Allerton Park Horse Trials runs this year over the weekend 16-17 September, coinciding with the start of the Olympic Games. The British Horse Trials Association (BHTA) affiliated event takes place in beautiful landscaped parkland near Knaresborough, which has for generations been the home of the Lords Mowbray, Seagrave and Stourton - the premier barony of England.

The tough competition is a test of the obedience, endurance and agility of horses (and riders..) and involves dressage, showjumping and cross-country riding. Following the success of the 1999 event, which attracted over 400 competitors, this year there are classes from Open Intermediate to Pony Club level. Many of the fences have been upgraded during the year and allowed to ‘bed in’, so the course is now in perfect riding condition.

The web site which proved popular with both competitors and spectators last year has been updated and will be enhanced further. It gives information about the event, start times, results and links to other internet sites. Course plans and fence photos from 1999 are shown and will be updated shortly. Visit it via the BHTA site (http://www.bhta.co.uk), or directly at http://www.allerton-park-estate.com.

The event promises to be a great day out for all the family. Spectators are well catered for with excellent views of the course, many trade stands including a licenced bar, refreshments and, for the first time, a Craft marquee which is always a popular feature at major events.