Those unable to attend the 2007 British Jumping Derby Meeting (28 June – July 1) will be able to watch it at home, thanks to a three year agreement between Hickstead and BBC TV.
The television audience for this year’s DFS Derby and Bunn Leisure Speed Derby topped one million for the second year running, prompting the BBC to make a longer term commitment to British show jumping.
The British Derby Meeting will stay in its new position at the opening of the season. “It represents the very best of international show jumping, but more than that, it’s one of the great sporting events of the British summer,” said Michael Cole, deputy editor of BBC’s Grandstand programme. “With the signature Derby Bank it’s an event that appeals to those who love the sport, but also to those who come to show jumping just once a year.”
Hickstead now has major television coverage at both meetings, with Sky Sports broadcasting throughout the 2007 Royal International Horse Show (25 -29 July). The 2007 season will close with the National Schools and Pony Club Jumping Championships on Wednesday 8 August.
