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Will Whittaker at Al Shiraa Bolesworth Young Horse Show 2023
2023 Al Shira’aa Bolesworth Young Horse Championships Round-Up 1024 683 Daniel Shires

2023 Al Shira’aa Bolesworth Young Horse Championships Round-Up

Five days of fantastic equestrian sport were served up at the 2023 Al Shira’aa Bolesworth Young Horse Championships from 16 – 20 August at Bolesworth Castle, Cheshire.

4yo Final Sponsored by Ashdale Sports Horses
59 four-year-olds qualified for the final by jumping a clear in one of the two qualifiers.  25 horses jumped clear in round one of the final, which put them through to a style and performance round judged by William and Pippa Funnell. Marks were awarded for technique, rideability and general x-factor, with points deducted for fences down.

Local Rider Tony French took the honours with his own and Danielle Ryder’s Urban Legend Z. The Untouchable 27 x Nabab De Reve Gelding was bred by Willem Van Hoof, and to William and Pippa looked just the type you could imagine cantering into a world class ring in the future. 18 horses and riders shared the double clear £2000 bonus. Runner-up spot was taken by the striking stallion High Offley The Colour of Money (By Fernando), owned and bred by Pat Morris from the High Offley stud.  Taking third place was Rachel Proudley with the Impressive VDL stallion Ohorn Van De Renvillehoeve.

5yo Final Sponsored by Dallamires Stables
The 5yo classes were dominated by Joe Trunkfield who won the second qualifier on Sing Z, before finishing as the overall champion on the Copycat Z x Contact VD Heffinck gelding (owned by Joe). The top British-bred award went to third placed Lucy Townley and Billy At Last, bred by Donal Barnwell, and the £4000 triple clear bonus was shared by Joe Trunkfield with Sing Z, Nicole Lockhead Anderson with Quanthago PS, Angel Tough with Nicole IV, James Ingham with Vandro B, plus Ben Bick with Top Star C.

6yo Final Sponsored by Windmill Farm Estate
The 6yo classes were dominated by Ben Bick from start to finish! The first qualifier saw him win with Michelob, who qualified for Lanaken as a five-year-old last year.  He took the top spot in qualifier 2 with Rhodiamant Roxanne and ended up taking the 6yo Final with NFS Corluga. Owned and bred by John Renwick, NFS Corluga was also the top British-bred, by Cornet Obolensky out of Laura’s top mare Beluga (Heartbreaker). The £4000 triple clear bonus was shared between Ben Bick (with NFS Corluga) and Joe Trunkfield with Verdettes Cicero.

7yo Final Sponsored by Al Shira’aa
The 7yo classes saw world class jumping throughout the week. Ben Bick took another victory in the first qualifier with Diamonds Diabolo Z, and Nicole Pavitt took the lead in qualifier 2 with Q-Pleasure Van Seven Oaks. However, it was Will Whitaker with Niel Fiddes’ Lancaster that took the final with the fastest of three double clears in the final jump off. Lancaster is by Tangelo Van Zuuthoeve and bred by The Vanderbosch family. The only combination to jump consistent clear rounds throughout the show, taking the Triple Clear round bonus was Serena Kullich on her own British-bred Benfield’s Victory, by Billy Congo, and bred by Daren Ward.

EvetDrug CSI 2* Grand Prix
60 combinations qualified for yesterday’s 1.45m LR Grand Prix.  Raf Suarez continued a fantastic week that resulted in four clears: Chris Smith and Messarado Blue, 2022’s winners Carmen Edwards and Happy Valerie, Jennifer Billington and Flipper Darco UK Z, plus Mark Edwards and Flying Tinker II, followed by three clears with time penalties: Billy Twomey Diego Del Caribe, John Whitaker and new ride Donna Pascale, plus Chloe Winchester & Jupiter. The rest of the 15 that came forward to the jump-off brought forward four faults, other than Lorraine Lock and Artisan with five.

