Millbrook Horse Trials ready for 40th anniversary

MILLBROOK — The Millbrook Horse Trials will mark a major milestone this summer as they celebrate their 40th anniversary — a legacy of world-class equestrian sport, land conservation and community engagement.

Held from July 24 to 27 on the scenic grounds of Riga Meadow at Coole Park, the four-day event features dressage, cross-country and stadium jumping. But it also offers a full weekend of family-friendly fun, with food trucks, local vendors, a petting zoo, tailgating and a Trade Fair and Millbrook Weekend Market.

Roughly 400 horses will compete, from Olympic athletes to young, local riders. Spectators can walk the cross-country course, catch stadium jumping from benches and enjoy refreshments.

Board members Mimi Babcock and Nancy Stahl, longtime stewards of the event, say the Horse Trials’ endurance stems from its competitive range and community spirit.

“One of the things that makes the Millbrook Horse Trials special is that it’s a true community event,” said Stahl. “There’s something for everyone — from elite sport to great food and vendors. Saturday’s cross-country day is a favorite — it’s exciting and beautiful to watch.”

In a retrospective on the event’s history, event volunteer and writer Tara Kelly noted that the Millbrook Horse Trials was “born out of tragedy.” When founding organizer Louise Meryman lost her barn and all of her horses in a fire in 1982, clients rallied to rebuild on what had been the Kinney family dairy farm. “It’s the same land the event still calls home today,” Kelly wrote.

That land was later saved from development by a group of conservation-minded residents and ultimately transferred to Millbrook School, securing the Trials’ future and tying the event closely to local land preservation efforts.

“It’s thanks to that community effort that we’re able to use this land today,” said Babcock. “It’s a real example of how preservation and sport can work together.”

As the only Advanced-level horse trials in United States Eventing Association Area 1, the Millbrook Horse Trials have become a key event for riders at the top of the sport.

“So many events have closed across the country in the last 10 years,” said Babcock. “We’re one of the few left. Riders come from as far as Virginia, Florida and New England. It’s incredibly exciting for the sport.”

But it’s not just for top competitors. With levels ranging from beginner novice to advanced, the event draws riders of all backgrounds — from Olympians to children riding with trainers.

“That inclusivity is part of what’s kept us going,” Stahl said. “Younger riders warming up next to Olympic athletes — it’s inspiring. The kids always want autographs.”

The event wouldn’t be possible without a vast network of volunteers and sponsors. Key supporters this year include Goldman Sachs, Porsche of Danbury, Bank of Millbrook, Millbrook Equine, Rhinebeck Equine and Yellow Frames Farm, among others. Babcock and Stahl also gave thanks to fellow board member Caroline Merison, and volunteers Louise Meryman and Olivia van Melle Kamp.

The Trials also host a Sunday benefit luncheon near the stadium course, where guests can purchase tickets or reserve private tents.

“It’s a lovely way to enjoy the day and recognize the people who make this event happen,” Stahl said.

“This is a team effort,” Babcock said. “Our mission is to keep it going, to bring in the next generation of riders and volunteers so this can continue. Millbrook is on the map, and we’re proud of that.”

The Millbrook Horse Trials are free and open to the public, welcoming both horse lovers and curious newcomers to one of the region’s most celebrated summer events.