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Nina Barbour

Jurassic Live Adventure Dinosaurs at Bolesworth Summer 2023
Jurassic Live Adventure Roars Into Bolesworth 1024 683 Daniel Shires

Jurassic Live Adventure Roars Into Bolesworth

Visitors to a Cheshire estate are set for a dinosaur adventure millions of years in the making this summer.

A T-Rex, velociraptors, triceratops and more are set to take over Bolesworth near Chester from July 25 – 30 as Jurassic Live Adventure roars open.

The event will see dino rangers take intrepid explorers of all ages on a unique and immersive hour-long prehistoric expedition through Bolesworth Castle’s amazing ‘Jurassic Forest’, where dinosaurs of all shapes and sizes roam freely to this day.

As well as the chance to get up close to a host of dinosaur species, food and drink plus a small funfair will be available to enjoy before and after your ‘dino-mite’ tour.

The event is being organised by Bolesworth in partnership with Jurassic Live, a Wrexham-based company who run dinosaur stage shows across the UK.

Nina Barbour, Managing Director of Bolesworth said: “Whilst we have plenty of experience of looking after horses at Bolesworth, it’s safe to say dinosaurs are a different beast! When we discovered the forest near Bolesworth Castle was home to a dinosaur colony, we called on the team from Jurassic Live for their expertise.

“Their experienced dino rangers will lead dinosaur lovers of all ages on immersive expeditions this summer through our newly named Jurassic Forest, where they can get up close and see these amazing creatures in their natural habitats.

“This summer we can’t wait welcome everyone… to Jurassic Live Adventure at Bolesworth.”

Sam Foulkes, Managing Director of Jurassic Live said: “We’re obviously very used to working with dinosaurs so when we heard about the discovery of prehistoric animals at Bolesworth we were delighted to help!

“We’ve created an amazing tour that will allow intrepid explorers to come face-to-face with a host of their favourite dinosaurs, all in their special enclosures to create the most unique and immersive live dinosaur experience in the world.”

Tickets and tour timeslots are on sale now. book yours now and find out more at www.bolesworth.com/dinosaurs.

Christmas at Bolesworth 2023
Step Into Christmas at Bolesworth 1024 683 Daniel Shires

Step Into Christmas at Bolesworth

CHRISTMAS has come early for fans of one of the North West’s premier venues.

Tickets are now on sale for the Bolesworth winter spectacular, with early bird offers up for grabs.

The 6,000-acre estate’s festive extravaganza will this year include a 240 square-metre real ice skating rink, fairground, Santa and his reindeer at Rudolph’s Rest, food and drink, a Champagne bar, and the popular lights trail.

People are urged to book now to capitalise on a 50% discount for Santa’s Grotto, with a 20% reduction on all other attractions until Monday (May 1).

Nina Barbour, Managing Director of the Bolesworth Estate, said: “Christmas at Bolesworth has always been a hit with our supporters, but this year will be bigger and better than ever.

“Due to a surge in demand, we have opened for bookings earlier than before and added extra dates to extend until New Year’s Eve; tickets are selling fast, so we encourage people to get in touch and take advantage of these deals to guarantee the time slots of their choice.”

She added: “The real ice rink is a new addition to the line-up, and will be suitable for kids from age three upwards, located within the Christmas Village.

“We are really excited about Christmas at Bolesworth, and while there is still some time to go, we know December will come around fast so don’t miss out!”

As they begin preparations for the 200th anniversary of Bolesworth Castle in 2028, Nina and the team are looking to build back from the pandemic with a range of activities and celebrations for people of all ages.

Among the other highlights in 2023 are a Spring Garden Walk, Cheshire Balloon Fiesta, Fireworks night, a Festive Farmers’ Convoy and New Year’s Eve Fireworks, which form part of the post Christmas celebrations. There is also the revamped Bolesworth International, which runs from June 14-18 with guests including DJs Trevor Nelson and Phoebe d’Abo, pop outfit the Brand New Heavies, and Rick Parfitt Jr and the RPJ Band.

