There are many horsey events to attend in Sussex this summer, from international polo to local riding club events. Chosen by Jenny Mark-Bell
Brightling Park International Horse Trials, East Sussex - 2 and 3 July
Organised by former racehorse trainer Gardie Grissell, joint owner of the Brightling Park Estate, this is an enjoyable family day out in glorious countryside. Dressage begins at 8am with showjumping and cross country later in the morning. The course is highly regarded and attracts world-class competitors, including Sussex’s own Team GB silver medallist, Tina Cook.
Horsham Riding Club Open Summer Show - 2 July
Join Horsham Riding Club for their annual riding club show. Classes include showjumping, dressage, in-hand showing and side saddle.
Argentine Ambassador’s Cup, Cowdray Polo Club, West Sussex - 3 July
Attended by the Argentine ambassador, this emphasises the strong relationship the polo community has with South America and our mutual passion for the sport of polo.
Jaeger-LeCoultre Gold Cup Final, Cowdray Polo Club, West Sussex - 17 July
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Gold Cup is played to decide the British Open Polo Championship. International stars and polo aficionados descend on Cowdray with this year marking the Gold Cup’s diamond jubilee.
Qatar Goodwood Festival, West Sussex - 26-30 July
Five days of racing at one of Britain’s most beautiful courses. Popularly known as Glorious Goodwood, the event is one of the highlights of the summer season. Highlights include the £1m Qatar Sussex Stakes on Wednesday and Ladies’ Day on Thursday.
Longines Royal International Horse Show, Hickstead, West Sussex - 26-31 July
One of the biggest outdoor shows in the country and a true highlight of the equestrian calendar, the Longines Royal International Horse Show includes international showjumping, showing, scurry driving and side-saddle classes – and that’s just the start. The international showjumping classes get underway from Thursday onwards, with the highlight of this day being the new-look Amlin Plus Eventers’ Challenge.
Summer Showing Show, Bramble Hill Farm, Slinfold, West Sussex - 31 July
A showing show for all abilities. Qualifiers for Equifest, The Showing Register Regional Finals, Amateur Showing Society, Sunshine Tour and 15+ Horse & Pony Events. Pre-entries close on 29 July.
Festival of Racing, Brighton Racecourse, East Sussex - 3-5 August
Eight flat races take place over three days. Ladies’ Day is on the Thursday with the festival finale being the Brighton Bullet sprint.
Ladies’ Women in Polo, Sussex Polo, Home Farm, Wallage Lane, Rowfant, West Sussex - 14 August
Beginning at noon with on-site catering from Farmyard Kitchen. Spectators are also welcome to bring their own picnic and all dogs must be kept on a lead. Entry is free.
Borde Hill Unaffiliated Horse Trials, West Sussex - 13 and 14 August
Classes at 70, 80, 90, 100 and 105cms. Internet entries preferred at www.bdwp.co.uk.
Ladies’ Evening at Fontwell Races, West Sussex - 18 August
Jumps racing from 3pm followed by live music with tribute band Abba Revival.
Firle Place International Horse Trials and Country Fair, East Sussex - 20 and 21 August
This is the 40th anniversary of the popular equestrian event at Firle Place. Highlights include eventing, dog show, gun dog scurry trade stands, fun fair and farmers’ market.
The All England Jumping Championships, Hickstead, West Sussex - 1-4 September
Gripping competition for riders from amateur to national level, with the top prize being the £6,000 1.40m Grand Prix. For less experienced riders, there is the invaluable opportunity to jump some of Hickstead’s famous natural obstacles – a brilliant introduction for a future Derby star.
Gridwork with Donald Kear, Sands Farm, Northland Road, Horsham - 29 September
Gridwork training with Donald Kear. First session 11am. £15 per person per session. Contact Carole Porter on 01403 741355.
