What is Dressage?
Dressage, often referred to as “horse ballet,” is a highly skilled form of riding performed in exhibition and competition. It involves a series of predetermined movements, known as “tests,” performed by horse and rider in harmony.
The goal of dressage is to develop the horse’s natural athletic ability and willingness to perform, resulting in a supple, flexible, and obedient animal.
History of Dressage
Dressage has its roots in classical horsemanship and has been practised for centuries, dating back to ancient Greek horsemanship techniques. It evolved through the Renaissance period when it became an integral part of cavalry training. Today, dressage is a competitive sport governed by organisations like the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) and is featured in the Olympic Games.
Hickstead: A Hub for Equestrian Excellence
Hickstead is a renowned equestrian centre located in West Sussex, England, primarily recognised for its showjumping events. Officially known as the All England Jumping Course, it has been a pivotal venue in the equestrian world since its opening in 1960.
History and Significance
The All England Jumping Course was established by Douglas Bunn, who envisioned a facility that could rival those in the United States.
The venue was the first permanent showground for equestrian sports in the UK and has since become synonymous with British showjumping. It hosts several prestigious events, including:
- Al Shira’aa British Jumping Derby Meeting: This event features the famous British Jumping Derby, which is known for its challenging course and attracts around 40,000 spectators annually.
- Longines Royal International Horse Show: This is one of only three CHIO 5* events globally and includes both showing and jumping competitions. It is also the official horse show of the British Horse Society.
Hickstead has expanded its offerings over the years to include various equestrian disciplines such as dressage, polo, and carriage driving, making it a versatile venue for equestrian sports and events.
Facilities and Events
The venue boasts six arenas, permanent seating for over 5,000 spectators, and 26 corporate hospitality suites. It accommodates a wide range of events throughout the year, including local competitions and international fixtures. The showground also features a retail village, funfair, and numerous dining options for visitors.
Dressage at Hickstead
In addition to its rich history in showjumping, Hickstead has become a significant location for dressage in the UK. The I.C.E. Horseboxes All England Dressage Festival is a key event in the dressage calendar, held annually in May.
This festival has grown in prominence, featuring national and international classes, including para dressage.
The 2024 festival, scheduled for May 7-12, is expected to attract top competitors like Olympic team members Charlotte Dujardin and Carl Hester, reflecting its importance in the dressage community.
- I.C.E. Horseboxes All England Dressage Festival: This event attracts top competitors, including Olympic team members like Charlotte Dujardin and Carl Hester, highlighting the festival’s importance in the dressage community.
- Accessibility: The festival offers free admission and parking for spectators, making it an inviting event for equestrian enthusiasts and the general public alike.
- International Participation: The festival has expanded to include international classes, reflecting its growing status in the global dressage scene.
Top Competitors Expected at the Hickstead Dressage Festival
The 2024 Hickstead Dressage Festival is expected to feature some of the world’s top dressage competitors. Notable participants include:
- Charlotte Dujardin: An Olympic gold medallist, Dujardin is renowned for her partnership with the horse Valegro and is a prominent figure in the dressage world.
- Carl Hester: A key member of the British dressage team, Hester has been instrumental in the UK’s success in international dressage competitions.
These competitors, among others, will bring their expertise and skill to the Hickstead arena, promising a week of exceptional dressage performances.
Ticket Purchasing Options for Hickstead Equestrian Shows
Here are the main options for purchasing tickets to Hickstead equestrian shows:
General Admission Tickets
- Tickets can be purchased in advance online or at the gate on the day of the event.
- Prices vary by day, with Thursday being free general admission and Friday-Sunday having discounted advance tickets available until June 14th.
- Children under 5 get free admission on Friday and Saturday.
Car parking
- Forward car parking: This is the closest parking to the event area, but it is limited and requires arriving by 10 AM. It costs £25.20 in advance or £28 on the day, and is subject to vehicle size restrictions (no vehicles over 6m and no campers).
- General parking: This is available for all visitors and is priced at £13.50 in advance or £15 on the day. However, the closer spots may fill up quickly, especially on popular days.
- Blue Badge parking: There is no need to book Blue Badge parking, but a general parking ticket is still required. Some areas are on grass, including national ringside viewing and Blue Badge parking.
How early should I arrive to secure good parking at Hickstead
To secure good parking at Hickstead, it is recommended to arrive early, ideally by 10 AM. This is especially important if you are opting for forward car parking, which requires arrival by this time to ensure a closer spot to the event area. Forward car parking is priced at £25.20 in advance or £28 on the day, and is subject to vehicle size restrictions (no vehicles over 6m and no campers).
If you arrive later, you may find yourself parked further away from the main showground, which could involve a longer walk to the event. Therefore, planning to arrive well before the event starts will enhance your experience and convenience.
Four-Day Tickets
- Covers admission for the entire Al Shira’aa Hickstead Derby Meeting from Thursday to Sunday.
- £72 in advance for adults (£80 on the day).
- £54 in advance for seniors (£60 on the day).
Note: The ticket prices mentioned are accurate for the 2024 events.
Members Enclosure Tickets
- In addition to general admission, members enclosure tickets provide access to the members grandstand with the best views of the International Arena.
- Members enclosure tickets can be purchased as part of a membership package or individually for select days.
Hospitality Packages
- Corporate hospitality suites are available for the best seats in the house.
- Packages include admission, food and drinks, and prime viewing of the action.
To purchase tickets, visit the Hickstead website at Hickstead Official Website. Advance tickets are recommended, especially for the most popular days like the Hickstead Derby on Sunday.
Conclusion
Hickstead remains a cornerstone of the equestrian world in the UK, consistently attracting top-tier talent and offering a stage for high-level competition. The I.C.E. Horseboxes All England Dressage Festival exemplifies this tradition, serving as a premier event that draws both national and international competitors. The festival not only showcases the pinnacle of dressage talent but also provides an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere for spectators.
Free admission and parking make the event accessible to all, encouraging a broader audience to experience the beauty and precision of dressage. The festival’s international classes reflect its growing prestige on the global stage, while the participation of renowned competitors like Charlotte Dujardin and Carl Hester underscores its significance within the dressage community.
Hickstead’s commitment to excellence is evident in its comprehensive facilities, which cater to both competitors and visitors. With its rich history and dedication to advancing equestrian sports, Hickstead continues to inspire and elevate the standards of dressage. The All England Dressage Festival is not just a highlight of the equestrian calendar but also a testament to Hickstead’s enduring legacy and its pivotal role in promoting and celebrating the art of dressage.