Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.
With just days to go until the FEI Barefoot Retreats Burnham Market International Horse Trials (April 17-19), anticipation is building for a thrilling weekend of high octane international sport on the North Norfolk coast.
Many eyes will be on Oliver Townend, who heads to Burnham Market aiming to defend his CCI4* S title with Paul and Diana Ridgeon’s mare, Cooley Rosalent. Victory here last year saw Oliver reach an astonishing milestone – his 16th win in the flagship class at Burnham Market. Now, he returns hunting for an unprecedented 17th title, further cementing his legendary status at this much loved event.
Standing firmly in his way is a formidable line up of British and international challengers. Among them is Gemma Stevens, arriving in sparkling form following her recent victory in the Grantham Cup CCI4* S at Thoresby with Cooley Park Muze. Gemma brings enviable strength in depth, also saddling the exciting Chilli Morning IV, a winner of the 7 year old championship at the FEI Eventing World Breeding Championships for young horses at Le Lion d’Angers, alongside Flash Cooley, who impressed last season with victories in the CCI4* L at Millstreet and CCI4* S at Lignières.
Yasmin Ingham and Banzai du Loir. Photo by Tilly Berendt.
Another combination to watch out for is reigning World Champion Yasmin Ingham and her championship winning partner Banzai du Loir. Sidelined last year, a positive start to their spring campaign has put them firmly back on the radar. As they build towards earning a shot at defending their world title later this summer, Burnham Market provides a crucial opportunity to showcase their form on the international stage.
The event’s global appeal is underlined by strong overseas representation, with riders from Ireland, New Zealand, Japan and Brazil amongst those expected to be leading the fight over Alec Lochore’s beautifully designed tracks. One of the standout international contenders is USA’s Cosby Green, a rising star and current world number 10, who heads to Norfolk with her Badminton entries – Highly Suspicious and Jos UFO de Quidam – adding further depth and excitement to an already stellar field.
Cosby Green and Highly Suspicious. Photo by Tilly Berendt.
Set just minutes from the coast, FEI Burnham Market is renowned for its relaxed early season atmosphere and exceptional viewing, with the main arena acting as a natural amphitheatre where crowds can sit and watch the drama unfold. From promising young talent to established champions chasing history, the stage is set for an unforgettable weekend of eventing.
Jenny Meiklejohn, Event Organiser for Musketeer Event Management, said, “Burnham Market never fails to deliver a great spectacle, and with Oliver once again chasing history alongside a host of exciting combinations, spectators can look forward to a superb weekend of sport. The atmosphere, the setting and the quality of competition make this a brilliant early season highlight for everyone involved.”
Spectator tickets start from just £10 for adults and £4 for under 15s, with free on site parking making FEI Burnham Market an easy and affordable day out for all the family. Tickets can be booked in advance at www.musketeer.co.uk or purchased on the gate.
Gates open from 8am each morning, giving spectators plenty of time to settle in and enjoy the action, with competition beginning at 9am on Friday and Saturday, and from 8am on Sunday. Those unable to make it in person can still be part of the weekend, with live and on demand coverage of Saturday and Sunday’s international classes available via ClipMyHorse.TV.
More information on Burnham Market can be found here.
