Thousands set to flock to horse trials at castle

1,800 competitors from around the globe help event take off at full gallop

Thousands of visitors are expected to descend on Blair Castle today as Scotland’s premier equestrian contest continues.

The Blair Castle International Horse Trials features more than 1,800 competitors from around the globe.

The second day of the contest featured showjumping and dressage.

Aside from the competition events, there is a wide range of side attractions in the castle grounds.

A pop-up shopping village has been created, 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 neurone disease.

Sarah Troughton, head trustee of Blair Castle, said: “Doddie Weir has long been an inspiration to so many – first as an outstanding sportsman, and now as he tackles his illness head on, motivated by a desire to help others.

“I hope that this year’s Land Rover Blair Castle International Horse Trials will raise awareness of the... foundation.”

Paul Bush, Visitscotland’s director of events, welcomed the economic boost the event will bring to Perthshire.

He said: “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.”

Kim Cessford. Clockwise from top left: Hannah Robinson, second in the Working Hunter Pony class, is watched by her Jack Russell Pippa as she pleats the mane of Sally, her New Forest pony; John and Netta Pitts enjoy an ice cream; a fashionable spectator at the event; feed for the horses after their day of competition. Pictures: