The new century has signalled many improvements to the course for this year’s Asprey & Garrard International Driving Grand Prix. The only international driving event to take place in this country, the Grand Prix has been taking place as part of the Royal Windsor Horse Show (10th -14th May 00) since the early 1970’s. Horse Driving Trials consist of three disciplines, in competition the dressage phase is first, then the marathon and finally the obstacle or ‘cone’ driving phase. The course for this year’s cross-country marathon phase will be substantially different to that of previous years. In his first year as course designer at Royal Windsor Wyn Lucas is designing and overseeing the implementation of eight brand new obstacles. Taking place in Windsor’s superb Home Park, which is only open to the public for 15 days a year, one of the aims of the new course is to place spectators firmly at the centre of the action. Lucas, a British Telecom political representative, is aware of the responsibility of his task, some of the best drivers in the world will be competing over the course and it must present a worthy challenge. Working closely with course builder Anthony Petitpierre, Lucas hopes that the course will reflect the themes of the show and its sponsors whilst sitting comfortably in its majestic setting. Enthusiastic followers of the marathon phase will be able to make use of additional access to transportation around the course this year. There will be a horse drawn dray and two tractors and trailers provided by the show organisers to ferry spectators around Home Park. In another attempt to make this exciting, yet little known sport more ‘spectator friendly’ Sunday’s obstacle driving phase for the horse team and pony teams will take place in two of the main show arenas. The Thames and Country Fair rings will be joined especially for the event allowing the audience a bird’s-eye view of the drivers and their teams in their elegant livery displaying their skills in this technical final phase. This year the event will feature drivers from 11 nations, including Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Ireland, The Netherlands, Portugal and USA. HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh was largely responsible for bringing this sport to these shores having witnessed its excitement and popularity in Europe. Since its inception here His Royal Highness has been one of its most loyal and constant competitors and he will be taking part again this year. Royal Windsor is the country’s largest Horse Show, with over 3,000 horses and ponies competing over the five days. The show caters for every equine interest from the elegant traditions of Showing and Dressage to the excitement of Show Jumping, the pageantry and splendour of the King’s Troop and the fast and furious action of the Pony Club games. Returning to the show for the first time in over a decade The Royal Canadian Mounted Police Force or ‘Mounties’ as they are more affectionately known will be performing their Musical Ride at performances throughout the show. Add to all this over 150 trade stands representing a broad selection of outlets from town and country stores, fabulous arena displays and numerous attractions for children. The show offers something for everyone and a great day out for the family. The Box Office can be contacted on 0870 905 0600. Links www.royal-windsor-horse-show.co.uk www.aspreyandgarrard.com For further information The Royal Windsor Press Office Candy Burnyeat or Beany McLean Tel: 01753 847916 Email: nutter@easynet.co.uk Asprey & Garrard Press Office Tamara Kern Tel: 0207 493 6767