Badminton Horse Trials is one of the most prestigious equestrian events in the world. It is held annually in the grounds of Badminton House in Gloucestershire, England and attracts competitors from all over the world. As such, it can be quite expensive to enter the event. In this article, we will look at the costs associated with entering the Badminton Horse Trials and what you can expect to pay for your entry.
Entry Fees
The entry fee for the Badminton Horse Trials is set at £650 for the International CCI4* class. This is the highest level of competition at the event and includes a three-day dressage test, a three-day show jumping course, and a three-day cross country course. The entry fee for the CCI3* class is £500, while the entry fee for the CCI2* class is £250. All entry fees are subject to VAT and must be paid in full before the horse is allowed to compete.
Stabling Fees
The stables at Badminton House are some of the best in the world, and they come at a price. The stables are able to accommodate up to 80 horses, and the cost of stabling is £110 per horse per night. This includes bedding, food, water, and mucking out services. Any additional stabling costs for the duration of the event must be paid in full before the horse is allowed to compete.
Travel Costs
Competitors travelling from overseas will need to factor in the cost of travel to the event. This will include airfares and any additional costs associated with transporting the horse, such as airline fees for bringing a horse on board a plane. Depending on the location, this could be a significant expense.
Additional Costs
In addition to the entry and stabling fees, there are a number of additional costs associated with competing at Badminton Horse Trials. These include accommodation costs for the rider and grooms, veterinary fees, entry fees for other competitions that may be taking place at the same time, and any additional costs associated with the preparation and presentation of the horse.
Prize Money
The prize money for the Badminton Horse Trials varies depending on the level of competition and the number of horses competing. The winner of the International CCI4* class can expect to receive around £130,000 in prize money, while the winner of the CCI3* class can expect to receive around £60,000.
Conclusion
Competing in the Badminton Horse Trials is an expensive endeavour, but the rewards can be great. Riders must be prepared to pay the entry fees and associated costs, as well as factor in any additional costs associated with travelling to the event and preparing the horse. However, the prize money can be quite substantial and may be worth the expense for some riders.