“Something Very Special”: Unveiling a Grand Horizon, Equestrian Marvel Set to Open on an Unprecedented Scale

The equestrian centers are a central hub for not just the equines but also the riders and the enthusiasts. The facilities, demandingly lend all required purposes for an equine and an enthusiast; from accommodation to training to competing. They have stood to welcome admirers, professional or amateur alike. These centers, high in demand, have had a thriving effect and presence in the surrounding communities.

The Sport & Recreation Alliance (SRA) through their study, reports that the equestrian centers across the UK have been successful in imparting a positive influence on the communities around them. The study has outlined that the ‘services’ and ‘drive’ of these facilities have provided a safe space for people and helped improve social skills. Now a couple in Scotland, through their impressive efforts, are all set to be a part of this thriving industry; but with something much bigger.

Equestrian enthusiasts fight odds

On the 14th of October, Horse&Hound (H&H) reported that an equestrian centre is prepared to make it’s opening to the public soon. The reports state that the Bogenraith Equestrian, in Banchory, Aberdeenshire, will soon be one to own a grand scale; acting as a ‘one-stop’ facility for the enthusiasts all over. The equestrian couple, Marion and Ciaran Dreelan, stumbled upon the idea of this project back in 2018; when the neighbouring farm was put up for sale.

However, as the two went ahead with their plans, the global pandemic stopped by as an obstacle for the two forcing them to ‘pull back.’ “We really got going in 2020 and have been non-stop since. The vision for Bogenraith Equestrian was to create a ‘one-stop shop’ for all things equestrian, on a scale that Scotland has not experienced.” Marion told H&H.

Marion further added, “We had to create something very special. I have lived in Scotland for almost 30 years and consider it as much a part of my home as I do Ireland, and we wanted to give something back.”

However, just as the couple got back on feet, Marion was diagonized with triple negative grade three breast cancer. The situation required Marion to undergo various treatments. But the enthusiast endured through it all until she finally came out a survivor in December 2022. Though she has emerged successful in her recommended therapy, Marion is still required to undergo regular check-ups due to other underlying conditions. However, that hasn’t stopped the believer in achieving what she set forth towards.

The ‘meticulously designed’ equestrian facility

Marion has been competing in events across all disciplines since she was 44. The Ireland born has made Scotland her home after residing the country for over 30 years. Her background and involvement gave Marion a useful outlook on the matters. “I took the views on board as competitor, spectator and business. I could see what was missing in Scotland and decided that if we were going to do this it had to be done on a scale like no other.” She said.

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The centre poses charming features that include: 50 bespoke, accompanied by 12×12 stables for livery, two 80×40 international arenas, and a 70×55 arena. The surface is cleverly designed to sustain all-weather cross country, grass cross-country, and a two-mile off-road hacking route. As for additional amenities, the facility houses a restaurant, retail area, seating for 160, and a function room; reports H&H.

The enthusiast revealed that the country is home to budding and professional riders alike. With this project she aims to help that nation with the progression of the sport; and interestingly, the couple has already started working toward the aim.

After Marion and Caran put up 160 tickets on sale for masterclass on Dec 1st and 19th Jan, the tickets returned all sold out. She also added that upon receiving astonishing requests, they have decided to fit in another 40 seats. “We believe that every rider deserves to excel and enjoy, we want to bring back the fun and support in horse riding,” said Marion. Following its opening, the centre will be hosting the  BE’s (British Eventing) Harry Hall One Club Anyone Can Event (ACE) qualifiers, this winter.

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