Temporary Ground Protection for the Longines Horse Trials

Events and Festivals GrassformHD / TuffTrak

Project Overview

The Longines Horse Trials is one of the world’s most prestigious show jumping series hosted at the iconic Royal Hospital Chelsea. The show attracts competitors and visitors from across the globe. For the 2025 trials event, organisers needed a robust and reliable temporary ground protection solution to accommodate both the horses and the large number of spectators.

Grassform were contracted to design, install, and recover 7,500m² of GrassformHD roadway, ensuring the site remained protected while providing a safe and stable surface for the competition.

Pre-Planning & Design

The project required months of careful planning. Our engineering team carried out detailed site visits and produced bespoke site drawings to ensure the temporary ground protection layout met the specific requirements of the event.

Accuracy was critical — the GrassformHD roadway was to be topped with a sand surface, forming the main competition track. This meant the design had to be flawless to guarantee a safe, level surface where horses could showcase their skills.

Installation

Grassform deployed four installation teams, working efficiently to install the entire roadway within just 48 hours. The trackway was laid precisely to specification, allowing the sand covering to be spread evenly and securely ahead of the competition.

Event Delivery

The Longines Horse Trials took place from 10th–13th August, with competitors and visitors enjoying world-class show jumping on a safe, professional-grade surface, seamlessly integrated into the historic setting of Chelsea.

Recovery

Following the event, Grassform returned on 21st–22nd August to recover the trackway. Using multiple teams, we completed the full removal in 48 hours. Our specialist teams left the site clear and clean for smooth handover to the Royal Hospital Chelsea.