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Millbrook Horse Trials canceled

MILLBROOK — A great deal of time, effort and energy made the return of last year’s Millbrook Horse Trials (MHT) a great success after time off the year before because of the COVID pandemic. Many horse enthusiasts were looking forward to this year’s event once again, expecting it to be even bigger and better. But an announcement on Thursday, May 5, put an end to those hopes. It stated the following:

“With great regret, the Board of Millbrook Horse Trials announces the cancellation of this year’s event, which was scheduled to be held Aug. 4-7 in Millbrook, N.Y. Unfortunately they have not been able to come to a mutually acceptable agreement with one of the landowners on whom they rely to host the competition.”

The announcement was posted on the MHT’s website, www.millbrookhorsetrials.com.

Chairman of the Board Simon Roosevelt of Millbrook said the problem arose because of a disagreement with one of two properties used for the trials, Coole Park Farm, which is operated by Linda Bushnell of Riga Meadow Equestrian.

The board hopes to be able to come to an agreement with Coole Park Farm, which is located at 1031 Bangall Amenia Road in nearby Amenia. MHT is hoping it can use the site for the 2023 horse trials.

Coole Park Farm has two sections that are used in the trials. The other site used for the MHT is leased from Millbrook School located on 131 Millbrook School Road in the town of Washington. While that location plays host to the cross-country courses in the trials, it has only two small arenas.

Last year was MHT’s 20th year; the event is a major draw in the region for horse lovers  and equestrians near and far, including those at the Olympic level. It also brings countless horses and trainers from all over the world.

The MHT is an important event in the sporting world, as evidenced by the fact that the U.S. Eventing Association (USEA) has stepped in since news of this year’s cancellation was announced. It promised to help try to save the MHT.

“The USEA has committed to assist Millbrook to make sure that this incredibly important event continues into the future,” said President of USEA Max Corcoran. “We will work with the organizers of Millbrook to solve this and make sure that the event is viable.”

Judith O'Hara Balfe

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