A very fast jump off finished with Mark Edwards last to go and taking the podium with his homebred Flying Tinker II, now owned by Marlene Edwards. Jennifer Billington jumped a super clear round to finish a close second, with Billy Towmey third, finishing on his single time penalty from round one, Chloe Winchester in fourth, finishing on two time penalties just quicker than fifth-placed John Whitaker, who also finished on his two time penalties carried forward from the first round. Quickest of the four faulters from round one was Oliver Fletcher who scored the fastest round of the class and finished 6th.

Nina Barbour, Managing Director of Bolesworth said: “We’d like to give a huge thank you to the Al Shira’aa team for their support during the week. The team had some great rounds and results, including an impressive first round in the 4yo final by Jason Fitzpatrick and Al Shira’aa-owned stallion King Leon Z.

“We would like to extend huge congratulations to Mikey Pender and Chacco Bay,who finished 3rd in the 1.50m jump-off on Sunday at the Valkenswaard Global Champions Tour.  This result is a huge testament to the programme of breeding and production that they have established in the UK.”

Full results for the entire week can be found at www.equipe.com. For more information about future events at Bolesworth, visit www.bolesworth.com.

Bolesworth Elite Auction presented by Gallagher
Friday 18th August saw 23 lots come forward including two embryos. The sale was a huge success for British Breeders, with 19 lots selling on the night.

The top price foal, JZ Coralina C (a filly by Cornet Obolensky out of world class mare Arera C) was purchased live at the auction, the hammer dropping at £47,000. Three British-bred horses scored the three next highest prices; Tornado De Wellbury (Colt – Toulon x Cento – £25,000), Just Call Me Love (Filly – Heartbreaker x Indoctro – £25,000) and Cristo De Wellbury (Colt – Cornet Obolensky x Baloubet Du Rouet – £26,000).

For more information about Bolesworth Elite Auctions, visit www.boleswortheliteauctions.com.

We now look forward to the 2024 Al Shira’aa Horse Show, taking place in Al Ain from January 9 to 14. This will be the seventh edition of the show, which under the vision, patronage and guidance of HH SSheikha Fatima Bint Hazza Bin Zayed Al Nahyan; Honorary President, the event has grown from strength to strength showcasing the best horses and riders from all over the globe. For more information visit www.alshiraahorseshow.com.

Bolesworth Elite Foal Auction Set to Break Underbidders Hearts This Friday! 1024 683 Daniel Shires

Bolesworth Elite Foal Auction Set to Break Underbidders Hearts This Friday!

An exclusive collection of elite foals and implanted embryos from black-type dams will be auctioned at Bolesworth this Friday 18 August at 8.30pm.

The Bolesworth Elite Foal Auction presented by Gallagher takes place during the Al Shira’aa Bolesworth Young Horse Championships, taking place at the historic Cheshire castle from 16 – 20 August.

The auction will commence with two charity lots offering semen for Ecclestone Z and Chacco Bay, in aid of Nature’s Safe, the charity masterminded by Tullis Matson.  These will be followed by two implanted embryos and 22 foals, with the foals available to view online now or in-person at the show from 17 August. An official preview will take place in the Bolesworth International Arena on Thursday evening at approx. 8.30pm, available to watch live on ClipMyHorse.tv.

Nina Barbour, Managing Director of Bolesworth said: “It’s an absolute privilege for the Bolesworth team and I to be showcasing this exclusive collection of foals and embryos out of black-type dams, destined for the top of equestrian sport.

“Not only are these foals out of seriously well-related dams, many of whom have competed at the highest level of sport, we have some of the best sires ever represented in this collection.

“It’s a Bolesworth first to be presenting a direct Heartbreaker foal, together with legends Chacco Blue, Diamant De Semilly, Cornet Obolensky, Aganix De Seigneur, and the late Conthargos represented to name a few.”

To view the collection and to register to bid online, visit www.boleswortheliteauctions.com

The five-day Al Shira’aa Bolesworth International Horse Championship is free* to attend and showcase’s the UK’s rising talent as they compete for their place at the World Breeding Championships at Lanaken, Belgium in September. Top international names such John Whitaker, William & Pippa Funnell, Billy Twomey and others will be competing in international showjumping, with 1.45m Grand Prix on Sunday afternoon.

