At horse trials, jumps and a leap of faith (in form of marriage proposal)

MILLBROOK — The Fitch’s Corner Horse Trials unfolded at the farm of Fernanda Kellogg and Kirk Henckels this past weekend, July 24 and 25.

The weather — notorious for providing unwanted thrills — cooperated, and with the exception of a light rainstorm on Sunday afternoon, was without drama.

The heat on Saturday had some riders withdrawing before the competition was over, but most braved the high temperatures to complete all three phases of the competition.

Kellogg said a total of 250 riders competed, with one coming from as far away as Southern Pines, N.C., and the closest, Emma Lomangino, from one mile down the road.

“The weekend was filled with great sport and fun. However we had a first, with a proposal for marriage, so we now add romance as one of the highlights at Fitch’s Corner,� she said.

Rumor has it the lady accepted.

The horse trials encompassed four levels, from beginner novice through preliminary. Each horse-and-rider team had to prove itself in dressage, cross-country jumping and stadium jumping. In addition to the sporting aspect of the event, Fitch’s Corner also featured a luncheon, attended by more than 300 spectators (many of them bedecked in hats). Proceeds from the lunch will benefit the Millbrook Rescue Squad.

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