Blenheim is voted the best by world's top riders (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Blenheim is voted the best by world's top riders

THE Blenheim Petplan International Horse Trials has been voted the best event of the 2003 and 2004 seasons by the world's top riders who were canvassed by L'Annee Hippique, the International Equestrian Federation's annually published review.

Blenheim, a three-star level three-day event established in 1990, gained 28 points, and was well ahead of Lexington, USA, on 17 points and Badminton, third on ten.

And Blenheim's status as a world-class venue was recognised by the FEI two years ago when it was awarded the 2005 FEI European Eventing Cham-pionships which take place on September 8-11.

"It's always particularly rewarding when one's efforts are recognised by the riders, who are often the most critical," said event director Mike Etherington-Smith.

He added, "The support we have received to run the Europeans means we are able to continue with ongoing improvements to Blenheim which we hope will keep it at the very top in the world for years to come."

Each year, the organising committee of the International Horse Trials at Blenheim chooses a charity which is both local and relevant.

This year it has chosen The Blue Cross, whose headquarters and equine centre are at nearby Burford. The charity will also have a stand in the World of the Horse tent.

To book advance tickets at discount for the event go on line at www.blenheim-horse.co.uk or telephone 0870 609 8012.