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                                                          Foxhunting and Horse Trials

                                                       That's Our Business!

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Besides foxhunting, High Country Hounds organizes Horse Trials. These trials are in the same family as the Olympic Combined Training or Three Day Eventing. These types of equestrian events have their roots in the old cavalry units. In order to have some fun while keeping their horses fit, and perhaps to place a bet or two, cavalry officers devised competitions using their men and horses.Today's sport has evolved into three phases: dressage, stadium jumping, and cross-country jumping. Dressage is perhaps the most difficult phase. The dressage test requires each competitor to ride a specific pattern in an arena. The pattern must be ridden not only accurately, but beautifully. Stadium jumping could be described as dressage over fences. Again, accuracy is essential as is control, speed, cadence, and fortitude. The third phase, cross-country jumping, is reminiscent of fox hunting, another peacetime Cavalry occupation. In this phase, horse and rider must jump obstacles with careful control of speed over distance. This is a favorite of both competitors and spectators.

The horse trials are a very big weekend for all involved. For the competitors, it is a signpost along the way toward their future accomplishments and reflects many hours of preparation and hard work. For the organizers, a year's worth of planning and preparation comes to fruition. But, no event could ever take place without the help of many volunteers who give of their time and talents unselfishly. Many thanks for a job well done by everyone, and we hope to see you again next year.

High Country Hounds is working in conjunction with Alice Sarno for 3 Horse Trials through the spring and summer. In 2008, the dates for all the Horse Trials are: Spring Coconino HT . May 17th & 18th , Summer Coconino I . July 12th & 13th, Summer Coconino II .July 18th -20.  We are also invovled in the St Johns Horse Trials June 21st & 22nd.  All of these venues depend upon the help of volunteers, which we really appreciate!

                     

                   

                                          

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