Subaru headline sponsor of Houghton International Horse Trials

The Houghton International, one of the country's most exciting horse trial events, has a seriously sure-footed title sponsor for 2010.

Subaru UK, the All-Wheel-Drive expert, has teamed up with the Norfolk-based event to make this year’s extravaganza the best yet, with 340 competitors chasing £30,000 in prize money and over 11,000 eager spectators expected to attend.

Now in its fourth year, the challenging course features a daunting 112 jumps dotted along its 5,500 metres.  It requires a voluntary workforce of 320 people, 10 Subaru support vehicles and 16,700 metres of cordon to keep everything in shape and running smoothly.

Set in the stunning surroundings of Houghton Hall, the three-day event is scheduled to take place between 27 and 30 May.  Event organisers have managed to secure the attendance of several of the world’s top riders, including current Badminton champion, Paul Tapper, and double-Olympic victor, Mark Todd.  There will also be 60 trade and food stalls to keep the visitors entertained, including several check static Subaru vehicle displays.

Britain’s top eventer and Subaru brand ambassador, Ollie Townend, would have been among the favourites to win the men’s competition, but sadly he will not be taking part in this year’s event due to an injury he sustained while competing in the USA.  However, he is a big Houghton fan and feels that Subaru’s involvement with the event is great for the sport of eventing.

“Subaru is a great supporter of my sport in Britain, and has helped grow the Houghton International into the major event that it is today.  I need a spacious, practical and go-anywhere vehicle to help me go about my business, and Subarus are perfect for that,” explained the London 2012 Olympic hopeful.

Subaru UK Marketing Director, Kenyon Neads, said: “Our nationwide involvement with UK eventing continues with the Houghton International. We at Subaru believe there’s a real affinity between the cars we sell and people who enjoy active outdoor pursuits, such as eventing.  Those who get involved at all levels of this sport appreciated the practicality and go-anywhere versatility of our vehicles, and many are already loyal Subaru customers.”