel strongly that owners are the future of the sport and it’s just a small way of thanking them for supporting Pontispool.” 

The action gets underway on Sunday with gates open to spectators from 9am. The cost is £10 per car, all if which is donated to a local charity. Refreshments are available as well as a number of tradestands.

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