Posted: 12th November 2013 | Back to news feed
YOUR Horse Live 2013 was simply THE place to be this November with celebrity demonstrations galore, a host of new displays and the massive shopping halls, where trade stand space was sold out weeks before the event opened.
Visitors flocked to the Countrywide Main Arena at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire for an exciting two days which saw dressage stars Maria and Michael Eilberg team up with father Ferdi, eventing legend Lucinda Fredericks showcase her in depth knowledge and brilliant partnership with Headley Britannia and entertaining duo Geoff Billington and Oliver Townend pass on their immense skill while having fun along the way.
Geoff and Oliver proved as entertaining as ever with their sharp wit and comedy banter. The crowds gathered to see the pair as they shared their knowledge of developing and competing horses across two different disciplines, show jumping and eventing. Their demonstration proved hugely popular with Oliver showcasing his natural talent when riding without a bridle.
Dressage stars Maria and Michael Eilberg wowed the crowds with their stunning dressage display on training and competing to the highest level. Michael’s top ride Half Moon Delphi was a big hit, the grey mare wowing the crowds with her spectacular movement.
Lucinda Fredericks’ 10-year-old daughter Ellie also had spectators in awe as she show jumped the wonderful Headley Britannia, well known for her illustrious career.
Visitor Rebecca Shaw from Northampton said: “Lucinda’s demonstration made so much sense and was easy to understand. It really was one of the highlights at Your Horse Live for me.”
The Countrywide Arena Two saw a wide range of demonstrations and displays including Kelly Marks tackling common behavioural problems, Jason Webb sharing advice on starting young horses, Classical equitation with Heather Moffett, show jumping displays from Jay Halim, helping retrain ex-race horses with Karen Dixon, while Mark Smith helped riders gain confidence over jumps and on the flat.
Exhibitor Jenny Beynon of Parelli said: “We had a great two days the stand was busy with a constant flow of people wanting both advice and to buy products. We always enjoy Your Horse Live it is a brilliant event.”
Added Dave Darley of Jeffries: “Over the two days we spoke to both horse owners and members of the trade. Under one roof you see so many people and it is a great way to get feedback on your products and services.”
The new Hickstead Horse Feeds Horse Answers Zone was very popular with everything from nutrition, showing and dressage, behavioural science and advice on keeping veterans all discussed through fun and fascinating one to one talks with a host of experts.
The Equine Learning Zone was also a new introduction this year and saw a fun filled and informative packed schedule with advice on everything from biomechanics, body language and the Masterson Method, to veterinary care, nutrition and the Tellington Touch.
new to Your Horse Live this year was the Norbrook Rescue Village. Visitors flocked to see the work of some fantastic equine charities and meet the horses, ponies and donkeys that were looking for new homes.
Chief Inspector Cathy Hyde of the RSPCA said: “The four ponies that we took to Your Horse Live had all been the subject of cruelty and neglect. We were looking for five star homes for them and are really pleased to say four fabulous homes were found for them during the event. This new initiative was a great success thanks to Your Horse Live and really exceeded our expectations.”
Exhibitor Debbie Harris of HorseHage said: “Our stand was busy all day long. Visitors to Your Horse Live really want to learn more about nutrition and how to feed their horses and ponies.”
With more than 300 exhibitors, Your Horse Live proved to be a shopping extravaganza offering visitors an unprecedented opportunity to shop for all things equestrian and more.
The BETA Best Stand Awards proved as difficult to judge as ever but the worthy winners were Best Large Stand – Countrywide, Runner-up Large Stand – Wow Saddles, Best Small Stand – Keyflow (UK) Ltd, Runner-up Small Stand – Wendy Darker Arts.
Your Horse Live 2013 once again provided visitors and exhibitors with two fantastic days celebrating the horse world and the success that have been achieved within British equestrianism.
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