Innovative new sponsorship announced from Bates Saddles at Defender Burghley 2022

The support of saddle-makers Bates will enable the CCI5* horse trials - the highlight of the international autumn eventing calendar - to provide riders and owners of the world-class horses competing at Defender Burghley with a much-upgraded facility in the stables area in which to relax and enjoy their weekend. It will provide athlete-focused food and drink, and act as a comfortable, private area away from the intensity and excitement of the main hub of the event.

Ron Bates, managing director of Bates Saddles, said: “We are incredibly excited and honoured to announce our sponsorship at the Defender Burghley Horse Trials of their Athletes and Owners Lounge. Bates Saddles has long been a brand associated with high-performance eventing worldwide and are thrilled to support such a high-calibre international event.”

Martyn Johnson, event director at Defender Burghley Horse Trials added: “We delighted to welcome Bates Saddles on board with this exciting new sponsorship. Owners play an essential role within the sport and to be able to enhance their ‘on event’ experience through the introduction of a new Athletes and Owners Lounge is a really important measure that we are able to introduce thanks to the support of Bates Saddles.”

Bates Saddlery is an official partner of British Equestrian, British Eventing, the German Equestrian Federation (FN) and the United States Equestrian Association