2012 Controversial Olympic Equestrian Location

Posted on October 9th, 2008 by totalhorse

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2012 Olympic equine events are likely to be held at London’s Greenwich Park, following positive findings by a government study hired to look into the situation. The proposed site of the 3 equine events, dressage, jumping, and eventing, has been the subject of much controversy by opponents of the plan who are concerned about possible damage to the historic gardens. The Olympic organizing committee has countered by promising to repair any damages and minimize disruption to the Park.

However, opponents feel that the four mile course which winds through much of the Greenwich Park’s historic flower gardens will require many flower gardens and shrubs to be moved, and possibly irreparably damaged. The 350 year old chestnut trees lining the park will probably have to be pruned in order for the riders to gallop through them. Comments have been made questioning the wisdom of substantially pruning these old trees when signs currently in the Park offer criminal charges to chestnut-pickers.

Also affected by the Equestrian events will be the Park’s boating pond which will be turned into a water jump. Other locations which have been suggested for the Olympic Equestrian events include Woolwich Common, Windsor Park, and Blenheim Palace. Greenwich Park is apparently considered to be the most cost-effective.

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