Shows, Events & Clinics

The Arena UK Major Show Jumping Championships held on the 10th – 14th Sept were hailed a resounding success by competitors and spectators alike. Laura Renwick leapt in to the record books on Thursday in the evening performance, competing in the inaugural Puissance built by Di Boddy in Arena UK’s international arena. Over 13 riders contested the £6000 prize fund but only Laura, heartily encouraged by husband John, rode the brave grey Twister X for the final round, scaling the massive grey wall at 6’11”. Ellen Whitaker riding another grey, Ladina B, entertained a capacity crowd with more buck strides than canter as she negotiated each round of the ever increasing wall, finally ducking out at the last round. Friday night’s SsangYong Ride and Drive Challenge drew maximum crowds and caused great amusement as rider’s, having negotiated a course of show jumps, set off touring the SsangYong Kyron 4 x 4 through an obstacle penalty course of cones. The class proved so popular with entries a qualifying round was held in the SsangYong All-Weather Arena 2 to limit the contestants to 15 for the final challenge in the International Indoor Arena. Guy Williams showed his prowess at both riding and driving by winning the cash prize in a time that outpaced everyone else. Saturday’s Gala evening provided competition winners from both Horse Deals Magazine and the Grantham Journal with a night to remember. Met on site by legendary Ellen Whitaker, the winners were given a signed photograph of Ellen, kindly donated by Equipics and also presented with a SsangYong goody bag of Arena UK grooming kits and Horse Deals magazines. The good and the great were in full attendance with Jacky Wood, Michael Mac and Liz Edgar of the BSJA visiting along with local dignitaries the High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, Mr John Lockwood and his wife Judith, the Chairman of Kesteven Council, Mr Mike Exton and the Deputy Mayor of Grantham, Councillor Ray Wootten and his wife Linda. Over 70 invited guests attended the drinks reception and buffet prior to the Grand Prix including a delighted ex top international rider, Jean Germany, along with Michael and Sandra Donovan of Horse Deals Media (with their daughter Bridget still smiling having met her heroine Ellen Whitaker). Geoff Billington once again proved what a great ambassador for the sport he is conducting a course walk prior to the Grand Prix which proved, as ever, both entertaining and informative.

Horse Auction Second Saturday of each month

14th Miniature Horse of the Year Show

Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials 11-14 September 2008