There’ll also be equestrian and lifestyle shopping, food, drink, kids activities and a dog zone with have a go agility.

*Please note a parking charge applies. Buy online ahead of the event for just £5 plus fees, or £10 on the gate.Find out more at www.bolesworthyounghorse.com

Five Days of Free Equestrian Sport at the Al Shira’aa Bolesworth Young Horse Championships 1024 512 Daniel Shires

Five Days of Free Equestrian Sport at the Al Shira’aa Bolesworth Young Horse Championships

Horse-lovers are invited to enjoy five days of world class showjumping with free general admission at Bolesworth this summer.

Taking place from 16 – 20 August near Chester, the Al Shira’aa Bolesworth Young Horse Championships incorporate the Official British Showjumping Qualifiers for the World Breeding Championships in Lanaken, Belgium.

The event is set to attract the UK’s best young horse talent from across the country, ranging from 4yos to 7yos; they will run alongside International Showjumping at CSI1 &2* level, with feature classes including the Celebrity Ride & Drive on Saturday night and the CSI 2* 1.45m Grand Prix on Sunday afternoon.

In addition to the sport, there’ll be a full schedule of ringside VIP Hospitality overlooking the Main International Arena, a range of equestrian and lifestyle shops, together with premium food and drink outlets. Over the weekend, Farndon Dog Training will be offering have-a-go dog agility and family dog shows, plus a range of kid’s activities including fun fair rides aimed at young children.

The UAE tour incorporating the Al Shira’aa Horse Show earlier in 2023 was very successful for Al Shira’aa. The UAE team enjoyed the huge achievement of qualifying for the 2024 Paris Olympics, helped by the contribution of up-and-coming Al Shira’aa Team members Abdulla Al Marri and Omar Al Marzouqi, who have had great success at this show in the past.

HH Sheikha Fatima Bint Hazza Al Nahyan, Chairwoman on the Board of Directors of the Fatima bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy, The Fatima Bint Hazza Cultural Foundation and Honorary President of the Al Shira’aa Horse Show said: “Bolesworth and Al Shira’aa share synonymous values and vision when it comes to providing a world class event for owners, riders, horses and spectators. Being able to offer a qualifier for Lanaken and a bonus for British-bred horses is what makes this show so unique.

“I wish everyone the very best in your preparations for the greatest young horse event of the year.”

Samantha Kettle, Event Director of the Al Shira’aa Horse Show said: “Being a partner of Bolesworth is great for so many reasons, we have become a close-knit family and bounce off each other for ideas. The team at Bolesworth always put on a fantastic show for the horses, the sport and for the fun factor. We are very proud to support the best show in the United Kingdom, without this venue and the opportunity to qualify for Lanaken for British breeders we would be at a huge loss.

“This year we are excited to be promoting the CSI4*-W Al Shira’aa Horse Show which takes place in January 2024 and has had great success for the British over the years. Joe Whitaker was crowned our Longines Grand Prix winner in 2023 and we look forward to welcoming more riders from the UK.”

The 2022 CSI 2* Grand Prix saw local talent Carmen Edwards take the honours in an emotional win with home-produced Happy Valerie. This year’s winner will receive the opportunity to compete at the Al Shira’aa Horse Show in January 2024 with three horses, after Sheikha Fatima kindly offered to fly out a pallet of three horses for the winner of the Grand Prix, for what will truly be an opportunity of a lifetime to compete at these prestigious shows in Abu Dhabi.

Nina Barbour, Bolesworth Managing Director, said: “We’re delighted to be welcoming the Al Shira’aa team back to Bolesworth. We have a long-standing partnership, which aligns our values and standards, connecting our world class equestrian events together, partnering with the Abu Dhabi Horse show that takes place in January as part of the UAE tour. We also welcome all our equestrian fans to enjoy free admission to celebrate the sport against the stunning backdrop of Bolesworth Castle.”

