United States Eventing Association

What’s Exciting about the '09 Fox River Valley Pony Club Horse Trials?
New Sponsors, Courses, Tracks, Jumps and Scheduling – That’s What!

If you attended the '08 FRVPC HT, you were the beneficiary of many big changes, including new course design, the addition of an IP and BN division, and the return of the ever popular competitors’ party. For 2009, your organizing committee has listened to you, the competitors, and is on track to bring you even more exciting changes.

With the return of the Platinum Sponsorship of Barrington Saddlery, and the addition of Gold Sponsors Morton Buildings, Cotter Construction and the Wiseman Family, the long-term continuous upgrade of the cross-country course is rolling full steam ahead. The objective of adding an Intermediate course in the near future, perhaps as early as next year, has sparked the addition of new jumps and new tracks. Big surprises are in store for this year’s riders as a spectacular new complex is being developed in conjunction with exciting new changes at the water.

The view from the ever-popular sponsors’ tent at the water has been vastly improved to allow viewing of many more jumps in all divisions. In addition, Mr. Jonathon Holling will be this year’s Sponsor’s Celebrity Host. A veteran of National and International competition, Jon will host the sponsors’ brunch in the tent on cross-country day, and lead a course walk of the IP/Preliminary course for all sponsors and guests via golf cart convoy, just prior to the running of the IP/Preliminary cross-country. 2009 Sponsorships are still being accepted with enormous opportunities and perks available at all levels.

The forecast from our turf management team for the 2009 event is excellent. Since early 2008 a vigilant approach to aerovation, mowing, fertilization and over-seeding has given us the best possible preservation of turf quality and moisture. We are committed to providing the best footing for your horse – secure, elastic and forgiving.

You told us it would make more sense to have the less experienced horses do dressage in the sand instead of on the grass, and we listened. In '09, more time in the sand arena has been designated to lower level dressage. New stadium jumps have been purchased and the stadium schedule improved to provide better clarity and structure for competitors. Our sound system is being upgraded to provide better communication, and we promise, we will not run out of food, wine, music or fun at the 2009 FRVHT Competitors’ Bash.

The 2009 FRVPC HT is emerging as one of the top destination events for horses and riders from across the country. Entries are filling fast and as the closing date approaches all riders are encouraged to get in before it fills completely. You, the competitors are what really make this event a success, and the FRVPC HT organizing committee and 2009 Sponsors can’t wait to show you the bold new changes we’ve been working on for 2009. See you on June 25-28 in Barrington Hills, Illinois!