Tamie Smith and Mai Baum at Fair Hill. Photo by Jenni Autry.
The Dutta Corp Fair Hill International Three-Day Event just announced a hefty boost in prize money for the premier fall event in Elkton, Maryland, bumping up from $15,000 to $50,000.
“Our commitment in building this event to be a first-class experience for every competitor, horse and spectator is our top priority,” Carla Geiersbach, Executive Director of Fair Hill International, said. “With the partnership we have with our sponsors and community, we are able to elevate the standard of competition and provide a truly unique and VIP experience for all who attend.”
Fair Hill currently hosts the USEF CCI3* and CCI2* National Championships, as well as the Young Event Horse East Coast Championships, which this year will be held Oct. 11-15. This is the second time in as many months that Fair Hill has made headlines, as the USEF is recommending the venue to host a new CCI4* starting in 2019.
While the venue is slated to undergo a total overhaul to accommodate the new CCI4*, Fair Hill is already making changes for the fall horse trials, expanding the hospitality and shopping options and placing vendors and additional spectator tents in the heart of the competition. The tailgating area has also been expanded to offer even more opportunities to enjoy the thrill of Derek di Grazia’s cross country course.
Fair Hill has also added a 5K this year, sponsored by Gore Running Wear, along with a Craft Beer and Sports Expo on cross country Saturday, Oct. 14. All of the usual demonstrations — ranging from dog agility and pony drill teams to face painting and local food vendors — will all return for this year’s event.
Admission to Fair Hill is free on Thursday, Oct. 12 for the first day of dressage. General admission tickets for the second day of dressage on Friday, Oct. 13 are available at the gate for $10. General admission tickets for cross country on Saturday, Oct. 14 and show jumping on Sunday, Oct. 15 are available at the gate for $15 per person.
Children under 12 are admitted free of charge, as are 4-H and FFA members (with ID), Pony Club members (with pin), and military members and their dependents (with ID). Seniors 65 years and older are admitted at a discount price of $5 per person.
For tickets, including VIP packages, and more information, visit www.fairhillinternational.com.
[The Dutta Corp. Fair Hill International Increases Prize Money to $50,000]
