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The Essex Horse Trials jumps back into action this summer, July 1-2, with a new format at two iconic locations. On Friday, dressage and show jumping will be held at Hamilton Farm, home of the USET Foundation Headquarters in Gladstone, NJ. The next day, the exciting cross-country phase returns to the familiar surroundings of historic Moorland Farm in Far Hills.
As one of the most popular equestrian events in New Jersey, the Essex Horse Trials features some of the nation's top horses and riders competing in the thrilling sport of eventing. The two-day sportfest includes family-friendly activities, a spectacular car show and fun demonstrations for a fantastic start to the holiday weekend. Additionally, the shift in the schedule will give more time for everyone to enjoy the holiday, which was important to event co-organizer Ralph Jones.
“The Essex Horse Trials is such a great way for families to enjoy a weekend in the country. We believe that the changes we made will benefit not only the competitors, but the spectators as well,” said Jones, who is President of the Essex Horse Trials. “Historic Hamilton Farm will provide a beautiful venue for dressage and show jumping while Moorland Farm offers a spectacular setting for the exciting cross-country course.”
More than 150 entries are expected to compete at the Beginner Novice, Novice, Training, and Preliminary divisions. Co-organizer Morgan Rowsell is also looking forward to the new format.
“The welfare of the horse is always of paramount importance for us. The two locations provide ideal conditions for the weekend,” said Rowsell. “Gladstone will have all-weather footing for dressage and show jumping while Far Hills will give the horses and riders of all levels a first-rate cross-country course.”
On Saturday, The Essex Horse Trials features the Peter Chesson Memorial Classic Car Show for horsepower enthusiasts outside the equestrian arena. Nearly 100 cars will be showcased representing more than a century of motorized technology.
General admission is $10.00 per car. Tailgating spots will be available for the best viewing of the exciting cross-country course at Moorland Farm. Packages range in cost from $50-$300 depending on location. For more info on tailgate packages and ringside sponsorships, please call 908-581-0514 or email lizzy@essexhorsetrials.org.
Proceeds from the Essex Horse Trials benefit the Greater Newark LifeCamp in nearby Pottersville, which provides an enriching day camp experience for approximately 300 Newark-area youths per day for six weeks during July and August.
Additional information on the Essex Horse Trials is available at www.EssexHorseTrials.org.
About the Essex Horse Trials
For three decades, the famed Essex Horse Trials was a major highlight on the equestrian calendar, attracting top American and international competitors as well as thousands of fans who enjoyed its social aspects in addition to the thrilling competition. The event was originally conceived in 1968 by the Haller Family at Hoopstick Farm.
Moorland Farm, a picturesque 230-acre property, provides the breathtaking setting for the event’s current edition. It is the home of the annual Far Hills Race Meeting, a nationally prestigious steeplechase race meeting held each October.
