Final U.S. Driving Selection Trial for 2010 WEG at The Laurels at Landhope CDE

The Laurels at Landhope Combined Driving Event in Pennsylvania will be the final U.S. driving selection trial before the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.

July 14, 2010 — The Laurels at Landhope International Combined Driving Event, one of the most prestigious events of its kind in the U.S., will be held in West Grove, Chester County, Pa., September 10-12, 2010. Combining family fun with international equestrian competition in a beautiful country setting just 40 miles from Philadelphia, the event hosts the best drivers from Canada, Mexico and the United States, who compete in a series of three events with combinations from single horses and ponies to four-in-hands. It features competition in Preliminary, Intermediate and Advanced Divisions. The Laurels is the final driving selection trial for the team that will represent the U.S. at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Kentucky later in September. It features the U.S. National Championships for ponies and pair horses.

Combined driving requires a unique partnership between horse or pony and driver that relies on training and trust. An offshoot of ridden three-day eventing, it features the elegance of dressage, the excitement of cross-country and a cones course, an intricate test of skill and precision. The competition begins at 8 a.m. each day. Dressage is held Friday, marathon on Saturday and cones on Sunday.

Though The Laurels at Landhope show grounds cover 44 acres, the two competition arenas, trade fair, exhibition area with two restaurants, and the Patron Tent all adjoin one another. The marathon hazards, the highlight of the event, are adjacent and easily visible to spectators.

Sunday’s activities include Jack Russell terrier races and a parade and display of antique coaches pulled by four in hands. The Barbone Street Jazz Band plays throughout the day Saturday and Sunday. Members of the Chester County Antique Car Club will display their vintage automobiles both days. Rock Around The Clock, an evening of dinner, drinks, live music and dancing, will raise funds to support The Laurels on Saturday night.

Admission to The Laurels at Landhope CDE is $5 per car, which includes admission for all occupants. Tickets for the patron tent, which includes daily preferred parking and lunch Saturday and Sunday, are $85. For more information and directions, visit www.laurelscde.org.

What did you think of this article?

Thank you for your feedback!