Member Article

Olympic showjumping stars to join celebrity guests at Bolesworth spectacular

GIANTS from the world of showjumping and horse racing will appear at this year’s unmissable Bolesworth International.

With just days to go until the much-anticipated five-day spectacular - held at the 400,000 sq metre Bolesworth Castle estate, near Chester and Wrexham - a host of star names have been unveiled.

Legendary jockey Sir AP McCoy will front a sold-out business networking session next Friday alongside former England and Real Madrid striker Michael Owen, while showjumping Olympians Geoff Billington, Nicola Wilson, Gemma Stevens and defending Bolesworth Grand Prix winner Louise Saywell are to compete in high-class equestrian competitions.

Other well-known names from the equine arena include Joe Stockdale, Sienna Charles, Anthony Condon, Guy Williams and Angelie Von Essen, and inspirational 14-time Paralympic gold medallist Sir Lee Pearson CBE is to present the prizes for the Trooping the Colour Charity Park Ride in aid of the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) on Thursday.

That same day - and fresh from winning promotion back to the English Football League with the support of Hollywood owners Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds, Wrexham AFC chief executive Fleur Robinson will join TV presenter, journalist and author Louise Minchin and Ernst and Young tax strategist Victoria Price for the Women in Business Day.

Bolesworth’s Managing Director Nina Barbour said the packed lifestyle and equestrian programme has something for everyone, as they aim to achieve 250,000 annual visitors ahead of the Castle’s 200th anniversary in 2028.

“From Wednesday to Sunday we have so much happening, especially on Friday onwards when we have more than 100 shops and attractions available,” said Nina.

“Whether it’s a relaxing day with the family, action and adventure, live entertainment, the equestrian competitions, or the opportunity to network, we have it all.

“And from the showjumping perspective some of the biggest names on the international circuit will be here, to compete and attend other events, so there is the opportunity to get up close and meet some of your favourite stars.

“Tickets are selling fast so we urge people to get in touch soon - whether it’s for one day or the whole event, we look forward to seeing you next week!”

The event also features live music, with DJs Trevor Nelson and Phoebe d’Abo, renowned soul outfit The Brand New Heavies, and Rick Parfitt Jr and the RPJ Band set to take the stage on Friday and Saturday night.

Elsewhere, there will be barbecue masterclasses, an extensive shopping village, an epic kids’ zone with funfair, inflatables, land and water zorbs, a wildlife zone, beekeeping, falconry, pony rides, stunt horses, an A-list auction and much more, with camping pitches still available for anyone wanting to stay for longer.

And a new EV and Hybrid Experience zone will see nine global automotive brands on show and for visitors to test drive on and off site.

Dogs are welcome, with family dog shows, training and have-a-go agility sessions, retail outlets and lots of canine activities over the course of the weekend.

“The response we’ve had so far has been absolutely fantastic,” added Nina.

“We have gone bigger and better than ever as we know that - after what has been a challenging time - people want to have fun, enjoy themselves and experience something a little different, something that will bring a smile to their face.

“This year’s Bolesworth International will guarantee that, we just can’t wait to get started.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Martin James Williams .