The test event for the new Maryland Five-Star (canceled/postponed to 2021) was originally supposed to take place back in April just two weeks before the Kentucky Three-Day event (which of course was also canceled, R.I.P. 2020 North American five-stars). With all those big events thrown out the window thanks to COVID, that test event never did take place as scheduled in the spring.
Now that eventing is back in business (well, sort of) eager riders got to test out the new track that will be used for the eventual Maryland Five-Star this past weekend in conjunction with the Fair Hill International August horse trials. With COVID restrictions still in place, no spectators were allowed at the event, but we can take a peek at CCI3*-S action thanks to Area II eventer Emma Hinke. Emma captured tons of footage of various rider and fences, including some of the key questions on course. Thanks for sharing, Emma! You can find video recaps of other big events Emma has attended on her YouTube channel, along with videos chronicling the training of her OTTB gelding.
Here’s a little peek at the turf track as well, thanks to Sara Kozumplik Murphy! Neither event horses nor racehorses are running on the turf this year to allow it to take root and establish itself, but we’ll likely see the five-star cross country track start and end on the oval next year. Check out the brand new arenas in the infield as well. Lookin’ good, Fair Hill, lookin’ good!
Fair Hill International HT: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [Schedule]
