Press Release for immediate release:
9 MAY 2008
A vast display of military vehicles is among the attractions that have captivated crowds at this week’s Royal Windsor Horse Show.
The gathering of what is one of the largest ever displays of its kind has been a prelude to the first Windsor Castle Royal Tattoo, the military musical spectacular that concludes tomorrow night (10th May) against the dramatic floodlit backdrop of Windsor Castle in honour of the heroic efforts and sacrifice of our soldiers.
On show during the daytime is a selection of the latest armoured vehicles. These include Wimiks, Mastiffs, Vectras, Bulldogs, Warrior Ambulances, Scimitars and Land Rover Scouts. For military enthusiasts, this has been a first chance to see at close hand some of the equipment and military vehicles that have seen service in modern theatres of war from Iraq to Afganistan and Sierra Leone. Soldiers who have served in recent conflicts have been sharing their experiences with members of the public.
Although the display is a new departure, Royal Windsor Horse Show has strong military connections. In 1943, Count Robert Orssich and Mr Geoffrey Cross founded the Royal Windsor Horse Show. Inspired by the 'Wings for Victory' campaign, they set about organising a Horse and Dog Show to raise money for the war effort.
During the four days of competition several military competitions take place involving members of the armed services including the popular spectacle of the Skill-at-Arms and tent pegging contests. The action culminates on Saturday with Her Majesty The Queen’s Challenge Cup for Services Teams Jumping. A close-fought competition was won by the Royal Navy’s A team of who saw off teams from the Defence Animal Centre in second and the Army Medical Services team in third place.
The military horse power has been competing for attention with the cream of British international show jumping. In what is a dress rehearsal for next year’s International Equestrian Federation (FEI) European Show Jumping and Dressage Championships, a total of 14 British riders has been competing against riders from Ireland, France, Sweden, Spain, Holland, Portugal, Russia, Jordan and Argentina.
Simon Brooks-Ward, organiser of Royal Windsor Horse Show said the advent of both the Windsor Castle Royal Tattoo and preparations for next year’s Show Jumping and Dressage Championships which will be held at the Royal Windsor Showground in August 2009, had brought significant developments to the infrastructure of this year’s show.
“We have increased places in the stands around the main arena by more than 2000 seats which means that more of our spectators can catch the action. We have installed several miles of metal tracking walkways all around the showground which is all part of improving conditions for spectators and exhibitors alike.”
For the first time, the action in the main arena has been relayed live on a vast TV screen.
“Royal Windsor is already one of the most prestigious equestrian events in the world. All these elements are part of our vision to become a mini-Aachen, a first-class international show jumping venue.”
ENDS
For more information on Royal Windsor Horse Show, please
contact the press officer, Elizabeth Peplow tel: 07825
082595 email: e.peplow@btinternet.com
