Little Downham (1) not so little

 

 

An Eventful Life will be filming all competitors on cross country at

Little Downham (1) - find out more here

 

Little Downham Horse Trials prepares to welcome a number of the world’s best riders this weekend.  The smallest site, running the widest number of courses, is set to welcome 4 of the world’s top 10 ranked event riders as part of an entry of over 850.

“We’re delighted to welcome so many of the world’s best riders to Little Downham yet again.  Andrew Nicholson has been a regular winner of our Advanced with 4 wins to his name already.  It is a great opportunity for local spectators to watch these competitive riders across the five levels.” Tina Ure, event organiser.

World number 4, Gemma Tattersall returns with Billy Senora, Billy Shania and Chillis Gem all challenging for the Childeric Saddles Open Intermediate, while Andrew Nicholson brings forward first time Advanced ride Zacarias as he looks to make it 6 Advanced wins.

Only Izzy Taylor and Mark Kyle have managed to complete the Little Downham Advanced track within the optimum time, both have done it twice.  With neither Izzy or Mark competing this weekend will anyone come close?  The 2016 Advanced winner Will Furlong also returns to the Little Downham Advanced, this time riding Adele 97.  Jemilla, ridden by Emilie Chandler could also be one to watch in Friday’s Advanced.  The experienced mare finished 3rd here in 2014 with Mark Kyle, can Emilie go one better?

As a new development for the June event Little Downham are delighted to welcome Lycetts Insurance Brokers on board as new sponsors.  The Lycetts team will be onsite for the duration of the event and will be located in the centre of the cross country course, offering owners, riders and spectators free hospitality with a view of the action.

Riders attending the event this weekend will see a number of course developments including the new Delabond Dip.

“We were trying to create a combination to test horse and riders ability to control speed, power and straightness.  The placement of the fences around the dip reflects the degree of difficulty at each level.  Riders will need to ensure they use the turn to the fence to make sure they have sufficient power and that the horse is truly between leg and hand.”  Tina Ure, course designer.

Childeric Saddles will once again return as title sponsors for the 2018 season, along with the Protexin Equine Premium Grassroots Accumulator with it’s £1500 prize fun for BE90 and BE100 competitors.