This year’s British Open Show Jumping Championships (the British Open), 16th-19th April at Birmingham’s NEC, is reporting record sales for the Friday performance which was pronounced a sell-out yesterday. However, Organiser, Grandstand Event Management Ltd, has today announced that a limited number of promoter’s reserved tickets will be released today. To book online click here, or call the NEC Box Office on 0844 581 1301.
Those planning to visit the event are advised to book at their earliest convenience. Limited tickets are also available for the rest of the week (Thursday 16th, Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th), however certain price bands are not available and the NEC Box Office is receiving record interest.
This prestigious indoor equestrian event returns to the NEC, Birmingham from 16th – 19th April with a spectacular programme of events. World-class riders from Britain and abroad have been invited to compete in this unique Championship competition held over four days in April. Leading British rider and two times Champion, Robert Whitaker, will return to defend his title as the 2008 British Open Show Jumping Champion and compete in the top speed and jump-off classes on offer. The crowd favourite Puissance competition, featuring the legendary red wall, takes place during Friday’s performance.
There is more to keep you entertained alongside the show jumping, including on Saturday evening the world’s top eventers will compete at Britain’s most prestigious indoor cross country event. Famous faces such as William Fox-Pitt and Zara Phillips have been invited to participate in this hugely popular discipline. On Sunday Katie Price will battle it out with Gladiator Amy Guy, aka Siren, in the British Open’s first Celebrity Arena Polo match. Comprising of two chukkas, the Polo match will give thousands of expected visitors an insight into the “moves” and “shots” the celebrities have learnt in preparation for the fierce competition.
Returning to headline the entertainment this year is the Metropolitan Police Activity Ride sponsored by Equimax Tabs, and back by popular demand, witness a totally unique and inspiring display of unsurpassed horsemanship by the world-famous Jean François Pignon and his magical white horses. But that’s not all……The British Open will also present a broad spectrum of equestrian entertainment such as the exhilarating Osborne Refrigerators Scurry Racing, high-speed Barrel Racing and a pas de deux to music Dressage display performed by the much acclaimed Andrew Gould and Daniel Timson.
NEW FOR 2009
New Parelli Zone
A number of activities have been planned for the Parelli Zone including seminars and demonstrations on Natural Horsemanship and Parelli training methods.
New Shopping Pavilion
The Show layout has also been improved! Trade stands will now be located in the new, enlarged Shopping Pavilion which will be situated directly adjacent to the International Arena and the Parelli Zone. Selling everything from tack to tweeds under one roof, it’s the perfect place for all your equestrian needs.
New Classes
NATIONAL SHOW JUMPING – Amateur Championship
SHOWING – Working Hunter Grand Prix
PONY CLUB – Home International Team Show Jumping
Whichever day you choose to visit the British Open you are guaranteed a fantastic equestrian experience and remember, tickets for Thursday and Friday performances are valid all-day allowing you to soak up the atmosphere from morning to night.
The British Open Show Jumping Championships takes place at the NEC, Birmingham from Thursday 16th – Sunday 19th April 2009. For tickets, call the Box Office on 0844 581 1301 or click here.