The Colorado Horse Park Expands Eventing Season; David O'Connor and Gina Miles Headline Clinic Schedule
RELEASE: April 2, 2009
AUTHOR/ADMINISTRATOR: By Christine DeHerrera
The Colorado Horse Park kicks off an exciting season of eventing on May 2 with the Eventing Derby. This is followed by the highly anticipated Colorado Horse Park CCI** on May 29-31. Educational clinics with Olympic Gold medalist David O' Connor, international judge Sally O'Connor and Olympic Silver medalist Gina Miles, and a one-day horse trial in August, are also included on the expanded calendar. The Colorado Horse Park National Horse Trials on October 2-4 finishes what is expected to be a highly competitive season at the park. The park's 2009 roster continues the tradition of world-class competition in all equestrian disciplines, as well as family fun that both spectators and competitors have come to expect. The full schedule of horse shows, grand prix and other events can be found on the park's website.
"We are committed to serious eventing, and we look forward to seeing top riders from around the country and around the world competing once again at the Colorado Horse Park," said the park's founder and president, Helen Krieble. "The two-star event in May draws Olympic-level riders who rise to the challenge of the competition and always delight spectators." Olympians like Amy Tryon and Stuart Black are just two of the international stars that have competed at the park over the years. As always, competitors can expect to find top-notch courses by Olympic Gold medalist David O' Connor.
Eventing is one of the few Olympic sports in which men and women compete against each other. The three phases of the sport, known as the triathlon of equestrian competitions, are an adrenaline rush for spectators and competitors alike. From the precision of dressage to the speed, power and thrill of cross-country, the Colorado Horse Park is the place to witness the amazing connection between horse and rider.
In addition to incredible competition, the park is committed to education, and this year offers clinics by three of the world's most respected riders and teachers. Eventing pioneer and world-renowned judge and clinician Sally O' Connor is sure to wow the crowd with her insight on June 1. Riders will also enjoy 2008 Olympic Silver medalist Gina Miles as she shares the skills that brought her to the top of the sport on June 20-21. David O' Connor makes a rare educational appearance in Colorado on July 14-15. This exciting event is open to both eventing and jumper riders of all levels.
"It's always been a priority to offer educational programs as part of the Colorado Horse Park's mission," continued Krieble. "We are very excited to bring top international clinicians like Gina and Sally to Colorado."
Eventing Schedule at a GlanceFree admission and parking at all events.
— May 2: Eventing Derby
— May 29-31: Colorado Horse Park CCI**
— June 1: Sally O'Connor clinic
— June 20-21: Gina Miles clinic
— August 16: Horse Trials
— October 2-4: Colorado Horse Park National Horse Trials
Eventing is not the only excitement on the Colorado Horse Park's calendar. The sizzling Colorado Summer Circuit returns this July with $275,000 in jumper prize money and three grand prix show jumping events. But it's not all horses at the park. There's a must-see event this spring for dog lovers—the Sheep Dog Stock Trial on May 23-26. As one of the top shows in the country, this is the opportunity to see some of the country's best sheep dogs.
For the first time, the Colorado Horse Park is opening its western-style arenas free of charge on weekdays to local organizations for equestrian endeavors such as practice runs, open horse shows, barrel racing, roping, reining, etc. The arenas are also available to rent for a nominal fee on weekends. Facilities include warm-up and competition arenas, chutes and cattle pens, parking area and more.
"We want to support our local Western riding groups and to fully utilize the