A NATIONAL equestrian event bringing together hundreds of school and riding club competitors from across the UK is returning to Princethorpe College in May.
The school will host the National Schools and Riding Clubs Two-Day Event – the only event of its kind in the UK, which attracts up to 300 riders each year.
Now in its 22nd year, this year’s event includes a new 70cm class to open it up to a wider field of competitors, with a new spectator area introduced to satisfy growing demand.
Bud Jackson, chair of organisers Stoneleigh Riding Club, said: “There was a real appetite for last year’s event as it was the first since 2019 to open to public and spectators due to the pandemic. We wanted to build on that for this year by opening a new 70cm class and enhancing the offering to spectators.
“This is a key date in the equine calendar for so many school and riding clubs across the country, and this year’s event is already shaping up to be the best one yet.”
The ‘long format’ event encompasses dressage and show-jumping on day one, with roads and tracks, steeplechase and cross-country disciplines running on day two.
The 70cm competitors will have a shortened roads and tracks course which excludes the steeplechase, before moving onto a unique cross-country course.
As well as the new 70cm class, it is also open to 80cm, 90cm and 100cm disciplines.
Princethorpe Foundation Assistant Head Alex Darkes said: “Having been involved for many years, we have been delighted to host this event on the Princethorpe estate since 2015.
“Particularly exciting this year is the addition of the 70cm class, which means that we will make the event accessible to a wider range of riders, who like others, will come back year after year.”
The event takes place on May 27 and 28 from 8.30am to 6.30pm. Admission for spectators is free.
Visit www.stoneleighridingclub.com for more information, or to enter.