Another feature will be the Bolesworth Elite Foal Auction presented by Gallagher, with official finance partner IFX Payments, taking place at 8.45pm on Friday 18 August. The auction will be a hybrid, accepting both live and online bids featuring an exclusive collection of foals from black-type dams that have been carefully selected by an expert panel, and is set to be the best yet. Sires include Chacco Blue, Heartbreaker, Diarado, Cornet Obolensky, Aganix, Conthargos and Diamant de Semilly, with direct dams including 1.60m performers Wild Rose, Parvati de Breve, Franka Trichta, and Arera C.

For more information about the Al Shira’aa Bolesworth Young Horse Championship, visit www.bolesworthyounghorse.com. For information about the auction, visit www.boleswortheliteauctions.com.

AXFest 3 days & 2 nights of adrenaline-fuelled entertainment
The Arenacross Festival Races to Bolesworth This Summer 1024 580 Daniel Shires

The Arenacross Festival Races to Bolesworth This Summer

Europe’s most successful indoor motocross series, The Arenacross Tour, is set to head outdoors this summer for an amazing festival of racing, live music, freestyle motocross, shops, bars, family fun and so much more!

The Arenacross Festival (AXFest) races into the spectacular surroundings of Bolesworth Castle, Cheshire from September 15 – 17 for an unforgettable late summer weekend.

Motocross will take over the venue’s spectacular International Arena for three days and two nights of adrenaline-fueled entertainment. Traditionally known for hosting world-class equestrian, visitors to Bolesworth later this summer will be instead treated to Arenacross’ unparalleled brand of racing and freestyle action, supported by a host of live bands and DJs like never seen before in the sport.

Arenacross will construct a purpose-built track using 5,000 tons of dirt within the natural bowl of the International Arena, creating a unique, unparalleled theatre of motocross action.

Race fans and newcomers alike can look forward to racing from a host of classes, from top professionals to six-year-olds, plus Arenacross’ freestyle team will be on hand to wow visitors with their gravity-defying stunts throughout.

Outside the arena, there’ll be an entire festival to explore, with plenty of places to eat and drink, family fun activities, live music, camping, live shows, bike experiences and more.

Arenacross promotor Matt Bates said: “Following the amazing sell-out Arenacross British Championship earlier this year, the feedback we received was people wanted more. Whilst the Arenacross tour will return in 2024, we decided to do something completely new for our amazing fans.

“AXFest is everything you’d expect from Arenacross… but outside and a whole lot more! Bolesworth is renowned in the world of equestrian for putting on some of the greatest horse shows, which is why we can’t wait to bring a different kind of horse power to the International Arena this summer together with live music, camping, shops, bars and plenty of have-a-go experiences.

“As for the race classes, we’re going all out and giving every single class the sport has to offer the opportunity to race and qualify through to the hugely successful indoor 2024 AX tour.”

Nina Barbour, Managing Director of Bolesworth said: “We can’t wait to welcome the New Arenacross festival to Bolesworth later this summer. It’s a different kind of horsepower than we’re used to, but we can’t wait to bring something really special to our existing AX fans and introducing our Bolesworth audience to this adrenaline fuelled event for the whole family!”

Find out more at www.bolesworth.com/axfest.

Bolesworth International 2023 Round-Up 1024 683 Graham Austin

Bolesworth International 2023 Round-Up

After months of preparation, the sun shone, and the clock chimed 8 am for the opening of the all-new Bolesworth International.

From June 14 to 18, we served up five days of amazing world-class sport, entertainment, family fun, live music and more to over 17,000 people! 

The opening day started spectacularly

Alex Bragg set off at an unbeatable pace with experienced campaigner Quindiva expertly navigating the tricky JCL Insurance Brokers Eventing Grand Prix course, set by Andrew Heffernan, taking place in the Main International Arena.

Gemma Stevens riding Santiago Bay secured the second place prize, with New Zealand’s Caroling Powell on Greenacres Special Cavalier rounding out the podium. Click here for the full results.

