The curtain comes down on the 2003/04 Team Chasing season in Leicestershire when the National Champions are crowned at the finale on Sunday, 28 March. Set in idyllic Leicestershire countryside just outside the village of Tur Langton by kind permission of O’Sullivan Farms, the Goring Hotel National Team Chase Championships also comprises the Welland Valley Cub hunter fun class and Robinsons Mazda UK Hunt Team Chase.
The sport of team chasing started in 1974 and combines the thrill of the chase, the skill of eventing, the speed of racing and the discipline of show jumping. Four horses and riders compete over a cross country course, similar to what would be encountered out on a day’s hunting – against the clock with the best three to count. The sport is well known for its spectacular spills and thrills which are enjoyed by competitors and spectators alike.
The Welland Valley Feeds Cubhunter Class kicks the day off at 9:30am and is open to all. It's designed to give riders a taste of team chasing without the pressure of the clock. The day's feature class, the Goring Hotel National Championships starts just after 11am with the country’s best 20 teams vying for the title and £1500 first prize. Teams have qualified at various events around the country during autumn 2003 and earlier this year. The Robinson Mazda UK Hunt Team Chase brings the day’s action to an end where teams from Hunts around the country compete for the Fernie Cup and £1000 to go to Hunt funds.
Long time Fernie-follower and event rider Roger Whitehead joins the Championship as course designer and has made some distinct changes. The feature fence of the National Championship, George's Gorge, named after our sponsor George Goring of Goring Hotels, will cause some head scratching while competitors decided their best route. Good riding will be rewarded with a smooth and fast passage through the two elements but get it wrong and vital seconds will be lost. Roger’s other addition is a new log at the spectator’s favourite - the Water.
The venue is a spectator's dream with all the action in clear view so none of the proceedings will be missed. As well as the fast and furious team chase action, there’s a range of tradestands to tempt the shopaholic and full catering including a licensed bar. Car parking is £7 for standard and £15 for course view including a programme - bring a picnic to make if a fantastic day. Proceeds from the event go to Macmillan Cancer Relief.
Location: Just off the B6047 in Tur Langton.
