Eventing, a very British family affair

From September 18th to 21st, the 37th edition of the Senior European Championship in Eventing will take place at the stunning Blenheim Palace, an iconic British manor.

The task of designing the course has been entrusted to a world-class course designer: none other than Captain Mark Phillips, a four-time Badminton winner, European and World Team Gold medalist, and father of the equally accomplished Zara Phillips.

He enthusiastically accepted the role, assisted by David Evans, the professional responsible for creating Derek di Grazia’s course for the Tokyo Olympics.

A lifetime devoted to Eventing

Captain Phillips has earned numerous accolades in the discipline of eventing, not only as a rider but also as a course designer. His responsibilities have included designing the Burghley course, one of the temples of cross-country for over thirty years, the 2018 Tryon World Equestrian Games (WEG), and many editions of the Gatcombe Festival of British Eventing.

In short, the British Captain’s experience is unparalleled. He is proud to continue his work as a course designer, especially with the opportunity to mentor and guide young talents entering this thrilling and demanding profession, after years of training young riders, not only in the UK but also in the United States.

Blenheim… what a palace!

For an Englishman who loves eventing, or more specifically, a discipline that combines adrenaline with complete harmony between horse and rider, designing a course “at home” is a true honor – especially with such a breathtaking backdrop! Blenheim Palace is a monumental English country residence located in Woodstock, Oxfordshire.

It is the only non-episcopal or non-royal residence in England to be granted the title of “Palace.” Built between 1705 and 1722, it is one of the largest estates in the country, and its vast parkland is perfect for hosting continental eventing. This is not the first time the manor has hosted continental championships, as it was already the location of the European Championships in 2005.

British and eventing: an endless story

When one thinks of eventing, the mind immediately travels across the Channel, where this discipline is deeply rooted in the culture of many equestrian enthusiasts. After all, the most spectacular events are hosted in England, where the first continental championships were held in 1953 at Badminton. Since that edition, the “King’s Riders” have distinguished themselves by winning both individual gold and silver medals, as well as team gold.

Since then, they have consistently dominated, amassing a total of 20 individual gold medals, more than all other nations combined. Once again, the Phillips family is “complete,” as two of these golds were won on British soil by none other than Princess Anne, the Captain’s former wife, and their daughter Zara. Princess Anne clinched her European title in 1971 at Badminton, while Zara triumphed in 2005 at Blenheim Palace, riding Toytown. Indeed, this is truly a family affair!

Elena Pecora

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