International Horse Trials and Country Fair

Blair Castle, Atholl Estates, Blair Atholl, August 24-27

Excitement is building for Scotland’s leading equestrian event, held annually in the grounds of fairytale Blair Castle.

With a record number of horses and ponies due to compete across a raft of classes – from international eventing to showing, showjumping and Pony Club Games – there will be plenty to enjoy.

The calibre of competitors at this year’s Trials is exceptional, and includes British number one Oliver Townend, the legendary Sir Mark Todd and a double handful of Olympians, among them Christopher Burton, Yoshi Oiwa and Ludwig Svennerstall.

British riders Sarah “Cutty” Cohen, Gemma Tattersall, Emily King and Fifebased Wills Oakden are also likely to make a strong bid for the prize money, while Nini French – sister of British team rider Piggy – shouldn’t be overlooked.

All cross country courses have undergone changes since last year, and there are some exciting new fences.

Event director and course designer Alec Lochore said: “I want riders to be forward thinking and positive, with combinations being both educated and prepared towards their next level.

“Above all, I want horses and riders to enjoy themselves.”

The main action kicks off on Thursday when the Hunter and Highland pony shows and arena eventing take place, along with international dressage.

British Showjumping opens Friday’s action, which also hosts more dressage and the National Pony Society Scotland Finals.

Spectators are spoilt for choice at the weekend – dressage, showjumping and cross country, the hugely competitive Pony Club Games plus the Bruadar Country Fair demonstrations will provide entertainment from 8.30am until late afternoon.

The Fair is a major attraction, providing an array of entertainment for those with interests other than equestrianism.

On display this year will be flyball, gundog and falconry demonstrations, terrier racing, vintage tractors, the Bow Wow Circus and Scotland’s equestrian stunt team, Riders of the Storm.

Also over the weekend, Blair Castle International’s official charity, Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance, will be hosting its abseil challenge.

Adventurers are invited to drop nearly 100ft from the Castle’s 13th Century tower, while raising money for this essential life-saving service.

Famous for its parties, Blair will host its array of Scottish hospitality each evening of the event, with charity malt whisky tasting, a ceilidh, live band and disco as well as the onsite bar where friends can meet up to discuss the day’s events.

As ever, the food hall will be bursting with deliciousness.

Picture: Julia Shearwood. Polly Stockton performs with her horse in front of Blair Castle.