Blenheim Horse Trials
Overview
Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials approached Marshall & Co to create a series of illustrations for the event’s cross-country course. The illustrations were designed to showcase each fence featured on the course and support the production of the official event programme and supporting materials.
Working closely with the course designer, the project focused on accurately capturing the character, layout and technical elements of each fence while creating visuals that were clear, engaging and easy for riders and spectators to follow.
The Challenge
The cross-country course is one of the most anticipated parts of the event, with each fence carefully designed to test horse and rider combinations while reflecting the character of the venue.
The challenge was to create illustrations that were both visually engaging and technically accurate, helping competitors and visitors better understand the course ahead of the event. As the fences were still in development during the planning stages, close collaboration and on-site discussions were essential to ensure the illustrations reflected the final designs correctly.
The Approach
The project began with an on-site meeting alongside the course designer to walk the cross-country course and review the planned fence locations, angles and technical features.
These conversations helped shape the illustration style and ensured each fence was represented accurately from both a design and sporting perspective. Following the site visit, detailed illustrations were created for use across the event brochure and supporting event materials.
The Solution
A full set of bespoke cross-country fence illustrations was developed for the event, designed to help communicate the course layout in a clear and visually engaging way.
Deliverables included:
On-site consultation and course review
Collaboration with the course designer
Bespoke illustrations of cross-country fences
Artwork prepared for print within the official event brochure
Visual assets supporting event communications and visitor experience
The Outcome
The final illustrations were featured within the official event brochure and helped bring the cross-country course to life ahead of the competition.
The project combined technical accuracy with creative illustration, providing competitors and spectators with a clearer understanding of the course while supporting the wider presentation and professionalism of the event.
