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Jersey Fresh International Three-Day Event - An Event for Olympic Hopefuls

by Classic Communications | Feb 4, 2016, 10:47 AM

Michael Pollard riding Cyrano to victory at the 2015 Jersey Fresh International CCI** (Shannon Brinkman)
Michael Pollard riding Cyrano to victory at the 2015 Jersey Fresh International CCI** (Shannon Brinkman)
Allentown, N.J.
-- Instrumental in the Olympic and World Equestrian Games qualifying selection process for the United States and Canada, Jersey Fresh International Three-Day Event (JFI) returns to the Horse Park of New Jersey, May 11-15, to host qualifying selection trials for the U.S. Eventing Team that will compete in the 2016 Summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

In its 14th year, JFI has become one of the most influential international three-day events in the United States. Highlighted on the calendar by the sport's leading competitors, JFI will run both CCI and CIC Three-Star and Two-Star events. In addition to the CCI and CIC divisions, JFI and will introduce an Advanced Horse Trials Division that will likely draw more up-and-coming horses and riders.

"We are thrilled to once again host qualifying selection trials for the Olympic Games this year," said Dan Wunderlich, Chair of the JFI Organizing Committee. "This is a great opportunity for fans and the community to see horses and riders who will be on the U.S. Olympic team before they head off to Rio!"

Spectators at JFI will enjoy a fun and action-packed day watching former and future Olympians such as Phillip Dutton, Buck Davidson and Boyd Martin, along with other riders at the top of the sport as they compete in the heart of beautiful New Jersey horse country. Last year, the winner of the CCI3* was Buck Davidson riding Ballynoe Castle RM; with Michael Pollard winning the CCI2* on Cyrano. Lauren Kieffer aboard Landmark's Monte Carlo won the CIC3* and Buck Davidson had another winning round in the CIC2* division riding Copper Beech.

Lauren Kieffer riding Landmark's Monte Carlo, winners of the 2015 Jersey Fresh International CIC*** (Shannon Brinkman)
Lauren Kieffer riding Landmark's Monte Carlo, winners of the 2015 Jersey Fresh International CIC*** (Shannon Brinkman)
JFI also provides a venue for spectators to enjoy a weekend of shopping and entertainment for equestrians and non-equestrians, alike. Attendees will be able to stroll and spend among many different vendors featuring tack, boots, clothing, supplements, artisan creations and a wide variety of specialty goods. Spectators can also participate in tailgating during the Cross-Country Phase of the competition, hat decorating contests, children's activities and so much more.

Admission to JFI and the Horse Park of New Jersey is free on Wednesday, May 11 (first Jog); Thursday, May 12 (Dressage phase, day one); and Friday, May 13 (Dressage phase, day two). General admission tickets for Saturday, May 12, and Sunday, May 13, are available at the gate for $10 per person. General Admission does not include admission to VIP/pre-reserved tents or pre-reserved tailgating spots. More information about tailgating and VIP/JFI Member packages is available online.

The Jersey Fresh international Three-Day Event also welcomes volunteers as a fun and educational way to get up close to all the action. Opportunities abound! Help out with the elegant Dressage Phase, be a fence judge on the ever-exciting cross-country course or join the fence crew for the nail-biting Show Jumping Finals. Volunteering is a great way for 4-H, FFA and Pony Club members to get a hands-on experience while learning about the great sport of Eventing.

The Jersey Fresh International Three-Day Event/Horse Park of New Jersey is a 501(c)(3) Not-For-Profit, Charitable, and Educational organization that relies on sponsors, volunteers and members to sustain operations. Further information about JFI is available at www.jfi3d.com. Further information about the Horse Park is available at www.horseparkofnewjersey.com.