Millbrook Horse Trials is Back on 2023 Eventing Calendar
24 May, 2023 — Millbrook, NY – The Board of Directors of the Millbrook Horse Trials is delighted that the annual event is back on the calendar for July 27-30, 2023. Millbrook is one of the few remaining horse trials in the Northeast, is by far the largest, and is the only one that still runs all levels through Advanced. The event typically attracts world-class equestrians including Boyd Martin, Phillip Dutton, Buck Davidson, Doug Payne, Will Coleman and many others.
The Millbrook area is characterized by large areas of open farmland and has a strong equestrian tradition. It boasts a local Pony Club, thriving foxhunt and active polo club, and is home to riders of all types. The Horse Trials features natural cross country courses over preserved countryside, world-class competition, first-class social events, and entertainment for the whole family. It enjoys strong support from the local community.
Mimi Babcock and Caroline Merison took over as co-chairs of the board when longtime chair Simon Roosevelt stepped down at the end of 2022.
Merison said, “Mimi and I are excited to take on the challenge of re-invigorating the Millbrook Horse Trials after a couple of years’ hiatus. It is a wonderful event that has 30 years of history and we feel that it is important to keep this event on the map. We are well aware that there are areas that need improvement, but we are starting with wonderful raw material: a beautiful natural track, a small but hardworking team and, especially, a wonderful and supportive local community.”
Babcock added, “We have been humbled by the support from so many of the local community who recognize the importance of equine pursuits in preserving the signature open farmland of Millbrook.”
For now, both co-chairs agree, the board is principally focused on making Millbrook 2023 a success on which to build. “Morgan Rowsell and his team are working hard on improving and extending the cross country track, we have made a small first investment in new equipment and we are developing a longer term maintenance plan. We are also building up the country fair for the local community as well as riders and owners to enjoy. It should be a fun weekend for everyone!”
Sponsorship opportunities are still available. Sponsors this year include Yellowframe Farm, Goldman Sachs Gives, Danbury Porsche and Audi, Taylor Harris Insurance, HW Guernsey at Compass, Bank of Millbrook, Purina, Triple Crown, Millbrook Equine, and Millerton Agway as well as numerous families, farms and individual patrons
For sponsors and patrons, social events include a Saturday morning brunch at the Yellowframe Farm Waterview tent, overlooking the water complex during upper-level cross country, and a Sunday luncheon in private ringside tents overlooking the show jumping arena, where the climax of the competition can be viewed in style.
General admission and parking is free of charge. Food trucks and vendors will be on-site, with a petting zoo for children as well as free access to the Millbrook School Zoo next door, and an arts and crafts tent on-site. Tailgating is available during cross country. A welcome party for competitors and volunteers takes place Friday evening, sponsored by Purina and Triple Crown.
For more information visit www.millbrookhorsetrials.com
