Riding High
Millbrook has long been recognized as the heart of horse country and this weekend it lives up to that tradition with the return of the Millbrook Horse Trials. The trials will be held Thursday through Sunday at Riga Meadow at Coole Park, 1031 Bangall-Amenia Road.
The MHT is recognized by the United States Eventing Association (USEA) and is the largest such event in the Northeast. While contestants range from novice to expert, it is the only one with an advanced division.
U.S. Olympic team riders regularly compete at Millbrook to warm up for the top international competitions. Some 400 riders and their support staff come to the community each year.
Eventing includes three equine disciplines: Dressage, cross country and stadium jumping. MHT provides all recognized levels of competition from USEA Beginner Novice to Advanced level.
General spectators are welcomed free. Patron Gold or Silver packages are sold out but those looking for a more elite experience can reserve a tailgating spot for 10 persons to watch the upper level cross country event Saturday. Bring a tent and chairs and plan to visit the trade fair vendors and pop-up boutiques, enjoy varied cuisine from the food trucks, drinks from The Fizzy Filly and go the petting zoo for the kids. Space is very limited and each space costs $200.
Each event is different. Thursday and Friday are quieter days when visitors can enjoy the beautiful views, watch the upper level dressage, visit the trade fair and choose from food options from Cider Bros Road House, The Fizzy Filly, Hangars Café, Lulu’s Kitchen on Wheels, (Tex-Mex selections), Pizza Vitale, and Poké Motion (selling Hawaii’s counterpart to hamburgers and hotdogs).
Saturday brings a country-fair atmosphere as the upper levels run the cross-country event. The food and beverage trucks, vendors and 10 pop-up boutiques will be open all day. Saturday is also family day with a petting zoo, pizza and ice cream.
Sunday the upper level show jumping is the climax of the competition.
Check the Schedule of Events at the link below for specific details and updates.