Emma Stoker and Q Seven took the win in the opening Hird & Partners 1.35m CSI3* class of the show, putting in a very fast time to narrowly take the lead by 0.12 seconds from runner-up Carmen Edwards riding Garou Pommex Z. Third place went to Annabel Shields riding Elgrando PS. For full results of all the opening showjumping classes, click here.

Day Two

Day two of the 2023 Bolesworth International was an action-packed festival of equestrian sport.

Jonathan Smyth riding Mulvin Lui couldn’t be beaten as he tackled the first of two Grand Prix qualifiers, sponsored by HM3 Legal and expertly designed by Javier (Chape) Trenor. 88 combinations came forward for the class, setting the scene for a weekend of world-class showjumping. Jonathan was closely followed by Emma Stoker riding Daisy and George Whitaker riding Peanut. Click here to read the full Thursday results. 

Nearly 200 horses and riders dressed up for the Trooping the Colour-themed park ride, which took place through the morning around the Bolesworth Estate. The ride was in aid of the Riding for the Disabled Association and raised over £2,500. Prizes were presented by RDA Representatives, Ambassadors Joe Stockdale and Evie Toombes and included the best-dressed rider and highest fundraiser.

In the VIP marquee, the hall was packed with eager ears for the panel of inspiring women attending the Women in Business Day lunch. Louise Minchin (freelance BBC presenter), Victoria Price (HM3 Legal) and Fleur Robinson (CEO of Wrexham FC) took to the stage to talk about their lives, their careers and the challenges they’ve faced.

Bolesworth International Women in Business panel

Day Three

Day three of the 2023 Bolesworth International on 16 June 2023 saw an amazing mix of sport and entertainment under the Cheshire summer sun.

The Dodson & Horrell 1.50m jump-off took place as the second qualifier for Sunday’s Cavago CSI3* Grand Prix, and it was a win for Graham Gillespie riding Veneno. An exciting jump-off saw ten combinations come forward, with Christopher Burton in the runner-up spot riding Chedington Hazy Toulana and Tim Gredley in third riding Imperial Hbf.

The Bolesworth Business lunch supported by Connectus took place in the VIP Hospitality, with the highlight being an audience with sporting greats Sir AP McCoy and Michael Owen. The pair and other special guests took part in the notorious Ride and Drive sponsored by Lexus Chester. The resulting teams were: Jay Halim and Neil Crowden in 1st place, Lila Bremner and Daniel Mc Alinden in the silver medal position and Madison Heath and Graham Heath rounding out the top 3.

Bolesworth International Ride and Drive

The RPJ Band kicked off the weekend!

Friday, Rick Parfitt Jnr & The RPJ Band took the stage, with DJ Phoebe D’Abo following on the decks to bring the summer festival vibe to Bolesworth.

Friday Music Night

Day Four

Day four of the 2023 Bolesworth International was a sun-soaked summer Saturday to remember.

It was a winning day for George Whitaker, taking both the FMBs Therapy Systems CSI1* 1.30m with Zirocca Zoom and the LeMieux CSI3* 1.40m with Peanut. Setting off at speed from the start, only a second separated George Whitaker and second-placed Emma Stoker with Daisy. Following in third was Sophie Evans with Csio Bel. Full results. 

The amateur classes at Bolesworth International were also highly competitive. It was an Irish 1,2,3 in the Roewer & Rueb CSIAm-A 1.15m, with Robyn Mcowan taking the top spot with Zuidam. The on-form Rachel Gredley took 2nd and 3rd with Jalanna and Hobalo, respectively. Full results.

As anticipation built for Sunday’s Cavago CSI3* 1.50m Grand Prix, all eyes were on Graham Gillespie, Emma Stoker, and Tim Gredley, all of whom had already won a Grand Prix Qualifier this week. Another strong contender was that of George Whitaker with the talented stallion Peanut, a combination who hadn’t rolled a pole this week and continued to improve with every round.

Master of The Puissance Continues Winning Streak

Against the beautiful backdrop of Bolesworth Castle, a nine-strong field of horses and riders each came forward to take on the challenge of the big red wall in the eVet Drug Puissance.

