Parker, CO – The Colorado Horse Park will again host the U. S. Equestrian National Combined Driving Singles Championship August 27 – 29. This prestigious event attracts drivers from around the United States, Canada and Mexico. They will compete for the national title as well as for awards in advanced, intermediate and preliminary divisions. In 2003, the Colorado Horse Park was honored when the facility was chosen to hold the Championship—the first time the event had ever been held west of the Mississippi.

The Colorado Horse Park will host the US Equestrian National Combined Driving Singles Championship for the second consecutive year.
Photo Credit: Ann L. Pringle

“We were extremely pleased to host the National Championships last year,” said event organizer Deborah Terry. “And even more thrilled that we were once again chosen to hold the event. The Colorado Horse Park is looking forward to providing a top notch marathon course and facility for the nation’s best drivers.” The Colorado Horse Park has been home to many other national and international events, including the North American Young Riders Championships.

Officials for the National Championship include many luminaries of the sport. FEI Course Designer Jamie O’Rourke will once again devise the courses. Head of the Jury is Diana Brownlie (Scotland). Members of the Ground Jury include Larry Poulin (USA), David Wharton (Bahamas), Craig Kellogg (USA) and Jane Lyndon (Canada). Diane Trefry (USA) will serve as the Technical Delegate.

Drivers from around the country can expect top-notch accommodations at the Colorado Horse Park, including 300 permanent stalls, several warm-up rings and a permanent marathon course. Friends and family of the exhibitors can enjoy the welcoming town of Parker as well as the many tourist attractions of the Denver area.

For those unfamiliar with the sport, combined driving requires strength and agility along with bravery of horse and driver as the competitors face three phases of challenging competition held over three days. Beginning with dressage, drivers demonstrate accuracy and quality of training in a series of prescribed movements. Day two, the marathon, focuses on strength and courage as horse and driver race cross-country and maneuver hazards, including a water obstacle. The third and final day of competition culminates in the cones phase, which assesses precision and offers spectators a thrilling demonstration of speed.

“Combined driving is a sport unlike any other,” explained Christine DeHerrera, media coordinator for the Colorado Horse Park. “The power and precision required of horse and driver is simply amazing.” Spectators are welcome for all three phases of the competition.

For more information on the U.S. Equestrian National Combined Driving Singles Championship, call 303-688-3266. For a complete schedule of upcoming events check out www.coloradohorsepark.com.

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