The National begins today at Spruce Meadows
Posted Jun 6, 2012 2:39 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
While organizers keep an eye on the sky and the inclement weather making its way through the region, competitors at The National this week at Spruce Meadows will have an eye on the upcoming Summer Olympics in London.
The always popular show jumping event got underway Wednesday morning with the younger riders showcasing their skills in advance of the big events on Saturday and Sunday.
“Competition begins in the morning with the younger horses and younger riders working their way towards the international ring, where we have two major events,” Spruce Meadows’ spokesman Ian Allison tells 660News, who adds with the London Olympics on the horizon that this year’s National is a must-attend event for the creme-de-la-creme of the sport.
The notable competitions for the younger riders, following qualifying, are scheduled to begin at 5pm, Wednesday.
One of the reasons The National is so popular with Calgarians is its accessibility — and affordability — for spectators.
“Since 1976, our general admission fee has stayed the same at $5,” adds Allison, “and children under 12 and seniors are admited for free. We have a complimentary shuttle service from the Bridlewood LRT station and really it’s completely accessible for anyone who wants to come and see the best in the world.”
It’s not unusual for Spruce Meadows to average 40,000 spectators a day over the weekend during The National. That’s when the marquee events are scheduled including the $200,000 CN Reliability Grand Prix on Saturday and the $175,000 Nexen Cup on Sunday.
