National Dressage Championships get started

The 2014 LeMieux National Dressage Championships kick off tomorrow, with four days of top competition (18-21 September).

Double gold

The UK’s very best horses and riders will contest a total of 22 championship titles – from Prelim to the Grand Prix Freestyle.

All eyes will be on Charlotte Dujardin, however, who will be competing fresh from the World Equestrian Games (WEG) where she won double gold. Charlotte will be joined by her WEG silver-medal winning team mates Carl Hester, Gareth Hughes and Michael Eilberg.

The para dressage is also sure to attract big crowds, after Team GB won eight WEG medals.Sophie Christiansen who claimed individual gold and silver will be competing, as will individualsilver medalistNatasha Baker and double silver medalist Sophie Wells – both of whom are entered for the para and able bodied classes.

Fancy moves

As well as the championships, Gareth Hugheswill be giving two 30-minute HorseQuest Master Classes.

You can also find out what make the pefect piaffe by buying a Radio Nationals headset, which gives expert commentary and analysis on the tests as they are ridden.

Alongside the dressage there is some great shopping, with over 80 trade stands on-site.

Tickets for the show at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire can be bought on the gate, with prices starting at £16 for adults and £9 for children.

H&C will be showing highlights from the LeMieux National Dressage Championships – click here to find out more.

Horse & Country’s coverage of the LeMieux National Dressage Championships is brought to you in association withCharles OwenandPikeur. H&C is available on Sky 253 and online viaH&C Everywhere. For programme times,click here.