Cheltenham Gold Cup-winning jockey Nico de Boinville competing in the High Jump © Lisa Harber
Each of the five days of the horse trials – Wednesday to Sunday – has a full programme of attractions. These include the Thames Valley Police demonstrating how their police horse are trained, the exceptionally popular High Jump competition, which reaches incredible heights, the thrilling dash and speed of the Mounted Games Association riders and the loveable JPL Shetland Pony Racing Display Team.
New to the SsangYong Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials are also Dan & Dandi – One Trick Horse. Dan is a former jump jockey who, when performing with Giffords Circus, discovered Dandi, a young pony, and taught him to perform a range of wonderful movements and tricks. Their bond and love for each other is unmistakable.
© Adam Fanthorpe
Abingdon and Witney College’s Dog Agility team are a firm favourite at Blenheim – as are the glamorous ladies of the side-saddle display team A Bit On The Side.
In the Learning Area, there are opportunities to meet exotic pets, meet top riders and trainers and hear from a variety of experts on both horsey and non-horsey subjects.
© Lisa Harber
Event Director Mandy Hervieu said:
“Our Attractions Arena is one of the most popular parts of the event, particularly for families, and draws big crowds. Our 2017 programme is exceptional – there is something for everyone.”