Firm favourites from the beginning, Puissance Specialists Guy Williams and Mr Blue Sky UK, delighted the crowd in every round, soaring over the wall with ease and finishing victorious over 2m15cm. Second place was secured by Puissance newcomer Ireland’s Brendan Murphy, with Erne Riverrun and Daniel McAlinden with Keatingstown Z Wellie Two in third place.

Bolesworth International Puissance Winner

It was a real privilege to see one of the greatest Puissance horses of all time, Mr Blue Sky UK, in action at Bolesworth, and the crowd certainly showed their gratitude too! Full Results.

The Live Stage was a-buzz!

Saturday night was music night, with sets from The Brand New Heavies and DJ Trevor Nelson; the dance floor was packed with party-goers all night long.

Saturday Music Night

Final Day of The Bolesworth International

Following their win on Thursday, Tony Pearson and Wyoming 19 took the top spot in the Peel Ports Logistics CSIAm 1.25m. The on-form stallion just pipped Isabella Sharifi and Iowenna to the post by half a second. Consistently-placed Aisling Byrne was third, with the talented mare Celeste Spb Z, rolling her first pole of the week.

It was tight at the top in the final of the Helite UK CSIAm 1.05m; coming out triumphant was Grace Wallace with Eau Claire V. The Calvaro Z mare has been on fantastic form, posting two wins and a second over the course of the show. Hot on Grace’s heels was Aljoud Alsabah, with Caballina riding under the Kuwait flag. Securing third place was Aisling Byrne with Bronson de Reve.

Aladdin, Nemo, Mrs Incredible, and other characters took to the main arena to contest the Northcote Stud Mini Major. This crowd-favourite class always promises fast and furious fun, where professional riders are paired with children as young as just seven years old. First, the child jumps a course of fences as fast as possible before the professional rider sets off around their set of fences.

Novelty class extraordinaire Jay Halim was still in a speedy mood following on from his win on Friday in the Lexus Chester Ride and Drive. Paired with Amelie Bradshaw, the duo were unbeatable, first in and leading all the way to the end. Finishing in second was Ben Hobday with Lorena Hanson-Lamb, and Sven Hadley with Freddie Hodges in third. With the crowd supporting every rider all the way, it was smiles all around and a great afternoon of equestrian fun!

Aladdin

Ireland saves the best ’till last!

The climax of the show and the moment we have all been waiting for. The Cavago CSI3* Grand Prix winner has been determined with the title going to the Irish superstar, Billy Twomey, with his own and the late Sue Davis’ Chat Botte E.D.

The last to take on the testing jump-off course, the Casall stallion cruised around the jump-off, never missing a beat, showcasing a true showjumping masterclass. Billy described the win at Bolesworth as “special for him” due to his connections with the show and those locally too. On the horse, Billy commented: “He’s an extremely talented horse, part-owned by the late Sue Davis. As a young horse, he proved challenging and headstrong but is a real winner who is super consistent in the ring.”

Bolesworth International grand prix winner

Following just over a second behind Billy was another Irish gem in the up-and-coming star, Jonathan Smyth, who won the HM3 Legal CSI3* 1.45m Grand Prix Qualifier on Thursday with Mulvin Lui. Third place and best of the Brits was Guy Williams with the Emerald stallion Ernie of Greenhill Z.

With only five double clears, the Cavago CSI3* Grand Prix provided the perfect final challenge to end a fantastic week of showjumping. Full Results.

A BIG thank you

To all our partners, riders, guests and exhibitors, thank you so much for spending the week with us! We couldn’t have done it without you, and the success of the International is all thanks to you guys!

Bring on 2024!

Day 4: Saturday Round Up 1024 683 Daniel Shires

Day 4: Saturday Round Up

Day four of the 2023 Bolesworth International was a sun-soaked summer Saturday to remember.

It was a winning day for George Whitaker, taking both the FMBs Therapy Systems CSI1* 1.30m with Zirocca Zoom, and the LeMieux CSI3* 1.40m with Peanut. Setting off at speed from the start, only a second separated George Whitaker and second placed Emma Stoker with Daisy. Following in third was Sophie Evans with Csio Bel. The on-form stallion Peanut, owned by Samantha Jayne Lambert, is certainly one to watch going into tomorrow’s Cavago CSI3* Grand Prix, posting a hattrick of clear rounds over the course of the show so far.

