Ros Canter and Izilot DHI, CCI4*-S winners at Defender Blair Castle International
After 35 years as one of Britain’s favourite and unique eventing competitions, the Blair Castle International Horse Trials, which also hosted the FEI European Championships in 2015, will take place at Blair Castle in Scotland for the last time in 2024.
The Defender Blair Castle International Horse Trials in Scotland will go ahead this year as planned in a farewell celebration from 22nd – 25th August 2024 but it is the end of an era says Alec Lochore, Event Director of Blair International Horse Trials
“This event became a phenomenal international success and has had unstinting support from the Blair Castle team.
“Of course, it is the end of an era for everyone involved – sponsors, competitors, volunteers, spectators and many more – and we are determined to sign off with a tremendous celebration at this year’s event in August.
“At this stage it is too early to say what the future holds. There are a significant number of equestrian bodies involved and discussions to explore options will have to take place.
“The equestrian community is extremely grateful to the Blair Castle team for its outstanding commitment over so many years.”
The farmland on which the trials are held is increasing its involvement in regenerative agriculture and in future the land will require to be managed all year round in a way that is in accordance with its environmental aims.
Bertie Troughton, Resident Trustee of Blair Castle, says that "It has been a great pleasure and privilege being at the centre of Scottish equestrianism for so many years. We are bowing out after this year with huge gratitude to everyone who made the event so special. We are looking forward to hosting a fantastic event later this year which will be a fitting tribute to hosting the event for 35 years.”
