The equine classes will have an additional feature at next month’s Countryside Live as for the first time the popular event will feature qualifiers for the Olympia Heritage Mountain and Moorland ridden classes. These will provide competitors with their last chance to qualify before Olympia in December so bumper entries are expected across these classes which showcase the best of British native ponies under saddle.
And there’s the chance for up and coming young riders to star as the popular Search for a Talented Young Show Jumper with Graham and Tina Fletcher will again take place at the event, with the age limit being lowered from 14 years to 10 years.
Countryside Live takes place at the Great Yorkshire Showground, Harrogate on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 October and since equine classes were first introduced in 2008, entries have grown year on year.
Chief Steward, Linda Brudenell commented: "Countryside Live has a very special appeal and is very much aimed at encouraging riders to "have a go." Classes are open to all; of course we want to attract experienced riders, but it’s also a chance for those who are maybe just starting out to get a feel for the "big time". Each class carries a prize for the highest placed Yorkshire-based competitor."
The Mountain and Moorland classes take place on Saturday 22 October starting at 8.30 am in the Great Yorkshire Show Main Ring whilst the Championship will move indoors to the Equine Hall at 3.00 pm. The established pony classes take place in the Equine Hall over the two days. Always popular with the crowds, these range from the Tiny Tots Working Hunter Pony section and Fancy Dress competition on Saturday to classes for ridden Coloured Horse and Ponies on Sunday.
In addition, equestrian experts Graham and Tina Fletcher (who won the Hickstead Derby this year) will again be searching for a rising young show jumping star. Young hopefuls will be given instruction and then take part in displays in the indoor arena. The eventual winner will receive a cash prize and the opportunity to go to the Fletcher’s yard in Oxfordshire for instruction and gaining an insight into life at a top show jumping yard.
Elsewhere around the event, there are classes for cattle and sheep, try archery, see The Sheep Show, dog agility demonstrations, sheepdog displays and Ben Potter will again bring his birds of prey. There’s also the chance to have a go in the Diggerland Experience. And with youngsters in mind, there’s The Story Barn and Farm Yard and the Country Crafts Pavilion with everything from badge making to bread making to willow weaving.
