Badminton
to Stick To Present Format
The
Organizers of the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials announced today (14th
June 2004) that the Event wuld not change its format for future Events.
Event
Directo Hugh Thomas commented, "When the International Equestrian Federation
decided to drop the Steeplechase and Roads and Tracks from the Cross Country Day
for the Olympics, on grounds of cost, we supported the change. We also recognize
that the slightly less taxing form of the sport may well be appropriate when it
is necessary to generate the widest possible international participation. However,
we have always believed that the 'full' sport provides a greater all round test
of horse and rider and we were very disappointed when the Federation also dropped
these phases for its own World Equestrian Games.
"We
have consulted very widely about the future and it is clear that the vast majority
of participants in the sport want us to continue to offer the ultimate challenge.
Badminton was founded to prepare horses and riders for the rigours of the Olympic
Games; since then it has evolved into the World's premier Three Day Event and
we intend to ensure that riding at and eventually winning Badminton remains the
great aspiration for all youngsters entering the sport.
"To
compete for the Mitsubishi Motors Trophy is, of course, an exclusive privilege
that has been earned by excellent performance; but, we know from the number of
'first timers' in recent events that the new, young talent can indeed come to
the fore at Badminton - if you are good enough, you can compete! Equally, the
Roll of Honor includes the very best horses and riders of each generation, acknowledged
to be so partly because of their success here.
"We
are consulting with our colleagues at Lexington and Burghley as to how we might
widen and deepen the links between these top '4 star' Events, building on the
success of the Rolex Grand Slam, won by Pippa Funnell, in 2003. Possibilities
such as a 'Masters' or 'Super League' series will be explored, so that the top
riders are well rewarded for success at the top events.
Our
sport has evolved over many years and we at Badminton have no desire to stay rooted
in the past. We will remain flexible to meet challenges from whatever quarter,
including the British weather!"
