Kelsey Briggs and The Gentleman Pirate. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
Thursday’s first horse inspection at Virginia Horse Trials couldn’t have been more colorful if it had taken place inside a crayon box, with bright bursts of autumn leaves framing the scene.
The event received a record number of entries for the October CCI/CIC and Horse Trials and will start 550 horses from Starter through CCI2* level this weekend. This year, VHT is also host of the USEF One-Star Eventing Championship, which will see more than 70 competitors vying for the Richard Collins Trophy and Harry T. Peters Trophy. In addition, eight teams will participate in the fall Intercollegiate Team Challenge, and by popular request two alumni teams will represent their former schools alongside current students. Get ready for a busy weekend at the Virginia Horse Center!
CCI2*/CIC2* competitors presented to the ground jury of Wayne Quarles (USA) and Robin Fisher (USA). CCI1* competitors presented to Vanda Stewart (IRL) and Ellen Prichard Bryan (USA). The FEI Veterinary Delegate is Sandi Farris, DVM (USA). Leslie Threlkeld posted these stunning photos from the jog to VHT’s Facebook page:
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- Juliana Hansen and Lovely Assistant. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
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- Neil Donnelly and Fool Proof. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
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- Jessica Phoenix’s Bentley’s Best. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
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- Boyd Martin and Contestor. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
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- Nicholas Beshear and Copycat Chloe. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
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- Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
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- Jimmie Holotik Schramm and Eclaire. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
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- Lydia Sarro and Cornmill Bob. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
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- Jessica Phoenix’s Watson GS. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
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- Jessica Phoenix and Humble GS. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
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- Valerie Vizcarrondo Pride and Favian. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
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- Tiffany Wandy and Doctor James. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
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- Cole Horn and Cooley Sligo. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
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- Kelsey Briggs and The Gentleman Pirate. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
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- Erin Strader and Live and Learn. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
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- Sarah Cousins and Stravinsky. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
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- Monica Fiss Burdette and Old Fashion Love Song and Malibu Rock. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
Dressage for international competitors and the Intermediate and Preliminary horse trials divisions began today. All three phases of eventing will run on the first day of competition as the CIC2* will negotiate a show jumping course designed by Chris Barnard and the Intermediate and Preliminary divisions will ride across the country on courses designed by Andy Bowles and John Michael Durr.
Organizer Andy Bowles extends a warm welcome to all competitors, owners and supporters and wishes great rides for all: “It’s fabulous to see the great numbers we have this weekend, and I’d like to thank everyone for choosing to come to VHT.”
Virginia CCI, CIC, & H.T.: Website, Entry Status, Ride Times, Live Scores
