The new FEI “without steeplechase” eventing format will be the theme of the second Spillers Open Eventing Forum for event riders, owners, trainers and breeders, which will take place at Addington Manor EC, Bucks on Monday 21 February 2005.
The forum is the only event of its kind in the UK and gives enthusiasts the chance to discuss the challenges posed by the new format with some of eventing’s top names and expert members of the Spillers panel.
The action will begin with an opportunity to get to grips with the new FEI eventing format dressage test. A leading event rider will ride the test in front of international dressage judge Frances Verbeek, who will comment on the performance. Top dressage trainer Ferdi Eilberg will then work with the rider to demonstrate training methods to improve the test, before it is ridden again.
Dr Ellen Singer, part of the University of Liverpool Research Group, will then reveal the results of the BE-funded comparative study at Weston Park two-star on the effects on the horse of the long and the short formats.
Before lunch, Rachel Williams, research coordinator from Hartpury College, will be discussing training methods, while Ruth Bishop, technical director at Spillers, will advise on feeding for the long and short formats.
In the afternoon top Irish show jumper and trainer John Ledingham will be discussing methods of training eventers for the show jumping phase of the competition, while Ian Stark will look at improving cross-country techniques using arena fences, with assistance from some of the UK’s leading international eventers.
Tickets, priced at £45, are available in advance. For more information visit: www.openeventingforum.com or contacting Emma Hunter (tel: 01767 651664) between 9am and 5pm.