“We are known as a venue for equestrian events and competitions – and we are very proud of that – but Bolesworth is so much more,” said Nina.

“There are hundreds of businesses located on the estate employing more than a thousand people; we are committed to supporting the economy and playing a major role in the community.

“Christmas at Bolesworth will bring people from across Cheshire, the Wirral, North Wales and beyond to our 400,000 square metre-site, which in turn has a knock-on effect for tourism and spend in the area.

“We plan to do even more, go even bigger and be even more daring in the future, hosting world-class, top-quality events in many different spheres – we are only just getting started.”

For more information on Christmas at Bolesworth, visit www.bolesworth.com/christmas and use the code EARLYXMAS when booking to secure your discount.

For the latest news and information on Bolesworth Castle, visit www.bolesworth.com or call 01829 782210. Alternatively, email info@bolesworth.com and follow them on social media at @bolesworth.

Dodson & Horrell named as official feed supplier for Bolesworth International
Local Feed to Fuel the Bolesworth International 1024 512 Daniel Shires

Local Feed to Fuel the Bolesworth International

Bolesworth names Dodson & Horrell as official feed supplier for 2023 season of equestrian events.

Cheshire’s greatest equestrian event will be fuelled by a local horse feed company to extend an existing relationship.

The Bolesworth International is set to take place from June 14 to 18 2023 and Nantwich-based manufacturer Dodson & Horrell will serve as official feed supplier for the five-day show, which will see over 800 horses stabled on-site for the duration of the event.

The organisation, based at Aston Mill just 20 minutes away from Bolesworth has manufactured high quality animal feed for over 80 years and are committed to animal health, nutrition and well-being. Their philosophy is to treat every animal individually and are proud holders of a Royal Warrant.

Nina Barbour, Managing Director of Bolesworth said: “We’re delighted to continue our long and valued partnership with Dodson & Horrell into this exciting new phase as we open the Bolesworth International to expanded audiences in 2023 and beyond.

“Their product is of the highest standard and milled and manufactured a short distance from Bolesworth, so we’re thrilled to be working with and supporting local business; it’s simply the perfect solution for our equestrian feed needs.

“The 2023 Bolesworth International promises to be an extremely exciting event for both equestrian fans and wider visitors and we’re pleased to continue our partnership.”

Sam Horrell, Managing Director of Dodson & Horrell said: “We are delighted to be working with the team at Bolesworth again this year, with the new format of the event looking very exciting, and we very much look forward to being a part of it as official feed supplier.”

The all-new Bolesworth International will mix international showjumping, the elite A-List sport horse auction, and equestrian sport with live music, family areas and camping, exciting action and entertainment zones, equestrian and lifestyle shopping and much more.

The event will feature dedicated a dedicated Eventing day on Wednesday 14 June headlined by an Eventing Grand Prix with a £5,000 prize featuring big names such as Laura Collett, Gemma Stevens, Tom McEwen, Sam Ecroyd and Emily King, plus a masterclass hosted by Olympians Geoff Billington and Nicola Wilson.

The following day, visitors are invited to lend their support to an amazing cause and add a splash of colour to the Cheshire countryside with the Trooping the Colour Park Ride on 15 June. This slow-paced hack through the stunning scenery surrounding Bolesworth will celebrate the King’s Birthday Parade whilst raising money for the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA).

Live music fans will also be well catered for, with 90’s legends The Brand New Heavies and Trevor Nelson headlining Saturday night, with Rick Parfitt Jnr & the RPJ Band and DJ Phoebe d’Abo performing on Friday.

For more information and to get tickets, visit www.bolesworth.com/international.

Christmas at Bolesworth 2023
Get Your Skates on for Christmas at Bolesworth 2023 1024 683 Daniel Shires

Get Your Skates on for Christmas at Bolesworth 2023

The most wonderful time of the year is set to be even more magical in 2023 as Christmas at Bolesworth returns bigger and brighter than ever before.

