The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Thousands to attend Blair Atholl horse trials.
BLAIR ATHOLL: International Horse Trials to take place at Blair Castle and more than 45,000 spectators expected to go along for the ride
Blair Castle is the perfect setting for this prestigious event, with both the venue and the horse trials steeped in history. ANDREW BRUCE WOOTON, GENERAL MANAGER AT ATHOLL ESTATES
Thousands of people are expected to arrive in Blair Atholl later this month for an international equestrian event. Organisers of the International Horse Trials at Blair Castle expect more than 45,000 people from across the globe to turn out to watch almost 2,000 riders compete. Highlights of the four-day event between August 23 and 26 include cross county races, show jumping, the Highland pony show and Pony Club mounted games, ending with the finale of the masters series and the prizegiving. Those looking for a break from the competition action can enjoy Bruadar Country Fair, being held on the estate at the same time as the trials, which will feature pig racing, vintage tractors and the Quack Commandos – sheepdogs guiding ducks around an obstacle course.
Andrew Bruce Wooton, general manager at Atholl Estates, said: “The Blair Castle International Horse Trials always prove to be an incredible few days, with a wealth of local and international visitors coming together to cheer on more than 1,800 talented equestrians. “Blair Castle is the perfect setting for this prestigious event, with both the venue and the horse trials steeped in history. “The perfect summer day out for families and individuals alike, we look forward to welcoming both participants and visitors to the estate and would like to wish everyone taking part the best of luck.” A pop-up shopping village will also be created in the historic grounds, offering everything from home accessories to clothing and drinks. All proceeds of a whisky tasting at the trials will be donated to the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, set up by Scottish rugby legend Doddie Weir to support research into motor neuron disease. Paul Bush, Visit Scotland’s director of events, welcomed the economic boost the event will bring to Perthshire. “The 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 shores. “With Blair Castle providing the perfect stage for Scotland’s biggest equestrian event, the packed programme of events and activities alongside the trials makes for a great day out.”