Posted: 16th May 2016 | Back to news feed
Without doubt Equifest is now the must attend event of the summer show season with top class competition and a great party. Here we find out more about this great five day equestrian feast.
Equifest is the largest equestrian show in the UK with entries exceeding more than12,000 and some 1,500 stables provided onsite.
With so much going on at the show, the team at Equifest is on hand to help and here provide the answers to some of the most common questions competitors ask.
Do I have to qualify to compete at Equifest?
Noyou do not have to qualify to compete at Equifest. We have more than 600 open classes and as long as you reach the criteria of the class you can enter as many as you like.
How do I enter?
There are two main ways to complete your entries. There is the online system for which you must first obtain a password. You can do this by scrolling down to the new customer / new account field. Once you receive your password and customer number you will be able to log on to your account and away you go. Alternatively you can simply fill in the entry form in your schedule and pop it in the post to us complete with a cheque or credit card details. All entries must be sent in before the closing date. This year’s closing dates are postal entries July 18 and online entries July 26.
How do I qualify for the Championship classes?
By competing at a show which is running qualifiers for the Championship you wish to qualify for. If you visit the affiliations page on the website you will find a list of shows that have affiliated to Equifest and the qualifiers they will be running. The qualification will go to first or second place unless they have already qualified, if they have then the qualification will then move down the line. Don’t forget to have your qualification card in your pocket for the judge to sign and verify your qualification.
How do I get a qualification card?
Qualification cardscan be downloaded from the affiliations page. Alternatively just contact the office either by email or telephone and we will pop one in the post to you.
Do I have to be a member to compete and how much is membership?
No you do not have to be a member toqualify or to compete at Equifest. Membership costs are Adults £30.00 and Junior (under 16) £15.00
What are the advantages to being a member of Equifest?
The advantages are you have an opportunity to book stables in the two members stabling area – these stables are limited so to book these you have to be quick off the mark once you receive your schedule. Reduced entry fees both online and postal are another benefit while members also get exclusive and free entry to the Concours, Pairs and Fancy Dress classes as only members can enter these.
Can I do additional entries at the show?
Yes you can but for catalogued horses only and as long as there is availability in the class. All you need to do is go to the show office by 4.00pm the day before the class you wish to enter takes place.
How do I book stables?
Sponsors Indoor, Members A & B, Pink duration and Pink day stables can only be booked by completing a stabling form and sending it in to the office. Blue duration and Blue day stables can be booked through the online system or by completing a form and sending it into the office. All stable bookings must be accompanied by at least one entry per stable booked.
Do I have to wear my back number?
Yes, back numbers must be worn by all exhibitors whilst mounted or handling, including exercising.
Can I camp on site?
Yes we have plenty of grass areas for you to pitch your tent.
What facilities can be found on site?
Showers, Toilets, 24 hour security, Shop, Fodder shop, Cash Points and Bars.
Will there be First Aid on site?
Yes. We will have a Doctor and Paramedics on site all week.
Will there be vets on site?
Yes. There will be a vet on site from 8.00am to 5.00pm Wednesday to Sunday. Out of these hours they will be on call.
Will there be a farrier on site?
Yes. He will be available on site during show hours.
For further information contact (01733) 363500or visit www.equifest.org.uk
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