Full results. 

The amateur classes at Bolesworth International have been highly competitive. It was an Irish 1,2,3 in the Roewer & Rueb CSIAm-A 1.15m, with Robyn Mcowan taking the top spot with Zuidam. The on-form Rachel Gredley took 2nd and 3rd with Jalanna and Hobalo, respectively.

Full results.

As anticipation builds for tomorrow’s Cavago CSI3* 1.50m Grand Prix, all eyes are on Graham Gillespie, Emma Stoker, and Tim Gredley, all of whom have already won a Grand Prix Qualifier this week. Another strong contender is that of George Whitaker with the talented stallion Peanut, a combination who haven’t rolled a pole this week and continue to improve with every round.

It’s all to play for and promises a thrilling end to what has been an exciting week of sport at the Bolesworth International. Tickets are available to purchase on the gate, we look forward to seeing you tomorrow!

Find out more.

Day 3: Graham Gillespie Wins the Dodson & Horrell Grand Prix Qualifier 895 594 Daniel Shires

Day 3: Graham Gillespie Wins the Dodson & Horrell Grand Prix Qualifier

Day three of the 2023 Bolesworth International on 16 June 2023 saw an amazing mix of sport and entertainment under the Cheshire summer sun.

The Dodson & Horrell 1.50m jump off took place as the second qualifier for Sunday’s Cavago CSI3* Grand Prix, and it was a win for Graham Gillespie riding Veneno. An exciting jump off saw ten combinations come forward with Christopher Burton in runner up spot riding Chedington Hazy Toulana and Tim Gredley in third riding Imperial Hbf.

Check out the full results here.

Tickets for the weekend are still available by clicking here. Save 20% by buying online or pay on the gate!

 

Women in Business 2023 Bolesworth International, Victoria Price, Fleur Robinson and Louise Minchin
Visitors flock to All-New Bolesworth International 1024 683 Daniel Shires

Visitors flock to All-New Bolesworth International

THOUSANDS of people descended on Bolesworth Castle for a sun-soaked family spectacular.

The new-look Bolesworth International has been a massive hit with visitors since doors opened on Wednesday.

And there is still plenty left to enjoy before the unmissable five-day event ends this Sunday evening.

Crowds flocked to the 6,000-acre Tattenhall estate – on the border of North Wales and Cheshire – and enjoyed a busy timetable of international equestrian competitions and lifestyle attractions with special guests including broadcaster, author and journalist Louise Minchin, Ernst and Young tax leader Victoria Price, and Wrexham AFC CEO Fleur Robinson, who fronted a sold-out Women in Business lunch and Q&A presented by HM3 Legal today (Thursday).

“I’ve been here many times, it’s a beautiful place – absolutely immaculate – and I love it,” said Louise, who also discussed the release of her new book, Fearless.

Reflecting on a whirlwind season which included promotion from the National League, backed by Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, Fleur added: “It’s fantastic how the owners have invested in the club and the community.

“It’s amazing to be a part of it and the interest and growth has been incredible. The club has seen turnover rise from £2.5m to £20m and as part of their mission statement they made it clear they wanted to develop the stadium, increase crowds, and make a difference in the community.

“They are also aiming for the Premier League. There are no major timescales attached to this but it’s the ultimate ambition.”

Thursday also featured an A-List Auction and Gala night with Gallagher and a Trooping the Colour charity park ride in aid of the RDA (Rising for the Disabled) with Sir Lee Pearson CBE, ahead of Friday’s Business Day, where a networking session with horseracing legend Sir A P McCoy and former England and Liverpool striker Michael Owen will be among the highlights.

Bolesworth’s Managing Director Nina Barbour says the “incredible response” from the public means they are well on track to achieve 250,000 annual visitors ahead of the Castle’s 200th anniversary in 2028.

