Riders from 21 countries will compete at the Nunney International Horse Trials, giving the event a truly international flavour. Jamaica, Norway, Spain, Japan, Brazil, the USA, and Switzerland are among the nations represented at the event, taking place on 14-16 June at Southfield House, Whatley near Frome.
The event promises star power with riders like Zara Tindall, who will compete with several horses, including Showtime in the CCI-S 3*. William Fox-Pitt, the legendary Dorset-based rider, will also be in action. Recently retired from international competition, Fox-Pitt’s illustrious career includes two team silvers and a team bronze from five Olympics, six team golds and other accolades from nine European team participations, and he remains the only rider to have won five of the seven CCI5* three-day events worldwide.
Kitty King, known for being the first event rider to represent Great Britain at all European levels – pony, junior, young rider, and senior – will also be competing. King has previously claimed victories in the International classes at Nunney, winning the CIC2* with Ceylon LAN in 2014 and the CCI-S 3* with Cristal Fontaine in 2019.
Nunney Horse Trials is not only about top-level competition but also a vibrant social gathering for equestrian enthusiasts. Spectators can enjoy thrilling competitions while exploring trade stands offering a variety of equestrian products and services. The showjumping arena, located in front of Southfield House, serves as the focal point, with trade stands adding to the lively atmosphere. The highlight, however, is the cross-country course, where spectators can experience the excitement up close.
Bridget Parker, the event’s organiser and a gold medal-winning event rider at the 1972 Olympics, expressed her enthusiasm: “We are absolutely delighted with the quality of our entries and look forward to watching them compete over the three days. This event is a fantastic opportunity to see top professionals in action, and we encourage everyone to come along, watch the riders, and enjoy the diverse range of trade stands. We are also thrilled to host the juniors in the CCI-S J2* following the unfortunate cancellation of Belsay last month.”
The cross-country events for the CCI-S 2* and CCI-S 3* are scheduled for Sunday, starting at 10 am. There will also be cross-country action on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, along with showjumping in the main arena across all three days. Hopkins Estates and Kingsland Property Agents are kind sponsors of the International classes.
Entry to the event is £10 per car on Friday and £15 per car on Saturday and Sunday. Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome. For more details, visit www.nunneyhorsetrials.co.uk.
Release supplied by event.
