Northumberland County Show Inter Hunt Challenge
The main arena attraction at this year's Northumberland County Show promises to be an all-action display of equestrian skills. Judy Willis, Event Organiser, explains; “An Inter Hunt Challenge is a hugely exciting relay race that sees competitors negotiate obstacles, jumps and even ride quad bikes, to mimic the sort of difficulties a rider has to overcome on a day’s hunting
Judy continues: "I have seen these competitions at Bellingham Show and Belsay Horse Trials and saw how much the audiences enjoyed the fun and spectacle of the event. I hope our visitors enjoy the thrills and spills and cheer on the plucky riders!”
The rules are very simple and inclusive. Each team has four riders of differing ages; one must be over forty five, another under twenty five, and somebody must hold a full driving licence and able to drive a quad bike. Two teams compete at the same time over identical courses using a hunting whip as a baton. Tasks include jumping and driving a quad between obstacles without toppling them. If a competitor drops the whip, they have to dismount, pick it up and re-mount, thereby incurring a time forfeit. Any falls will incur a time penalty, so skill and speed are of equal priority. Judy is staying tight lipped about the details but she hinted, “We might include extra fun elements, such as getting changed into coveralls or gloves to ride the quad, racing with a terrier, or a few new twists and turns to add to the excitement.”
The first round of heats will take place in the main arena around noon, with the finals after the Grand Parade at about 4pm. If any team would like to take part, they should contact Jill Oakley on the show’s office number, 01434 604216.
The Northumberland County Show takes place on 27th May 2019, at Bywell near Stocksfield in Northumberland. With over 30,000 visitors, it is one of the highlights of the agricultural and equestrian year and attracts world class entrants in its livestock, shearing and competitive classes. For tickets, applications and information www.northcountyshow.co.uk
For tickets, schedules and information visit www.northcountyshow.co.uk and join in the conversation on facebook