After thousands of visitors flocked to the winter wonderland sited in the heart of Cheshire in 2022, the team behind Christmas at Bolesworth has added a host of extra dates to give festive revellers even more opportunities to celebrate the season in style.

The event, located eight miles south of Chester, will be open on select days from November the 24th all the way through to New Year’s Eve.

2023 will again see the return of the venue’s spectacular, dazzling lights trail and other favourites like Santa’s Grotto but, following huge demand, a real ice-skating rink will be added as a new centrepiece attraction.

There’ll also be a stunning family-friendly New Year’s Eve firework display, allowing younger visitors to ‘see-in’ 2024 with mum and dad at around 8pm on December the 31st.

Nina Barbour, managing director of Bolesworth said; “We can’t thank the huge numbers of Christmas visitors enough for making our event so special during December. Plans are already being made for 2023 that will include a central feature with a real ice skating-rink, plus many more exciting new zones. We’re also extending the event to run until New Year’s Eve too, where there’ll be incredible fireworks, 200 minutes before the strike of midnight. Allowing families and friends to welcome in the New Year in style.

“Tickets for Christmas at Bolesworth 2023 will go on-sale soon. In the meantime, we invite people to complete our special Christmas survey, to help us understand more about what they loved about the event and the bits we can improve.

“By completing the survey they’ll get access to a special 10% discount on general admission tickets when they go on-sale. What’s more, admission to Santa’s Grotto will be free of charge for all general admission bookings made before the 30th of April 2023.”

To complete the survey, visit https://bit.ly/2022christmassurvey

Discover Bolesworth’s events schedule for 2023.

Bolesworth International 2023 - Louise Saywell jumping
Bolesworth Launches Brand-New Country Lifestyle and Equestrian Show 1024 512 Daniel Shires

Bolesworth Launches Brand-New Country Lifestyle and Equestrian Show

With an ever-developing line up of music, sports and family lifestyle events, the Bolesworth Estate team are deep in planning for what could be the North West’s most action-packed lifestyle and equestrian event of the year.

Formerly known as the International Horse Show, the ground-breaking five-day Bolesworth International will take place from Wednesday the 14th to Sunday the 18th of June 2023. It will not only showcase the finest world-class and Olympic equestrian talent, but will also embrace a huge raft of innovative enhancements,  including country lifestyle artisan and premium retail, celebrity food and drink experiences, live music, children’s activity and experience zones, dog agility events, together with fairground, lake and watersport activities. Away from the hustle and bustle, there’ll be an all-new central garden zone that promises to deliver an entirely tranquil Castle-view experience.

The substantial Lifestyle retail area will encompass country, equestrian and premium shopping. The Family zone will be a hive of action with a packed-out programme of family fun displays and live entertainment. There’ll be improved kids and dog areas together with a scenic dog-friendly walking route, all with the historic Bolesworth Castle as a backdrop.

On the equine front, the Bolesworth International will headline with world-ranking Showjumping and Freestyle Dressage, alongside thrilling spectacles such as Stunt horses, Puissance, Mini Major and the all-action Ride and Drive starring England footballing legend, Michael Owen.

Commenting on the significant investment and all-new event, Bolesworth Managing Director Nina Barbour said; “The tradition of staging a world-class international horse show is still firmly in the DNA of the event, but we’re at the beginning of a brand-new and dynamic era for Bolesworth that will see the best music, sport, family and lifestyle events take centre-stage. The Horse Show is an event that I’m passionate about and will be taken to another level. We’ve been brave, ripped up the rulebook and I’m confident that we’ll create an event that will set us apart from any other Horse Show in the country.”

General Admission, VIP experiences and Camping packages will go on sale in the New Year, with confirmation of the full line up of new content.

Interested parties are invited to register now to ensure they receive a 20 per cent pre-sale discount code ahead of event general admission tickets going on sale.

