These classes were originally allocated as part of the Strategic Fixtures Review, with Little Downham successfully tendering for both the CCI3*-S and CCI4*-S classes.  However, it became clear that with the congestion of International events in both the UK and abroad, this was not going to provide the best balance of classes for both the Organisers and Members. Concerns were also raised about the potential demand for a CCI4*-S at this time of year.

As a result of a huge amount of good will and compromise on the part of both Tina and Helen it has been agreed  the CCI3*-S class will move from Little Downham and return to Bicton in October 2020.  The CCI4*-S class will remain at Little Downham.  This will enable the Fixtures Team to assess the demand for a CCI4*-S at this time of year, whilst maintaining the popular CCI3*-S at Bicton International. Whilst the demand for the new CCI4*-S is evaluated the BE Board has agreed that this class will be held on its own within Little Downham International, also enabling BE to gauge the overall viability of running a standalone CCI-S class.

We would like to thank both organisers for working with us to resolve the challenge.

Chris Farr, BE Sport Manager (Fixtures), commented; “I am incredibly grateful to both Tina and Helen for their understanding and patience during this time. BE needs to ensure that we have the right balance of International Fixtures throughout the year, and the concerns raised with this specific challenge required the goodwill and patience of both Organisers. The Fixtures team will carefully monitor the demand for the CCI4*-S to ensure it delivers what is required for our members competing at this level.”

Tina Ure, said; “The Little Downham team were deeply honoured to have been awarded the international for October. However, when considering the available dates it was not feasible to run these classes to provide the best opportunity for the membership.  As such we looked to work with BE and fellow organiser Helen West, to find a solution support those riders looking for a late CCI4*-S and CCI3*-S. We very much look forward to welcoming the 4* competitors to Little Downham International in October 2020.”

Helen West added; “I am delighted to have been able to work with BE and fellow organiser Tina Ure. The permanent facilities at Bicton Arena make it an ideal venue to run at this stage of the season, as we proved last year when we hosted this fixture. I look forward to being able to re-establish the CCI3-S class at this fixture and very much hope that Little Downham get the support that they deserve for the late season CCI4*-S.”

The review of the Strategic Fixtures (SFC2020) process is in its final stages of sign off by the Review Panel, and we hope to be able to share the findings shortly.