The GMHA Festival of Eventing kicked off yesterday in South Woodstock, Vt., with both Junior and Senior divisions running Novice and Training Three-Days. Three-days are a wonderful opportunity for riders of all levels to gain more experience in the sport, and we’re big advocates of preserving the three-day format at the lower levels.
Currently in the Senior Training Three-Day, there is a tie for first between Sarah Pyne and Quintessential and Nicole Carroll with Carolina PCH, who both scored a 36.6 in dressage. There are 11 entries into this division, and less than 10 points separate the entire field going into the endurance phase, so plenty can change as the weekend progresses.
In the Junior Training Three-Day, Cornelia Dorr and Sir Patico MH currently lead over Mariah Gallien and Clonmethan Crest. These two pairs are the only ones entered in this division, so the competition is on, ladies!
Nancy Read and Lillie took the early lead in the Senior Novice Three-Day, earning a 30.7 in the dressage to take the lead over Kaitlyn Sutherland and Indian Summer.
Finally, in the Junior Novice Three-Day, Maura Eldridge and Daddy Said Yes took a sizable lead over Marcy Daley and No Greater Coyote, scoring a 31.8 in the dressage. This is another smaller division of three competitors, so it will be a battle for the lead for all involved.
Cross country kicks off this morning, and we’ll have more updates from the GMHA Festival as it progresses. Many thanks to Joan Davis of Flatlandsfoto for sending in these great shots of the early leaders. Best of luck to all riders!