For more information and to sign-up to the exclusive pre-sale discount, visit www.bolesworth.com/international

For retail and partnership enquiries contact Melanie Simm by email

Louise Saywell at 2022 Bolesworth International
Day 5: Sporting Finale at Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show 1024 512 Daniel Shires

Day 5: Sporting Finale at Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show

The final day at the Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show delivered plenty of intense action across all classes, from the ultra-competitive big-money Dodson & Horrell CSI3* Grand Prix to the fun Fancy Dress Mini Major pairs relay.
 
Dodson & Horrell CSI3* 1.50m Grand Prix
The climax of the week came when title partner Dodson & Horrell’s 1.50m Grand Prix took to the ring and was won by Louise Saywell with Kingsborough Kasper, second was Angelie Von Essen on Daniel and third, Robert Murphy on How Easy.
 
This highly-revered event has been developed for the best of the best, it’s the one the riders aspire to win and is a huge test for both horse and rider. After a two-phase qualifying, 50 riders were seeded through to the main event to tackle the tightly-timed course, with its big and bold, yet delicate jumps.
 
The top 13 riders went through to a jump-off where the only three to go clear in the main event, put in faultless performances to fill the podium.

https://youtu.be/NtcZABYzxlA

Nina Takes Home Win

Bolesworth’s managing director Nina Barbour donned her riding boots this morning to win the opening class of the day on home turf. She won the Röwer & Rüb Amateur 1.25m Grand Prix on her 12-year-old mare Ardis. “I’m delighted with my horse Ardis,” said Nina. “She is actually owned by my mum Diana Barbour. She’s back from injury which has taken a few years. She’s a little star and I’m really happy with her.”

Mini Majors at Bolesworth

The Le Mieux CSI3* Mini Major is a firm favourite at Bolesworth. All kitted out in fancy dress, pony riders pair up with a top international rider in a thrilling competition to each complete a showjumping round in the quickest time, with the fewest faults. The youngsters delighted the Bolesworth crowd with their skill and determination. Guy Williams with team-mate Alex Leggott won the class in convincing style.

Edwards Wins First-Ever Puissance

Saturday evening, the 2nd of July, nine riders lined-up for the Bolesworth eVetDrug CSI3* Puissance, where first-timers Mark Edwards with Montreuxs Tale took the win jumping to an impressive 2.19m. “It was the first time for both of us. A new experience, and what a way to do it. This horse has jumped Nations Cups and he won the Queen’s Cup last year. He’s a really good Grand Prix horse,” said Edwards.

Sunday Day 5 Results Roundup

Dodson & Horrell CSI3* 1.50m Grand Prix
1. Louise Saywell/Kingsborough Kasper, 2. Angelie Von Essen/Daniel, 3. Robert Murphy/How Easy, 4. Adrian Speight/Millfield Balony, 5. Anna Power/McQueen, 6. Yazmin Davis/Zanbowa Z, 7. William Funnell/Equine America Billy Diamo, 8. Anthony Condon/Sfs Vincomte, 9. Annabel Shields/Creevagh Carisma, 10. David Simpson/Medoc de Toxandria.
 
Röwer & Rüb Amateur 1.25m Grand Prix
1. Nina Barbour/Ardis, 2. Tony Pearson/Berlin, 3. Dafydd Watkin Jones/Quando de L’Ecuyer
 
Le Mieux CSI3* Mini Major
1. Guy Williams/Alex Leggott, 2. Jay Halim/Summer Weirzbicki, 3. Robert Murphy/Annabel Widdowson.
 
Cavago CSI3* 1.35m
1. Harry Wainwright/Pinheiro Beech, 2. Louise Saywell/Sharp Image, 3. Mark Edwards/Ede Peasy.
 
Al Shira’aa CSI-YH 7-year-old Final
1. James Whitaker/Just Call Me Henry, 2. Louise Saywell/King Blue, 3. James Smith/Wicked Vancouver.
 
