Back in the saddle again at Millbrook Horse Trials

MILLBROOK — One of the premier equestrian events of the Tristate region is the Millbrook Horse Trials, which were held last weekend at Riga Meadow at Coole Park.

Competitions began with dressage on Thursday, Aug. 5, which is an essential part of the three-part horse-and-rider competition known as eventing. Eventing began as a test for cavalry riders, and includes dressage, cross-country and jumping.

The Millbrook Horse Trials website describes the dressage test as, “a series of compulsory movements performed on the flat in an arena. The performance must be fluid, balanced, and accurate, presenting an overall picture of grace and harmony. It reflects the cavalry officer’s need for an obedient, attractive mount on the parade ground.”

Anyone who watched the equestrian portions of the Olympics in Tokyo will have seen horse and rider competing in what almost look like ballet; that is dressage.

Cross-country is more rugged. Rider and horse must negotiate obstacles on a natural course at high speed. 

There is jumping in the cross-country portion of the trials, but the actual jumping tests are done on a course with obstacles such as water and fixtures at different heights.

It isn’t only horses and riders who come to the annual Millbrook Horse Trials looking their best. The weekend is also a social highlight for horse country residents, with parties and luncheons throughout the weekend. 

For anyone who wants to upgrade their outdoor gear, there is also always an extensive outdoor vendor fair that features everything from saddles and boots to portraits of beloved animals.

To see the final results from the weekend, go to www. eventingnation.com and www.millbrookhorsetrials.com.