Thousands to attend trials
Thousands have descended on Blair Castle for the annual international horse trials.
Over 45,000 people are expected to make their way to the Land Rover Blair Castle International Horse Trials, which began yesterday (Thursday, August 22) and runs until Sunday, August 25.
Around 1600 horses will be competing in the competitions, including showjumping, cross country, the Highland Pony Show and the Pony Club mounted games.
There will also be the Scottish Grassroots Eventing Festival to enjoy.
With news the British Open Champions, Ben Hobday and Shadow Man II are confirmed to attend to contest the top level class, there is even more excitement for this year’s trials.
NickyTownshend, assistant director of the Land Rover Blair Castle International Horse Trials, said:“The Land Rover Blair Castle International Horse Trials is a key fixture in our annual calendar of events, helping drive Scotland’s visitor economy by attracting equestrian fans from across the world to our shoes.
“With Blair Castle providing the perfect stage The horse trials are at Blair Castle
for Scotland’s biggest equestrian event, the packed programme of events and activities alongside the trials makes for a great day out.”
Aside from the horses and their riders, there will also be the popular country fair to enjoy, as well as children’s entertainment.
In the food hall this year there are over 220 trade stands offering a range of produce, including fine art,
fudge, jewellery and gin.
Persie Gin are this year’s drinks sponsors and are available in the food hall for sampling.
All proceeds from the charity gin tasting, which takes place tonight (Friday, August 22) will be given to Riding for the Disabled Scotland, the horse trials’ chosen charity for the year.
Julia Sim, head of sales and marketing at Blair Castle and Atholl Estates, said:“The Land Rover Blair Castle International Horse Trials is one of the most exciting times of the year for us. The castle is the perfect backdrop for the event and this year we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the horse trials taking place here.”
Tickets cost from £12 and can be bought on the day at the gates or by visiting www. blairhorsetrials.co.uk. Children under the age of 12 go free.