Beaverbrooks CSI YH 5-year-old Final
1. Emma Stoker/Comme Ci, Comme Ca, 2. Drew Walton/Solid Gold Hs Z, 3. Carmen Edwards/Escape The Gossip.
 
Equitop GLME CSI1* 1.25m
1. Simon Crippen/Billy Kvitfell, 2. Corinne Collins/Dolores P, 3. Charlene Bastone/Jacpot
 
Horseware Ireland CSI1* 1.35m
1. Joanne McGlory/G. Zara Zing, 2. Eve McCoy/Ella, 3. Ella Quigley/One To Go
 
JCL Insurance Brokers CSI-P 1.30m
1. Dafydd Watkin Jones/Trevor, 2. Phoebe Farlan/Teach More Joey, 3. Eve McCoy/Moores Pride
 
Saturday, Day 4 results:
eVetDrug CSI3* Puissance:
1. Mark Edwards, Montreuxs Tale, 2. Guy Williams, Mr Blue Sky, 3. Daniel McAlinden, Chapristi.

Coming Up At Bolesworth

Sunflower Picking Patch and Aladdin Maze, 20 August – 4 September

Summer at Bolesworth will see the venue stage its very first Summer Sunflower Maze, providing a day out to remember. In partnership with Maize Maze experts Picking Patch, daytime activities will delight all ages as the glorious sunflowers provide a happy picking-place and a lovely backdrop to Bolesworth’s bee-friendly wildflower collection.

Keep an eye on our website for more information at bolesworth.com/events!

Ride & Drive Thrills Bolesworth Crowd 1024 545 Daniel Shires

Ride & Drive Thrills Bolesworth Crowd

The Ride & Drive relay held at the Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show last night, kept the crowd on their feel hollering and cheering as the riders and drivers charged around the Bolesworth International arena.

The Showjumpers completed a 1.25m course, quickly dismounted and then hurdled over to their driving partners to go for a superfast spin.

https://youtu.be/ijWgyc4R4vs

Ride & Drive Relay 1.25m sponsored by Lexus Chester
1. William Fletcher (rider)/John Walton (driver)
2. Guy Williams (rider)/Matt Bates (Bolesworth driver)
3. Carlos Eduardo Mota Ribas (rider)/Laurens Meynaerts (driver) – Brazil
4. Jake Ward (rider)/Jack Whitaker (driver)
5. Jay Halim (rider)/Alistair Scott (driver)
6. Mark Edwards (rider)/Danny Jackson (driver)
7. Nina Barbour (Bolesworth rider)/Michael Owen (driver)
8. Gemma Tattersall (rider)/Sam Horrell (driver)
9. Robert Murphy (rider)/Alex Li (driver)
10. Izac Ketteridge (rider)/Roy Shelton (driver)

Discover future events at Bolesworth

International Horse Show Returns Featuring VIP Guests & Entertainment for All 1024 536 Daniel Shires

International Horse Show Returns Featuring VIP Guests & Entertainment for All

The world-renowned Dodson & Horrell International Horse Show returns to Bolesworth this month and promises to be the perfect summer’s day out for the all the family. 

Taking place from 29 June to 3 July, the show is a calendar highlight for many, not just for its amazing displays of equestrian sport, but for its shopping village, food and drink offering, entertainment and much more. 

Set in the picturesque Cheshire countryside against the stunning backdrop of Bolesworth Castle, this is your chance to get up close to world-class horses and riders for five days of international-level showjumping. 

 
This year, guests will also get to brush shoulders with the stars, including former champion jockey Sir AP McCoy and retired England footballer Michael Owen, at Thursday’s Speed and Style event. This key attraction will see well-known names and celebrities from the world of sport, horse racing and equestrian teaming up for a competitive race which will involve team tagging from the equestrian arena on horse-back to a four-wheeled racecourse that winds between the show jumps – with the fastest combined time winning the class.  

Tickets are being snapped up as the event draws closer. Day tickets and hospitality packages are available online, offering a full schedule of evening entertainment including DJs and bands and dining options. 

