Bill Levett tackles one of Blenheim's imposing fences in 2011 Photo: Libby Law
Not only will there be a new course at Blenheim Palace this year but spectators will be able to do a ‘virtual course walk’ with the course designer and riders whenever it suits them
The Fidelity Blenheim Horse Trials will be incorporating QR codes onto the fence name boards of all fences on their new exciting cross country course. The codes will allow spectators with smart phones to scan the codes and hear the course designer and leading riders’ thoughts about the fence and how to ride it.
A quick turnaround from camera to website once the Ground Jury have signed off Eric Winter’s new course will be required, as with lots of new and reconditioned fences, plus changes to the route, there is bound to be lots for them to consider.
“QR (Quick Response) codes are frequently used on products,” explains Event Director Mandy Hervieu. “But we thought there was a great opportunity to use them to give spectators more information on the fences; including the thoughts of the course designer and the rider’s opinion of the course.”
With the Ground Jury approving the course just hours before it is officially ‘open’ on Wednesday 5th September there is very little time to make the videos and upload them to the website. However, the Blenheim team are confident it can be done and that the QR codes will be a popular benefit with the thousands of spectators who walk the course.
“Traditionally course walks with riders have been very popular, but these are not always at a time that is convenient. QR codes enable anyone with a smart phone to benefit from a ‘course walk’ with the Course Designer and the riders,” adds Hervieu.
Thanks to the extension of its title sponsorship by Fidelity Worldwide Investments for the next three years, the organisers have been able to re-invest in some new fences, improve the going and introduce other enhancements for this year’s running
“2012 is going to be an exciting year for Blenheim’s cross country course as several new fences and changes of route will come into play, giving a new feel to parts of the course. David Evans is busy interpreting my designs and there will certainly be some new questions this year,” explains course designer, Eric Winter.
In addition to the cross country course improvements the 2012 Fidelity Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials will also be introducing:
- Some changes in layout and to the main event timetable, including a later start (approx 11am) to the cross country on both days of the weekend
- Later start and finish times for the displays and demonstrations in the attractions arena
- More opportunities for grass roots riders to participate
- More opportunities for the CCI/CIC Eventers to take part in a new bareback jumping class, in addition to the extremely popular Amtrust High Jump Challenge.
The Fidelity Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials takes place from 6th - 9th September 2012. Thursday 6th and Friday 7th September are the best days for spectators to walk the whole course, see all the new fences and route and use the QR codes.
For those unable to attend we’ll be bringing you all the action on An Eventful Life
