It’s been a long, cold, wet winter but spring is now firmly with us and the warmer weather signifies the build up to Yorkshire’s largest equestrian event, the Equi-Trek Bramham International Horse Trials. Running 7 – 10 May, 2018 marks the event’s 45th anniversary and it promises to be a bumper year! Four days of top flight equine action, family fun, retail therapy, amazing food and adventure for all.
At the heart of the four days are the eventing competitions which are the ultimate test of courage, skill and ability of horse and rider. The showcase class is the Equi-Trek CCI3*the where the world’s top riders and horses will be hoping to secure their share of the £18,500 prize pot while the British Horse Feeds CCIu25 is a huge test for the younger generation on their way to stardom. The British Equestrian Trade Association CIC3* completes the trio and again will feature some great names looking for glory.
It’s World Championship year so riders from all over the globe will be in Britain to prepare and catch the selectors’ eye and earn a trip to the USA in September. Bramham always attracts an international entry from countries like France, Ireland, Germany, New Zealand, Australia and of course last year’s winner was from Japan. Top British names like Yorkshire’s own Nicola Wilson and William Fox-Pitt, dubbed ‘Mr Bramham’ as he’s won seven times at the venue, are regular entries.
On top of this, there’s top-flight British Showjumping classes where you can watch some great names in action, show hunters, Dubarry Young Event Horse qualifiers, young stock showing and Pony Club activities – the two rings in the tradestand area are never empty!
The 135 strong tradestand village is a shoppers delight – for the equestrian diva, country rose or city dweller alike – there’s something for everyone. The 2018 nominated charity St Gemma’s Hospice will be there fundraising for their Leeds operation. They provide vital end of life care and support to patients’ families when it’s most needed and they require £9m annually to operate so make sure you stop by to learn more about their inspirational work and throw your spare change in their buckets.
If food is your thing, welcome to Bramham! We have a food hall with plenty of local and farm products where sampling is positively encouraged plus there’s every type of food outlet you can imagine when hunger strikes. There’s also licensed establishments on site where you can get a proper pint, flute of prosecco or jug of Pimms and everything in between. You could of course pack your own, choose an idyllic spot in one of the best parks in the country and enjoy a picnic!
The Action and Adventure Zone is a great distraction from the horses (if one’s required) – adrenaline seekers will be at home here, plus there’s a family zone for the kids. Your four legged canine friend is welcome as long as there’s someone responsible at the end of the lead and any deposits are cleared up. The Tailwaggers Club will be putting on activities over the weekend and Samsalin Dog Rescue will be operating a dog crèche so you can park Fido while you shop.
Do you like a bit of VIP treatment? Love getting an exclusive? Well, there’s a new, limited ticket on offer this year to get your Bramham experience off to a fabulous start. On Wednesday 6 June, you’ll have a guided course walk with David Evans who builds the fences under designer Ian Stark (he’ll be building at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics), then a scrumptious afternoon tea in the historic Gallery in the main house followed by a VIP view of the first horse inspection from the house side. A great afternoon for any fan, all for just £100, but hurry these tickets are limited and selling fast.
Perhaps you like to roll your sleeves up and be at the heart of the action. Then a camping ticket could be just your thing! Enjoy a four day pass and Bramham welcome caravans, tents, horse boxes – if you can sleep in it, you’re welcome to bring it! You’ll be on site so won’t miss a minute of the action and there’s toilet and shower facilities so you’re well equipped. Camping is a popular choice and usually sells out so get your tickets secured today!
Upgrading your ticket to include the prestigious members’ enclosure is a great way to give your Bramham trip a bit of luxury. Exclusive bistro, members’ bar, ring side seating, which includes dressage commentary on Thursday and Friday, and members’ only smart toilets are all at your disposal. Prices start at just £12 plus you’ll need a general admission ticket and car pass.
General admission tickets start at £12 if you book ahead – under 12s go free with a paying adult. Advanced booking is recommended as there’s some great discounts to be had but hurry, the box office closes on 3 June. You can book on line at www.bramham-horse.co.uk where it’s quick, easy and secure. The organising team has been joined by Emily Adshead as Event Assistant and she, and others are happy to help with any questions on 01993 846005.
