WORLD CLASS EVENTS
Northcote Stud is a premier equestrian events venue with a unique approach. Gail Bailey meets owner Emily Whiteside to learn more about how the business is evolving. Photography: Kirsten Platt
Riding for over 18 years and competing in Europe and Florida, experienced equestrian Emily Whiteside always had a vision of owning an events centre: “Having competed at a high standard worldwide I’ve been lucky to see some of the very best event facilities, and it’s given me the determination to create the same, and more, here at Northcote,” she explains.
The ethos at Northcote Stud is focused on providing outstanding sport in surroundings that competitors and visitors enjoy being a part of. Historically, a lot of the best homegrown equestrian talent spends a proportion of their year competing in mainland Europe. However, due to the changes brought about by Brexit, this is now far more expensive and complicated to do.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for us to offer these facilities as we have many of the elements that makes competing abroad attractive,” explains Emily. “Whilst we can’t guarantee the weather, we have put together a number of multi-day events that offer a progressive schedule, good prize money, leading rider bonuses, live global streaming via Clip My Horse TV and luxury, affordable stabling.”
Having an experienced course designer is pivotal to the success of show jumping events and Northcote have assured the services of one of the very best as Emily explains: “We have engaged international talent Alan Wade. He was responsible for building the FEI World Equestrian Games and World Cup Final, and has built courses at Olympia – we are thrilled to be working with him here at Northcote.”
The Young Horse of the Year Show on 2nd-6th June is one of the centre’s main events and has already attracted a host of well-known riders including Olympic silver medallist Steven Smith: “Our events usually sell out within 48 hours,” says Emily. “We have over 300 horses staying on-site and over 350 horses jumping per day.”
This, of course, brings with it a huge daily footfall to Northcote Stud and therefore revenue for local hotels, restaurants, shops and other businesses, bringing promotion for businesses themselves and the brands they use.
Having recently made a programme of major improvements and investment to ensure athletes enjoy competing, Northcote is now keen to develop collaborations with commercial partners: “We work with each of our commercial partners individually to ensure they receive maximum return and recognition for their investment,” Emily explains. “There are a number of different opportunities to suit those looking to be represented across our key events, and also for those who would simply like to join us for a single show or competition.”
Collaborative packages at Northcote Stud are bespoke but may include being a Title, Class, Jump or Broadcast partner: “We work hard to ensure our sponsors see and receive the benefits,” says Emily.
Depending on how businesses choose to be involved, this can include an advert on the live stream, an arena board, the commentator promoting the brand, preferential stabling and parking, hospitality for businesses to bring their clients with VIP seating, social media promotion and links on the website, branded merchandise, trade stand space and a chance to meet the winning athletes with presentation photographs. The list is endless – and a wonderful way to market your company and be part of a thrilling sport.
As the marquee goes up, renowned commentator and broadcaster Adam Cromarty from Impact Media will be hosting key events. Adam, who is an experienced equestrian along with being well known for his informative and entertaining commentary, has worked for the BBC, Sky Sports, Eurosport and many more well-known outlets: “I’m so pleased that we have Adam working with us – he is an experienced journalist, broadcaster, presenter and judge so is perfectly placed to host our events and be a part of what we are creating at Northcote Stud,” Emily explains.
So, whether you have never been to a show jumping event before, are already an avid enthusiast or a business hoping to collaborate, contact Emily to find out more and be a part of their exciting equestrian journey.
Contact details below for further information about both sponsorship and events
Northcote Stud
Northcote Road
Old Langho, Blackburn BB6 8BE
01254 790025
northcotestud.com
