The outstanding partnership of Laura Collett and London 52, who have scored a hat-trick of wins in the showpiece TopSpec CCI4*-S at Bicton International Horse Trials, are entered again for the Devon event (28 – 31 May) where they could have a crack at a record fourth successive victory.
The Olympic gold medallists and European champions have won all three running’s of Bicton’s showpiece class, in 2023, 2024 and 2025 and are at the top of their form after a convincing win at the same level at Belsay in Northumberland.
Last year, Laura also spearheaded the home team’s victory in the British leg of the FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ series. The world number three in eventing also competes the grey mare Hester.
The TopSpec CCI4*-S which incorporates the British leg of the FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ has attracted a strong international entry, with a clutch of young riders from the US gaining experience of the European circuit, plus New Zealanders, including Tayla Mason, recently a brilliant sixth at Badminton, and Japanese and Irish riders including Devon-based Padraig McCarthy.
There will be more than 300 horses going across country over the renowned, spectacular viewing tracks at Bicton, designed by Helen West.
Two of Britain’s highest ranked under-25 riders in the world, Elizabeth Barratt and Isabelle Cook, are contesting a competitive Succeed CCIY3*-L for young riders, and some of the world’s top athletes, including dual Olympic gold medallist Tom McEwen and Australian Olympian Kevin McNab are bringing young horses for a 70-strong Charles Owen CCI2*-L.
“We are looking forward to welcoming so many nations for what promises to be a great weekend of competition,” said Andrew Fell, Co-Director of Bicton Arena. “We specialise in producing exciting cross-country courses on good footing and with excellent viewing for spectators and are delighted so many top riders are coming.”
Beyond the sporting action, Bicton International Horse Trials offers a full programme of entertainment across the weekend. Visitors can enjoy thrilling displays from the Knights of Middle England alongside a packed demo arena featuring highlights such as Equine Giveaways Shetland Racing, the ever-popular Injured Jockeys Fund Jock & Junior, a new Big Screen to watch all the action, and much more throughout the day. The weekend also includes the hugely popular family dog show on both Saturday and Sunday, as well as a special display from 2024 Crufts Champion Lorna Hayes and her canine partner Nora.
The dedicated Kids’ Corner offers inflatables, face painting and crafts, with food, drink and facilities close by, creating the perfect space to relax and enjoy the day together. Alongside fantastic tradestands, visitors can make a full day of it, with picnic parking available to enjoy the Devon countryside. Following a successful launch in 2025, the Owners, Riders and Grooms Lounge will return, joined by a new Members Lounge for 2026, further enhancing the visitor experience.
Get your tickets via the website www.bictonhorse.com and 10 and under go free. Full entries list and live results can be found at www.eventingscores.co.uk. Live action is being streamed by Clip My Horse www.clipmyhorse.tv/en_GB/