200 riders to compete in Stuart Horse Trials

Entries are in, temporary stalls are up, jumps are ready, and riders and their horses from 15 states and Canada are preparing for their trip to Victor, NY to compete at the 25th anniversary of the Cosequin Stuart Horse Trials, July 11-13. And one of this year’s special spectator treats is watching former Olympic Gold Medalist Phillip Dutton compete at Stuart. Dutton also has been chosen as a member of Team USA at the 2014 World Equestrian Games later this summer in Normandy, France.In recognition of Stuart’s 25th anniversary milestone, the CEO of the United States Eventing Association (USEA) Jo Whitehouse, and USEA President and Board Chair Diane Pitts also will be in attendance.This event, the only one of its kind in the region, attracts approximately 15,000 spectators and pumps about $1 million into the local economy. Sunday’s additional highlight is a Scottish Highland Games Competition with The Buffalo Heavies.The three competitive and diverse phases of eventing—dressage, cross country, and show jumping—tests the physical and mental strength and endurance of both rider and horse. This year’s divisions range from Beginner Novice through CIC2* (star ratings for the sport of eventing from the French Concours International Combiné).The 2014 event schedule is as follows. Events are weather-dependent, so spectators are advised to check the website www.stuarthorsetrials.org before heading out:Friday, July 11: 8 am-conclusion; Dressage for all levelsSaturday, July 12: 8 am-conclusion; Cross Country for all levels and Show Jumping for upper levels (CIC1* and CIC2*)Sunday, July 13: 8 am-conclusion; Show Jumping for Beginner Novice through Intermediate divisions; Scottish Highland Games competition (9 am – 5 pm); and Wegmans Kids Day including Highland Games for Kids (9 am – noon)A daily parade of adoptable dogs from Lollypop Farm takes place from 10 am–noon, and a variety of food and equestrian-themed vendors will be open throughout the Trials.Admission to Stuart is free, with a parking fee of $10/car/day, or $25/all three days. Stuart is sponsored by Cosequin of Nutramax Labs, and presented by Townline Truck and Trailer.