Scurry driving will return to form part of the exciting line-up of international show jumping and equestrian entertainment at this year’s British Open (16th – 19th April at Birmingham’s NEC). The thrilling Scurry competition sponsored by Osborne Refrigerators is one of the most exhilarating equestrian sports for both the participant and spectator.
Pairs of ponies pull a scurry vehicle round a twisting course at break neck speed and the fastest pair to go clear wins. The aim of the competition is for the drivers to steer their ponies through a series of gates made up of between 12 to 14 pairs of cones. Each cone has a ball placed on top so if a pony or scurry cart makes contact with the cone the ball will fall off. Should a ball be knocked from a cone a penalty of 4 seconds will be incurred, for every subsequent ball which is knocked down a further 4 seconds will be added. The winner is the team with the quickest overall time.
Managing Director of Osborne Refrigerators, Jeff Osborne, a keen scurry driver who will be one of those at Birmingham to contest the title, said, “Osborne Refrigerators are delighted to be involved with the British Open Scurry Challenge again this year. The Show gets better and better, the atmosphere is fantastic and the crowds really get behind their favourite competitors and ponies through the gates, to the finishing line.”
Osborne Refrigerators, established in Bognor Regis, have been at their West Sussex base for more than 45 years and are the leading British manufacturer of refrigerators designed for the chilling and storage of wines, beers, cold beverages and foodstuffs. In 2008 the company celebrates its 23rd year of involvement with scurry driving through its countrywide support of the event.
The Osborne Refrigerators Scurry Challenge will take place at the British Open on Thursday, Friday and Saturday with the Final on Sunday. For tickets book online, or call the Box Office on 0844 581 1301.