Future Derby Hopefuls get New Class at All England Jumping Championships

If horses are your passion and showjumping your choice of sport then the new showjumping class, named after Hickstead founder Douglas Bunn, may be your stepping stone to the stars.

The new class has been introduced to the schedule of the All England Jumping Championships 6th - 9th September, which is designed to give vital experience to potential future Hickstead Derby stars.

The Douglas Bunn 1.35m Challenge class will include a number of Hickstead's permanent obstacles, providing an invaluable opportunity for riders to come and try some of the Derby fences at a lower height.

As a change to last year's schedule, the 1.40m Open classes at this meeting will not include any of Hickstead's permanent obstacles, and with the exception of the water jump, neither will the £6,000 All England Grand Prix.

The Grand Prix forms the finale to the All England Jumping Championships, and this year the top three horses will automatically qualify for the Templant Events Queen Elizabeth II Cup at the 2013 Longines Royal International Horse Show.

Hickstead's National show, now in its second year, has classes for all levels, with height classes starting from 1m, amateur finals at 1.10m and 1.20m level, going up to the £6,000 All England Grand Prix.

Riders will also have the chance to qualify for the finals of their classes, which will be held in the International Arena.

Hickstead is known for its excellent after-show parties, and the All England Jumping Championships will be no different with a choice of bars and restaurants, plus a full entertainment programme including live music and DJs, to entertain competitors during the evenings. There will also be a select number of trade stands, with admission totally free to spectators.

Entries close on 12th August 2012, and can be made online via the Hickstead website now.