Famous faces at Nunney International Horse Trials

Some of the sport of eventing’s most famous names will be in action at Nunney International Horse Trials, which take place on June 15 – 17.

Entries are at capacity for the competition with nearly 900 horse and rider combinations in action over the three days. Add in the glorious setting of Southfield House near Frome and it looks set to be three un-missable days of top sporting action.
There is also the lure of an eclectic range of tradestands, located around the main showjumping arena, ranging from fine art to jewellery, and equestrian clothing to dog beds; and a popular eating corner, serving local food and beverages, that will satisfy every taste.
But with horses and riders central to the three days, spectators will have the chance to watch top riders in action. The event has attracted some notable names including William Fox-Pitt, New Zealand’s Andrew Nicholson and Tim Price, Alex Bragg, Tim Price, Ireland’s Padraig McCarthy and Tom McEwen. They are just a handful of the big names who will be in action. Also competing is Nunney Horse Trials committee member Sam Griffiths, the 2014 Badminton Horse Trials winner and Australian Olympian, who said: “It’s a beautifully run event in a stunning setting with well designed courses that flow really well. It’s a super day out for anyone with a love of horses.”
Cross country courses have been designed by Helen West who said: “They’ve been designed to encourage positive riding at all levels. I want the questions to be obvious to the horses, with nothing to trick them. Balance and correct training will be key elements across the board, as will the ability to react quickly. I am very much looking forward to seeing horse and rider combinations attack my tracks this year.”
The Duo-sponsored international CIC2* takes place on Sunday along with the intermediate, open intermediate and intermediate novice sections, and the novice regional final. On Friday BE100 and novice classes take place and on Saturday novice classes take centre stage.
Organiser Bridget Parker said: “We’ve had a super number of entries and we’re really looking forward to three fantastic days at this, the seventh running of Nunney International Horse Trials. The course is looking fantastic with a lush covering of grass and a good bit of rain in recent days. It really is a great opportunity to get out into the countryside, enjoy the fresh air and the horses.”
Entry to the event is free on Friday and £12 per car on Saturday and Sunday.
The cross country for the CIC2* and intermediate classes is scheduled for Sunday starting at 10am, but there is action over the fixed fences on Friday, Saturday and Sunday with showjumping in the main arena in front of the house over all three days too. Visit www.nunneyhorsetrials.co.uk for more details.