Nestled in the heart of Gloucestershire, the Badminton House stands as a testament to the evolution of English architecture and aristocracy. The story of the estate begins in 1608, purchased by the Worcester’s, and serves as a panoramic backdrop to what would become one of the most prestigious events in the equestrian world—the Badminton International Horse Show.
A Storied Ground
The transformation from a familial home into an equestrian arena par excellence was not immediate. Badminton House witnessed extensive renovations through the centuries, under the watchful eyes of the Dukes of Beaufort. Their passion for architecture and their adopted role as stewards of the land laid the groundwork for an event that seamlessly blends the heritage of the estate with the pinnacle of competitive eventing.
In 1949, the grounds of Badminton House played host to the inaugural Badminton Horse Trials. Initially meant as a training event, it has since evolved, climbing the ranks to achieve its status as a premier event in the global equestrian calendar. The involvement of the Beaufort family, notably the late David Somerset, has ensured that the trials remain steeped in tradition while also fostering innovation and excellence in equestrian sport.
Marking a Milestone: The 75th Anniversary
The 75th Anniversary of the Badminton Horse Show is not merely a moment in time but a celebration of legacy, achievement, and the future of equestrian sports. This year, we take a step back to marvel at how far we have come and leap forward into the promise of what lies ahead.
The Invitation to Excellence
Featuring 90 entries from 11 nations, including 19 first timers, this year's competition heralds an unrivalled showcase of talent, grit, and grace. Esteemed riders such as Oliver Townend, Ros Canter, William Fox-Pitt, Piggy March, and Boyd Martin are set to mark their place in history, contending for the prestigious title amid the scenic Badminton estate.
Oliver Townend Eyes the Rolex Grand Slam at the Upcoming MARS Badminton Horse Trials
Oliver Townend, currently holding the prestigious title of world number one, is on the cusp of making history at the MARS Badminton Horse Trials, happening between May 8-12. This event presents him with the golden chance to secure the US$350,000 Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing, a feat that has become legendary among equestrian enthusiasts.
Recently, Townend celebrated a significant milestone victory at Kentucky, USA, riding the 10-year-old mare, Cooley Rosalent. This win marked his 100th five-star appearance and his eighth victory at this elite level, a record that includes triumphing at Badminton back in 2009. In addition, last September witnessed Townend winning at Burghley on Ballaghmor Class, a horse that has previously been a runner-up at Badminton twice and is his chosen mount for this year’s challenge.
The Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing bonus is an elusive goal, awarded only to those who consecutively win the trio of the world's most challenging five-star events - Badminton, Burghley, and Kentucky. Since its inception in 1999, only two riders have managed to clinch this prestigious title: Britain’s Pippa Funnell in 2003 and German double Olympic champion, Michael Jung, who captured it at Badminton in 2016.
Badminton 2024 Event Schedule
Provisional Schedule for 2024
Local Championship: Voltaire Design Grassroots Championships
Tuesday, May 7th
- Dressage
- Location: The Slaits
- Time: 9.00 am – 5.00 pm
Wednesday, May 8th
- Multi-Discipline (Dressage, Show Jumping, Cross Country)
- Location: Various within grounds
- Time: 9.00 am – 4.30 pm
- Prize Presentation
- Location: Badminton House
- Time: 6.00 pm (approx.)
International Tournament
Wednesday, May 8th
- Gates Open: 8.00 am / Tradestands Open: 9.00 am
- Dubarry Burghley Young Event Horse Class
- Location: The Slaits
- Time: 8.30 am – 4.00 pm (approx.)
- First Horse Inspection
- Location: North Front Badminton House
- Time: 4.30 pm
Thursday, May 9th
- Gates Open: 8.00 am / Trade stands Open: 9.00 am
- Dressage
- Time: 9.00 am – 5.00 pm (approx.)
- Dressage Display
- Time: 12.30 pm (approx.)
Friday, May 10th
- Gates Open: 8.00 am / Trade stands Open: 9.00 am
- Dressage
- Time: 9.00 am – 5.00 pm (approx.)
- Dressage Display
- Time: 12.30 pm (approx.)
- Stallion Display (Post-Dressage)
Saturday, May 11th
- Gates Open: 7.00 am / Trade stands Open: 9.00 am
- Past Winners Parade & Photo Call
- Location: Main Arena
- Time: 10.00 am
- Shetland Pony Grand National
- Location: Main Arena
- First Rounds Time: 10.30 am
- Final Time: 10.50 am
- Cross Country Test
- Time: 11.30 am – 5.00 pm (approx.)
Sunday, May 12th
- Gates Open: 7.30 am / Trade stands Open: 9.00 am
- Final Horse Inspection
- Location: North Front Badminton House
- Time: 8.30 am
- Jumping Test (First Part)
- Time: 11.30 am
- Band Display & Competitor Parade
- Time: 2.05 pm
- Jumping Test (Top 20)
- Time: 2.55 pm
- Parade of the Duke of Beaufort’s Hounds & Prize Presentation
- Time: 4.00 pm onwards
Beyond the Competition
The 75th anniversary is replete with events designed to honour the storied past while celebrating the vibrant present:
- Opening Ceremony & Gala: These events pay homage to the trials' history and the visionary figures who have shaped its legacy.
- Special Cross-Country Course: A design that reflects the trials' 75-year heritage, featuring iconic and new challenging elements.
- Legacy Walk & Exhibition of Memorabilia: These tours and displays guide guests through pivotal moments in the event's history, offering rich narratives and cherished artifacts.
- Interactive Timeline: A digital and on-site installation that tells the story of the Badminton Horse Trials, entwining past triumphs with present feats.
Preserving the Legacy
In chronicling the origins and the monumental achievements of the Badminton Horse Show, we're reminded of the enduring spirit of both the estate and the event. The historical tapestry of Badminton House, woven through centuries of architectural innovation and familial legacy, sets a dramatic stage for an event that transcends mere competition. It embodies the progression of equestrian sports and the values of excellence, resilience, and tradition.
The 75th anniversary of the Badminton Horse Show is a landmark not just for those who participate but for the broader community of equestrian enthusiasts worldwide. It serves as a bridge connecting the storied past of the Badminton estate with the vibrant future of horse eventing.
We invite you to join us in this celebration, to witness the spectacle, and to be part of history in the making. Here's to 75 years of equestrian excellence at the Badminton Horse Show, with many more to come.
Funky Readers are proud to be part of this historic equestrian moment in time. Come and say hello we are at trade stand 259 on Beaufort Way. We hope to see you there!
Ciao for now!
Martin and Judith