New Forest Concours International d’Attelage de Tradition (CIAT) held at New Forest Showground in Brockenhurst
COMPETITORS travelled from across the UK to take part in an antique horse-drawn carriage competition in Brockenhurst held at the weekend.
The New Forest Concours International d’Attelage de Tradition (CIAT) was held at the New Forest Showground, with entrants also undertaking a 13km ride out into the Forest to undertake various challenges.
Joint organiser Samantha Searle explained: “The main purpose of the competition is to preserve and promote the use of original pre-war antique carriages where many from this era have been lost, destroyed or left as static displays in museums.”
The event involved 17 teams who travelled from across the UK and Belgium to take part, arriving on Friday to enjoy a Pimm’s reception and hog roast.
On Saturday the teams were then presented to three judges in the main ring before setting out across the Forest on a route past Whitefield Moor and Rhinefield House Hotel. Competitors then took part in a series of challenges which included picking up a champagne glass and travelling 20 metres holding it, and performing a circular turn.
Samantha said: “These carriages were the principle mode of transport for the nation and, much like the modern motor car, were built in many formats to suit all types of life – from basic utility vehicles, luxury coachman driven carriages to trade vans.
“People absolutely loved seeing them out on the Forest because the competitors were all dressed up in their finery for the occasion.
“We had a good turnout of spectators, and it was lovely to see the public were so interested and engaged.”
The CIAT format was developed around 30 years ago in France amid strong interest in traditional carriages with the popularity of private driving at British shows in contrast with the rest of Europe. Traditional vehicles were rapidly being replaced by modern sports competitors, threatening their existence.
Competitors in the Brockenhurst event were all members of Association de International d’Attelage deTradition (AIAT). On Saturday evening they enjoyed a gala dinner and auction at Carey’s Manor Hotel.
On Sunday the final judging took place with AIAT GB chairman Rosemary Neale awarded the reserve champion and James Jeffrey the championship.
The New Forest event was jointly organised by Samantha Searle and Modris Kesans, and plans are already under way for a second competition at the New Forest Showground in June next year.
For more information visit www.attelagedetradition.co.uk
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