CHAMPAGNE, strawberries and, of course, horses are all part of a unique fundraiser in support of members of the island’s Pan American Games equestrian team.

The Royal Bermuda Ascot Garden Party and Horse Show is planned for May 27 at Ocean View Farm - an opportunity for residents to socialise and enjoy a host of entertainment including the Somerset Brigade Band and soloist Toni Robinson, and witness competition between some of the island’s finest horses.

Money raised will offset expensive travel costs for Annabelle Collins, Patrick Nisbett and Jillian Terceira, the three Bermudians who have qualified for the Pan American Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

The event is organised under the auspices of the Bermuda Equestrian Federation by a committee which includes those who have the riders’ best interests at heart - mothers Penny Terceira and Roz Collins and brother Jonathan Nisbett.

It is anticipated that each rider will have to pay $50,000 in order to transport themselves and their horses from their various bases in Europe, to South America in July.

Mrs. Terceira said the idea to hold an Ascot as a fundraiser - a first in Bermuda - was mooted by Brenda Richardson, who serves as her co-chairman for the event.

“She said she’d always wanted to hold an Ascot in Bermuda and I thought it was a great idea. Although there won’t be horse racing, it will be a social afternoon under a big tent and through the generosity of Malcolm Terceira, Jr., we are having it on grounds that are absolutely beautiful - at Ocean View Farm - which lends itself to horses and to our afternoon of champagne and strawberries.”

The plan is for guests to experience a range of entertainment as part of a fun-filled afternoon, Mrs. Collins said.

“There will be some competition jumping and other things to entertain our guests. We have one rider who is going to do a dressage performance to music - it’s something which is sometimes compared to ice skating, freestyle.

“There is a specific route that he will take in the arena and the horse will go through some sophisticated movements - flying changes, pirouettes. And we’re thrilled that Spicelands has put together a quadrille, where four junior riders will all be riding to music together.

“And then there will be strawberries and champagne and cucumber sandwiches. It’s not meant to be formal, it will be fun.”

Added Dr. Nisbett: “It’s for everyone, not just horse lovers. Toni Robinson, a soloist will perform and there are some pretty significant prizes that will be given away during the course of the day. It’s going to be a lot of fun.”

The Royal Bermuda Ascot Garden Party and Horse Show will be held at Ocean View Farm on St. Mark’s Road opposite St. Mark’s Church from 2 p.m. through 5 p.m. Admission is $100. Tickets are available from Aberfeldy Nursery on Pomander Road or Argonaut Limited, located at 5 Park Road. Tickets may also be purchased through Mrs. Terceira on 238-0244.