RIDERS rank this year's British Eventing Open Championship at Gatcombe as the one to win.

 Many of the world's top riders say it is one of the most prestigious titles to be won anywhere in the world.

The competition runs from the 2-4 August and competitors are beginning their preparations for the event which takes place in the spectacular setting of Gatcombe Park, home of HRH The Princess Royal. Dual Olympic medallist and former world champion Kristina Cook said: "It's a very prestigious event and somewhere I always aim for. It ranks very highly among all the riders and if you can win there it is a real thrill."

Laura Collett, who is campaigning the 11-year-old mare Allora 3 for the Championship said: "It is certainly one of the most prestigious titles there is and to win would be amazing. If you look down the list of former winners the very best have won and to be among them would be incredible."

But Laura admits it takes a very special horse to win: "The cross-country course is tough with a tight time and the show jumping is well up to height."

Laura will also be riding one of the greatest steeplechasers of his era, Kauto Star, in the main arena on the Sunday.

The racehorse-turned-dressage horse, whose successes include two Cheltenham Festival Gold Cups and a record five King George VI Chases, will be in the limelight once more when Laura performs a dressage demonstration.

"He will love all the attention and it's a fantastic opportunity for people to see him again although I'm not quite sure how he will behave as he might get quite buzzed up by the atmosphere!"

The attractions in the main arena always draw a huge number of spectators, from the excitement of the Shetland Pony Grand National, the grandeur of the Dressage to Music display, and the exhilaration of the Scurry Driving.

Add to this the range of trade stands in the shopping village, superstars of the future contesting the Smith & Williamson Intermediate Championship as well as the Novice Championship.

The Dubarry Burghley Young Event Horse Qualifier and the BETA Pony Club Inter-Branch Show Jumping all of which set the stage for a three day-long extravaganza. Tickets bought in advance are available at a discounted rate and can be purchased by visiting www.gatcombe-horse.co.uk.

Tickets are also available for the Hamptons International Garden Cub, a members' only arena-side enclosure.