“The Estate has been a hive of activity since the launch on Wednesday, with crowds of people from across the country joining the celebrations,” said Nina.

“Show jumping in the main arena has been world class, and well contested, with some of the top names taking part.

“The crowds have loved it, the standard has been unbelievably high and it was great to see a female winner in Faye Adams.”

She added: “The business and networking events have also been well attended, and I would like to thank all our special guests for being a part of what has been the most packed programme we have ever put together.”

The coming days will also include live music, when The Brand New Heavies, DJs Trevor Nelson and Phoebe D-Abo, and Rick Parfitt Jr and the RPJ Band take to the stage.

An extensive shopping village and food and drink outlets look to be even busier over the weekend as tickets continue to sell rapidly, and families have been enjoying a raft of activities from pony rides and land and water zorbing, to FMX and BMX stunt displays, a wildlife petting zoo, beekeeping, falconry, dog training, fairground, action horses, barbecue masterclasses and more.

EV and Hybrid vehicle experience zones have also proven popular, with nine leading brands available to test drive on and off site.

“We have had the most amazing few days but there is still so much more to come so book your tickets soon – don’t miss out!”

Bolesworth International runs until Sunday (June 18). For the latest news and information and to book tickets, visit the website www.bolesworth.com/international or call 01829 782210.

Day 2: Thursday Action at Bolesworth International 895 594 Daniel Shires

Day 2: Thursday Action at Bolesworth International

Day two of the 2023 Bolesworth International was an action-packed festival of equestrian.

Jonathan Smyth riding Mulvin Lui couldn’t be beaten as he tackled the first of two Grand Prix qualifiers, sponsored by HM3 Legal and expertly designed by Javier (Chape) Trenor. 88 combinations came forward for the class which set the scene for a weekend of world-class showjumping. Jonathan was closely followed by Emma Stoker riding Daisy and George Whitaker riding Peanut.

Click here to read the full Thursday results. 

Nearly 200 horses and riders dressed up for the Trooping the Colour themed park ride which took place through the morning around the Bolesworth Estate. The ride was in aid of the Riding for the Disabled Association and raised over £2,500. Prizes were presented by RDA Representatives, Ambassadors Joe Stockdale and Evie Toombes, and included the best dressed rider and highest fundraiser.

The stage is set for an unbelievable weekend of live music! Fridays see Rick Parfitt Jr & The RPJ Band take to the stage with DJ Phoebe D’Abo following on the decks to bring the summer festival vibe to Bolesworth. Saturday is for the 90’s lovers with The Brand New Heavies and DJ Trevor Nelson getting the party started.

If you’d like to join us for a fantastic weekend of sport, live music, entertainment and much more in the glorious summer sun, visit www.bolesworth.com/international and get tickets; you can buy on the gate but it’s 20% cheaper in advance online!

Eventing at Bolesworth
Day 1: The 2023 Bolesworth International is Go! 1024 683 Daniel Shires

Day 1: The 2023 Bolesworth International is Go!

The opening day of the 2023 Bolesworth International started spectacularly on 14 June 2023.

Alex Bragg set off at an unbeatable pace with experienced campaigner Quindiva expertly navigating the tricky JCL Insurance Brokers Eventing Grand Prix course, set by Andrew Heffernan, taking place in the Main International Arena.

The second place prize was secured by Gemma Stevens riding Santiago Bay, with New Zealand’s Caroling Powell on Greenacres Special Cavalier rounding out the podium.

Click here for the full results.

Emma Stoker and Q Seven took the win in the opening Hird & Partners 1.35m CSI3* class of the show, putting in a very fast time to narrowly take the lead by 0.12 seconds from runner-up Carmen Edwards riding Garou Pommex Z. Third place went to Annabel Shields riding Elgrando PS. Tomorrow gets serious as we see the top International riders take on the first of two qualifiers for the Cavago Grand Prix on Sunday, it’s all to play for so make sure you have your tickets!

For full results of all the opening showjumping classes click here.

Tickets are still available for the remainder of the show at www.bolesworth.com/international.