The curtain comes down on the 2004/05 Team Chasing season in Leicestershire when the National Champions are crowned at the finale on Easter Sunday, 27 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 the 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 9:15am 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 around 11:45am 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 2004 and earlier this year. The 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 – much needed in light of the recent hunt ban.
Long time Fernie-follower and event rider Roger Whitehead is the course designer and has made some innovative changes for 2005. The feature fence of the National Championship, George’s Gaping Gorge, named after our sponsor George Goring of Goring Hotels, caused a fair amount of trouble last year and Roger has made it even more tricky this time. The spectator’s favourite – the Water – will be a huge feature this year as will the addition of a large “pardubice” fence – named after the famous steeplechase in Poland.
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. To celebrate Easter, there will be a range of additional entertainments for all the family. Car parking is £7 for standard and £15 for course view – bring a picnic to make if a fantastic day. Proceeds from the programme sales go to charity.
Location: Just off the B6047 in Tur Langton.
