(NB – this is the prepared text not a transcript of the speech so words and phrases may have been altered or added at the time of delivery. Any extract taken from this must be used in the form of a quote.)
Ladies and Gentlemen – There can be few more satisfying ways of starting my term of office as Chairman of this Olympic sport, than by signing such a significant sponsorship agreement for what is such a key flagship event for our sport both in Britain and Internationally. And of course with a company that has such a high world profile. It’s a great honour to be involved with today’s ceremony and I am delighted to announce what, for the sport, is a real “red letter day”.
Land Rover have been extremely loyal supporters of eventing worldwide for over 20 years and I’m heartened to see that, even after such a lengthy relationship, our sport has inspired them to further expand their commitment at British Eventing’s flagship event. The brands of Land Rover and Eventing share so many values and compliment each other perfectly so it is fitting that we have enjoyed a lasting partnership – long may it continue.
This sponsorship news comes at a vital time for the sport when we are looking to capitalize on the team’s great success of the Athens Olympics and in particular, Leslie’s individual Gold on Jeremy Lawton’s Shear L’eau. 32 years has been a long wait for Gold but Leslie has set a great example of skill, competitive spirit and “Shear” hard work. The trio of medals at Athens is not where the new success story of eventing ends; increased participation levels, developments at grass roots level, renewed media interest and lottery funding are taking the sport into a new era for the next generation. We do not intend to waste this opportunity and are delighted Land Rover can join us for this golden period.
It also comes when the sport is facing some of the biggest changes since becoming an Olympic sport. The shortened format seen in Athens will be adopted for all Championships until at least until 2008. We will not make any hasty decisions about the format at Burghley but will ensure it remains the focus for the world’s best riders. Burghley is vital in providing match practice for our horses and riders biding to secure international success at the very top level as well as those combinations climbing the ladder.
International success, and particularly the Olympic glory, is crucial for building a sport’s profile vital for securing sponsorship and TV attention, attracting new young talent to take up the sport and create a public following. Burghley has been at the forefront here and is a major piece of the jigsaw that has brought Britain’s success. Its involvement with the Pony Club, young horse classes and shopping experience is a great example to events everywhere.
We are all delighted that the wonderful generosity of Lady Victoria Leatham, President of The Burghley Horse Trials Committee and the very strong team behind the organization of the event is now joined by such a committed global brand as Land Rover. It’s a team that I’m certain will do the whole sport proud.