Shopaholics will be wowed by the trade stand area, which boasts a variety of shops and showcases a fantastic range of products from high-end equestrian outlets, unusual giftware and beautiful items for the home and garden. 

 
Visitors will also be spoilt for choice when it comes to food, with everything from VIP Hospitality and ringside Champagne PIAFF bar, to a hog roast and doughnuts available. 
 

Each day features an action-packed line up, showcasing Longines World Ranking international Showjumping, featuring top riders including Olympic athletes Robert Smith, Will & Pippa Funnell, Holly Smith, and rising stars Jack Whitaker and Joe Stockdale. 

The International Horse Show kicks off on Wednesday (29 June) with dressage, the first of the International Showjumping and the preview for Friday night’s auction, followed by a Celebrity Ride & Drive with Michael Owen and Sir AP McCoy on Thursday. DJs and live entertainment then begin on Friday, with live entertainment from Disco Classical being the party highlight on Saturday night taking place after the puissance high jumping competition – always a highlight of the jumping. The show then concludes with the spectacular Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth Grand Prix, Mini Major Pairs Relay and International Amateur Final on Sunday. 

There is also a whole host of family entertainment and attractions across the weekend including Shire horses, donkey rides, Meet and Greets with top riders, and a horse simulator. 

 
This year, a Family Dog Show & Dog Agility take place on Saturday and Sunday, featuring qualifiers for the Agility Challenge Final sponsored by Country Shows Agility. For those less competitive, there is also the Have a Go Agility and Fun Dog Show taking place on both days. 

Nina Barbour, managing director at Bolesworth, said: “This is the first equestrian event of the year at Bolesworth and what better way to start the Season of Events than with the Dodson & Horrell International Horse Show.  

“We are thrilled to welcome both experienced riders and those who will be making their debut at Bolesworth. The team are also incredibly excited to partner with Michael Owen and Sir AP McCoy to make this one of our most memorable events to date. 
 

“We pride ourselves on the fact that there is something for everyone here, from horse and dog enthusiasts to families and couples looking for a fun day out, soaking up the competitive atmosphere whilst enjoying the food, drink and shopping opportunities.” 

 
The show provides the perfect opportunity to find out what else is going on at this year’s Season of Events, including CarFest North, summer outdoor movies, sunflower picking, maze, Halloween Circus, Fireworks and Christmas. To find out more information and purchase tickets, visit www.bolesworth.com/events.

Michael Owen Signs Exclusive Deal With Cheshire’s Bolesworth Estate 1024 536 Daniel Shires

Michael Owen Signs Exclusive Deal With Cheshire’s Bolesworth Estate

31 May 2022

Michael Owen has today signed an exclusive deal with Cheshire’s Bolesworth Estate.

The partnership will see Michael attending a host of events on the Bolesworth calendar in Tattenhall throughout the forthcoming season.

Michael, owner of Manor House Stables, which is situated just a short distance away from Bolesworth in the village of Malpas, will be the headline name at Bolesworth’s famous International Horse Show which opens on June 29th.

He will even be taking part himself during Speed and Style Day on June 30th.

The key event on this day will see well-known names and celebrities from the world of sport, horse racing and equestrian teaming up for a competitive race which will involve team tagging from the equestrian arena on horse-back to a 4-wheeled racecourse that winds between the show jumps – with the fastest combined time winning the class.

Nina Barbour, Managing Director of the Bolesworth Estate will be competing with Michael on the day.

Other confirmed names include jockey AP McCoy and an ever-expanding line-up of sports and entertainment celebrities.

Nina said: “We are delighted to be launching this new partnership with Michael.

“Michael’s daughter has previously taken part in our dressage events at Bolesworth and Michael is a familiar face here. It is wonderful that we have now taken this a step further and I am really looking forward to welcoming Michael to a host of events throughout the year ahead – and to be competing with him too in our big season launch event.”

Michael added: “Bolesworth is a fabulous location with a superb event calendar running across the year – where there really is something for everyone to enjoy.

