Trailblazers introduces Combined Training

By Justine Thompson

Event diary

09 February 2010 12:16

Trailblazers is to introduce Combined Training with a final at its 2011 championships.

Backed by Spillers, a long-time supporter of this mix of dressage and show jumping, Combined Training joins show jumping, dressage and showing as the fourth Trailblazers national series sponsored by South Essex Insurance Brokers.
 
Trailblazers Combined Training first rounds will start at many of its 60-plus approved show centres from May 2010.

Second rounds, acting as qualifiers for championship finals at Stoneleigh, will take place in the spring of 2011. 
 
Combined training is judged on accumulated scores from a dressage test plus a show jumping round.

Trailblazers is offering classes for junior riders aged 16 and under and seniors. Juniors and seniors may ride horses or ponies, provided the partnership is appropriate. 
 
At each Trailblazers combined training show, a selection of the following classes will be offered:

• Preliminary dressage test with show jumping up to 70cm 
•  A different Preliminary dressage test with show jumping up to 80cm 
• Novice dressage test with show jumping up to 80cm 
•  A different Novice dressage test with show jumping up to 90cm 
• Elementary dressage test with show jumping up to 90cm 

Competitors may enter as many classes as they wish at each show. The choice of fence heights and dressage tests is intended to enable those with less experience to stay within their comfort zone, moving up the levels when they feel ready.
 
"We are delighted that Spillers has chosen to transfer its loyal support of Combined Training competitions to Trailblazers," said Norman Bargh, chairman of Trailblazers.
 
"We expect Combined Training to appeal to a broad range of competitors from across all disciplines. The format will enable riders and their horses and ponies to have a really good day out at each show."