Some of the country’s most promising young showjumping horses will take centre stage at Hickstead next week, with British titles, more than £80,000 in prize money and bonuses, and places at the FEI World Breeding Championship for Young Horses at stake.
The Al Shira’aa British Young Horse Championships return to the West Sussex showground from 13-16 August, bringing together four-, five-, six- and seven-year-old horses for four days of competition.
The Championships host the British qualifiers for the FEI World Breeding Championship for Young Horses in Lanaken, Belgium, giving combinations the opportunity to earn their place on the international stage.
There is also an added incentive for British breeding. British Showjumping will provide prizes for the breeders of the five highest-placed British-bred horses in each final, while bonuses are available for horses that jump clear throughout the week.
A strong field of established riders is expected, including several combinations returning to Hickstead following successful appearances at July’s Agria Royal International Horse Show.
Al Shira’aa King George V Gold Cup winner Robert Whitaker is among those due to compete, alongside JCL Insurance Brokers Queen Elizabeth II Cup winner Holly Smith and Ashby Underwriting Eventers’ Challenge victor Gemma Stevens.
They will be joined by Laura Renwick, Harriet Biddick, William Funnell, Guy Williams, Amy Inglis, William Fletcher, Robert Murphy, William Rekert, Rachel Proudley and Nicole Pavitt.
Irish riders Shane Breen and David Simpson are also among the names expected to compete.
While the young horses are at the heart of the four-day fixture, there will also be opportunities for more experienced horses, with open classes culminating in the 1.30m and 1.40m Grands Prix.
All competition will take place across Hickstead’s all-weather arenas.
Admission and parking for spectators are free throughout the Al Shira’aa British Young Horse Championships.
Feature image: William Rekert competing at last year’s Al Shira’aa British Young Horse Championships (c) Boots and Hooves Photography