“I am looking forward to the partnership and to be taking part in the first big event at Bolesworth this summer.

“There is real synergy between both Bolesworth and Manor House Stables and I hope through this partnership there will be the opportunity to showcase horse racing and racehorse ownership to a new and interested audience.”

The Dodson and Horrell International Horse Show takes place across five days from June 29th until July 3rd.

Tickets are now on sale and for those wanting to make this an extra special occasion, there are a variety of exclusive packages available featuring Michael Owen’s Speed & Style hospitality event as well as Ladies Day on July 1st.

Anyone buying a ticket for hospitality on the Speed & Style Day featuring Michael Owen (Thursday, 30th June) will be entered into a prize draw to win an exclusive chance to team up with an international show jumper and drive alongside Michael in the team competition.

As well as world-class show jumping, events across the five days will include a shopping village, shire horses, covered seating, champagne bars, dog agility, family dog shows and fair rides.

Further details on the Dodson and Horrell International Horse Show and all of the events taking place at Bolesworth during the 2022 season can be found here.

Bolesworth Castle, a magnificent country house, is set on a 6,500-acre estate. With more than 150,000 visitors to events each year, its popularity helps to employ more than 1,000 people in the Cheshire region with additional employment opportunities throughout the year.

For hospitality enquiries, contact Melanie@bolesworth.com

Update: Bloomfields Horseboxes CDI 3* International Dressage 1024 536 Daniel Shires

Update: Bloomfields Horseboxes CDI 3* International Dressage

24th May 2022

Unfortunately, we have had to make the tough decision to cancel the Bloomfields Horseboxes CDI 3* International Dressage event, which was due to take place at Bolesworth from the 24th to the 26th of June 2022.

Our plan for this year was to replicate our successful show jumping shows for dressage, but sadly, with the rising costs of staging world class events, current circumstances have resulted in reduced numbers that affect the commercial viability of the show and, consequently, we have little choice but to cancel. While we did have plenty of interest and support from dressage riders who were keen to compete at Bolesworth, at both national and international level, our model for equestrian events is heavily reliant on public ticket sales and hospitality, not just entries, and the challenges of the current economic climate have inevitably affected both of these areas.

However, we are working closely with British Dressage and British Equestrian to see if there is a way of incorporating a condensed version of the CDI 3* Big Tour classes at the Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show in order to retain this valuable opportunity for international riders.  We are in consultation with the FEI and will be contacting those riders affected directly in due course.

We thank BD, the Federation, our many supporters and sponsors for working with us, and we are disappointed that we won’t be able to deliver the event this year as planned. A member of the Bolesworth team will contact all the people who have entered the event or booked tickets, hospitality, or trade stands to arrange full refunds.

Unfortunately, the cancellation of the dressage has also forced the cancellation of the Elite Dressage Auction due to take place on Saturday 25th June.

Nina Barbour, managing director at Bolesworth said: “We apologise for those of you who have the Bolesworth Dressage event in your calendar and were looking forward to attending, especially those riders entered, who we know make plans well in advance, and really do understand the disappointment that this decision will cause.  The Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show (29 June – 3 July), and the Al Shira’aa Bolesworth Young Horse Championships (10 – 14 August), are firmly fixed on the calendar. We look forward to welcoming riders, visitors, our sponsors, trade stands and supporters to both events.”

Jason Brautigam, British Dressage CEO, comments: “We are of course incredibly disappointed that Bolesworth has had to take the unenviable decision to cancel this year’s International Dressage event, but completely understand that we are all operating in a difficult economic environment.  These commercial challenges are currently being faced by event organisers across the sport, leisure and entertainment sector, so it’s certainly not specific to dressage, but unfortunately, we are not immune to those wider market forces beyond our control.

“In partnership with Bolesworth, we will work with the BEF and FEI to determine whether we can reschedule the Big Tour classes, as we know these CDI opportunities are vitally important for our international riders competing for selection and thank Nina and her team for their support.”

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