There are six countries represented and top riders including William Fox Pitt attending, The increase in entries has enabled a completely separate CICJ* Class for juniors to be run, and for the first time there will be Show Jumping on Friday as well as the full day of Dressage.
Event host June Burgess said: "Dealing with the extra entries has meant a few last minute changes but it's a great problem to have, we're delighted to have so many riders.
"Also, the Market Village has more than doubled in size and the Corporate Hospitality has grown too, we're looking forward to a great turn out, the spectators always add so much to the atmosphere."
Ballygraffan International Horse Trials has received a financial boost this year as Ards Borough Council has become the event's major sponsor, providing substantial investment in recognition of its public appeal, the significant economic benefits which it can bring to Ards and its potential to increase the number of local, national and international visitors to the area.
The council's award is helping promote the two-day competition, and as a result a fantastic turnout is expected. This will make for even greater atmosphere and excitement especially on cross-country day.
The international competition is paramount, and a further 16 acres has been added to the course that provides an extra loop in both the CIC tracks at the Mill Complex.
Another exciting alteration is the addition of an extensive new water complex that will offer many different challenges over the coming years. There are a total of 17 changes to the course from last year but the emphasis, as always, is in producing a bold and attacking course.
The ground Jury consists of The Lord & Lady Carew, Mrs Sue Stewart, Mrs Vanda Robinson, Mr Les Smith and Mr David Lee.
TD for the Tughans CIC** 2 star is Denis Currie and Stuart Stirling is TD for the Gilbert Ash CIC* 1 star.
In order to attract overseas riders the prize fund has been increased to £7000. First prize in Tughans CIC** 2star is £1600 and the Gilbert Ash CIC* 1star is at £1100. International nominations include; Portugal, France, Switzerland, USA and GB. William Fox Pitt will be riding 4 horses and his attendance will give a boost to proceedings as he has agreed to perform guest speaker duties in the Corporate Hospitality marquee. Irish entries are also raised significantly and we're looking forward to some fierce competition.
The Market Village has more than doubled in size providing even more fabulous gourmet grub and plenty of gift and craft stalls to browse. Another first is the children's programme; run by Castle Espie Wetlands Centre providing outdoor activities including the making of a willow sculpture Trojan horse!
Executive vehicles for the ground Jury have been kindly supplied by DFC (NI) Ltd and the Donnelly Group who have supported Ballygraffan from the beginning as have Joyce Estate Agents who will again sponsor the champagne and truffles Prize giving Ceremony. Gilbert Ash is the new CIC* sponsor. The Show Jumping tracks will be provided by Raymond Jess and will be technical and testing.
In addition to the existing hospitality packages there will be an Owners package available and a special Saturday Lunch deal for spectators in the Corporate Marquee. Again, we look forward to international TV coverage of this quality international event. For full details on the event please click on www.ballygraffan.com.