Plantation Field will host its second international horse trials beginning Friday, September 18, 2009. One of only a handful of prestigious international competitions in the region offering CIC*, CIC**, and CIC*** divisions, Plantation Field will provide fierce competition for riders of all levels and exciting events and activities for spectators and families.
"We're thrilled to enter our second year of international competition," said Denis Glaccum, co-director of Plantation Field International Horse Trials. "We have received overwhelming support from our neighbors in Chester County and our friends in the eventing community, who have pitched in to make this a truly spectacular event."
Held over three days, September 18-September 20, in Unionville, PA, the Plantation Field International Horse Trials are qualifiers for the United States Equestrian Federation's year-end championships. More than 230 horse-and-rider pairs have registered for the event, several of whom are Olympians currently ranked leaders in the nation. Riders to compete at Plantation, listed by their current United States Eventing Association (USEA) ranking, include:
• Phillip Dutton, Olympian ranked first nationally,
• Buck Davidson, Pan American Games competitor ranked second nationally,
• Boyd Martin, Olympian ranked third nationally,
• Leslie Law, ranked fourth nationally,
• Mara Dean, Olympian ranked ninth nationally,
• and Becky Holder, Olympian ranked 10th nationally.
In addition to the Olympians in competition this weekend, Plantation Field will also honor the seven Olympic equestrians who call Unionville home. In recognition of their contribution to the sport and Chester County's rich Olympic history, they will be presented with a plaque in a ceremony before the CIC show jumping phase on Sunday.
"We are privileged to have some of the most notable names in eventing's history with us this weekend," Glaccum continued. "What better way to honor these incredible athletes than with fierce competition on one of the most beautiful courses in the country?"
Plantation Field is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and sprawling courses. Contained within one vast field off Route 82 in the heart of Chester County, Plantation's courses took several years to complete as organizers and developers worked to maintain and restore the property. Designed with conservation in mind, Plantation Field offers unobstructed vistas that incorporate natural elements found on the site.
In addition to world-class competition, the Plantation Field International Horse Trials will also feature several events for spectators and families alike, including:
• ring-side marquee for riders, owners and sponsors,
• parade of hounds,
• celebrity bareback jumping,
• kids-on-foot jumping competition,
• Sunday brunch in honor of Chester County's Olympians,
• expanded trade fair,
• and a "kids' corner" with moon bounce, face painting and more.
Tickets can be purchased in advance at www.plantationfieldhorsetrials.com or at the gate. Special rates for groups apply.
Proceeds from the event will benefit The Barn at Spring Brook Farm, a local Chester County nonprofit that connects farm animals with special needs children.