Originally published at www.useventing.com

Announcer Brian O'Connor called it "difficult conditions." What started as a windy and slightly damp morning worsened as the day progressed, and by the time the Adequan USEA Gold Cup and PRO Tour Series CIC3* division got under way this afternoon, a cold rain blew sideways. Nevertheless, the first full day of competition at The Fork CIC3*, 2*, and Horse Trials finished on time, thanks in part to an awesome group of volunteers that included a local Boy Scout troop, and concluded with a gathering at "The Ordinary," one of The Fork's shooting lodges, where the course builders and maintenance crew had been roasting a pig all day in a hickory pit. Beside a roaring fire, competitors, grooms, owners, and family members warmed their bones and caught up on the day's happenings.

Only 10 of 57 CIC3* competitors rode their dressage tests this afternoon. The rest of the star-studded field, many of whom are getting in a final run before Rolex, will ride Friday in what is predicted to be considerably better weather. Jessica Phoenix (CAN) and Patras VR are the overnight leaders, having performed a flashy test for a 48.5. Will Faudree and Jennifer Mosing's 12-year-old Thoroughbred mare Andromaque are not far behind with a 49.3.

Some three-star competitors are taking part in a team competition as well. The Shoot with the Stars Clay Sport Shooting Competition raises money for the CIC3* division, and the shooting portion of the event took place on Wednesday. After a welcome lunch and gun safety talk, the shooters met their riders, who explained the sport of eventing and gave a mini course walk. The team shooting score from Wednesday will be combined with the final scores of the CIC3* competitors on their team to determine the winning team. Now in its third year, Shoot with the Stars provides a way for non-riders to interact with riders and celebrate outdoor sports. This year there are 15 teams with four shooters and two riders to each team.

Many more fun activities are planned throughout the weekend. Visit The Fork website for details.

For full results from The Fork, check Event Entries Live Scoring.