The Garden State Combined Driving Event, presented annually by the Horse Park of New Jersey at Stone Tavern, Inc., is trying something new this year. In light of the financial difficulties being faced across the country, and in an effort to reduce expenses for exhibitors, the organizer has decided to compress the competition into a two-day format. The dressage phase of the competition will be held on Saturday, May 30, beginning at approximately 10:00 a.m., and the marathon and cones phases will be on Sunday, May 31, beginning at 8:00 a.m. Drivers will have the option of having their horses inspected on Friday afternoon or early Saturday morning.

“The competition is only two days shorter than in previous years,” said organizer Heather Walker. “But for many drivers, that means less time off from work, fewer meals out and fewer nights in a hotel. And, we hope people will find the unusual schedule on Sunday fun and exciting!”

On Sunday, the intermediate/preliminary/training levels will do sections A and D of the marathon, then enter the rest halt (which will also serve as their in-harness inspection). They will Start E, which includes the obstacles, and the first obstacle will be the cones course. There will be no whistle or salute. As competitors enter the flags, their time will start and the course will be judged as usual for cones; their time will end when they exit the flags. For purposes of the time allowed, the distance of the cones course will be added to the overall distance on section E. The advanced division will do their cones course after the marathon, approximately one hour after they finish section E, to allow them time to switch vehicles. They will not be required to dress.

This is the 17th running of the popular show and, as in other years, Garden State serves as a selection trial for the teams that will represent the United States in the world championships being held in Europe this summer. The event is an International Equestrian Federation (FEI) Qualifying Event, and is recognized by both the United States Equestrian Federation and the American Driving Society. Many of the best drivers in this country as well as Canada will be exhibiting.

For additional information, please contact Heather Walker at [email protected].