Scotland’s grassroots event riders will have a new competition to look forward to next year with the launch of Forgandenny Horse Trials.
Hitting the calendar on the second weekend of April, in the spring of 2016, the new event is the brainchild of British Eventing Scotland chairman Douglas Edward.
After months in the planning, the new competition was revealed during the arena eventing finals at Blair Castle.
“We deliberately kept the news of this competition quiet so that we could build the excitement at Blair,” Douglas told The Courier.
Indeed, many of Forgandenny’s newly constructed portable fences were used for the Blair arena eventing and working hunter competitions (pictured).
“There’s clearly a demand for more BE competitions north of the Border,” Douglas continued. “As BE Scotland chair and as a rider myself I know what I like to see from a competition and hopefully Forgandenny will provide something for everyone in that respect.”
The one-day-event, which will take place at Baxterknowe Farm just a stone’s throw from Strathallan School on the B935 will launch at BE80 to Novice level.
“It’s our intention to have a nice, flowing and inviting track for all levels of grassroots competition,” Douglas said.
“Obviously we are mindful that it will be at the start of the season so whilst we will have sufficient questions for those looking to progress up the levels, there will be black flag alternatives to give everyone a good start to their year.”
The new horse trials have also benefited from input from Blair organiser Alec Lochore, whilst Peter Wilson has been responsible for much of the cross country build and construction.
“The groundwork is all done,” said Douglas. “We have ditches and trakheners in place and the ground work and layout all in-hand. We have both purchased and modified some fences from other horse trials as well as built many of our own new challenges also.
“There’s still plenty to go, but now the season has drawn to a close we’ll be able to keep on track with the build programme.”
According to Mr Edward, the event will benefit from a compact layout, with the dressage, showjumping, lorry park and trade area all on flat ground by the roadside.
Meanwhile, the cross country will envelop a rise to higher ground and has been built over one expansive and undulating area of grassland.
“We’re looking forward to the year ahead,” said Douglas. “We’re ideally located in Central Scotland so we hope riders from both the north and south of the country will be able to support the event.”