Hickstead's struggle to save the Super League
Saturday, August 02, 2008
Hickstead has won the first round in its battle to keep showjumping's international team competition in this country.
With the Samsung sponsorship of the Super League series coming to a close, the FEI - governing body of equestrian competition worldwide - is proposing a new competition, but with venues reduced from eight to six.
But it is also stipulating that participating venues stage at the same meeting a Grand Prix with a minimum prize fund of €300,000 (£250,000). It also expects the new-look series to start next year.
"We were told by the FEI at the Longines Royal International Horse Show that our facilities were 'excellent' and that we met all the criteria," said Hickstead sponsorship director Daisy Bunn. "It means we can stage the new competition, provided we can find the sponsorship."
At present, the Grand Prix held at the July meeting has a prize fund of £60,000. "That means a lot of extra money to find, and the country's current financial climate is making it difficult," said Daisy. "If we don't find it this time, we have to wait for another three years before we can bid again."
Hickstead owner and founder Douglas Bunn, who has spent millions of pounds on his showground and it's shows in the last 48 years, has had to call a halt. It means that outside sponsorship has to be found.
"Dad is really worried and upset by all this," said Daisy. "But he is determined that this competition, the only one in this country which attracts international teams, must be saved.
"We have won round one, but the biggest hurdle has yet to be negotiated."
