Countdown to Royal Windsor begins

Spring is in the air, which means the countdown to Royal Windsor Horse Show has started.

International status

The UK’s largest outdoor equestrian event was upgraded to CHI3* status last year, with international showjumping, dressage, carriage driving and endurance taking centre stage.

The five-day show has seen a number of improvements as a result, including a temporary warm-up ring and improved facilities for owners and competitors.

International

The national classes still play a key role at Windsor, attracting well over 2,500 entries in 2014. There are more than 130 showing classes, with highlights including the mountain & moorland supreme in-hand and the working hunter, cob and show hunter pony championships.

There are also a number of national showjumping competitions, includingthe university jumping challenge.

International

Alongside the competitions, Royal Windsor has a number of equestrian and military displays as well as Pony Club mounted games, skill at arms and tent pegging.

The show, which runs from 13–17 May, is the only time the private grounds of Windsor Castle are open to the public. The Queen hasattended every year since it started in 1943, while Prince Philip still judges the carriage driving.

The opening day, dubbed ‘Windsor Wednesday’, offers free admission. For more information visit the Royal Windsor Horse Show website.