Burghley Horse Trials: Star-Studded Field Takes Shape Ahead of September Event
The anticipation for the 2024 Defender Burghley Horse Trials is reaching fever pitch, with a growing list of entries confirming the event's status as a true equestrian spectacle. As of today, 64 entries have been received, featuring a star-studded line-up of world-class riders and their top horses.
Notable entries include Defender Kentucky CCI5
winners Oliver Townend (GBR) and Cooley Rosalent, as well as 2024 MARS Badminton victors Caroline Powell (NZL) and Greenacres Special Cavalier. The reigning European Champion and newly-crowned Olympic team gold medalist, Ros Canter, has entered both her Paris partner, Lordships Graffalo, and 2023 Les Etoiles de Pau champion Izilot DHI. Ireland's Austin O'Connor has also confirmed his participation with his CCI5* winner, Colorado Blue.
This means five of the six most recent CCI5
winners will be competing for another prestigious title at Burghley, promising an intense battle for the top spot.
The full entry list is available on the Burghley Horse Trials website and will be updated as entries are received. A final roster update is expected next week after the closing date on Friday.
In the lead-up to the event, Eventing Nation will be providing a detailed Form Guide, offering insights into each competitor and their chances of success. This guide will be published the week before the Burghley Horse Trials, which take place from 5-8 September.
Beyond the competitive action, Burghley offers a wide range of activities for attendees. The schedule features Masterclass demonstrations from renowned equestrian figures such as Carl Hester and William and Pippa Funnell, the Dubarry Burghley Young Event Horse competition, and the entertaining Shetland Grand National. The full provisional timetable is accessible on the event website.
For those unable to attend in person, a Burghley TV pass provides access to live streams, replays, and archive footage from previous years. The pass costs around $25 USD and offers a year's worth of equestrian entertainment.
The Defender Burghley Horse Trials promises an exciting and action-packed event, attracting both seasoned eventing enthusiasts and newcomers alike. With a world-class field of competitors and a diverse range of activities, Burghley 2024 is set to be a truly memorable occasion.
