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Mars Essex Horse Trials Country Weekend
Moorland Farm, Far Hills, New Jersey
June 21-23, 2019
Olympic Veterans Dominate Competition at Mars Essex Horse Trials
Boyd Martin wins Preliminary Essex Division and
Will Coleman Leads Advanced Division Heading Into Cross Country
Far Hills, New Jersey - June 22, 2019 -
What a difference a day makes! After several days of rain, weather conditions improved immensely for the first day of competition at the 2019 Mars Essex Horse Trials Country Weekend and the crowd responded. Thousands turned out Saturday to watch top horses and riders compete at historic Moorland Farm.
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Boyd Martin and Luke 140
Photo: i{mpack}t studio photography
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Two-time U.S. Olympic veteran Boyd Martin led throughout to win the Preliminary Essex Division riding Luke 140. The Cochranville, Pennsylvania resident scored 22.90 in dressage, added 3.20 time faults in the cross country phase and had a single rail in show jumping to finish with a score of 30.10 penalties.
"It was a real honor and privilege to compete here at the MARS Essex Horse Trials," said Martin. "The conditions were tough, but this is an outdoor sport and the organizers put on a sensational show. I am very, very pleased to win the Preliminary Essex Division and I'm thrilled to be here."
Boyd Martin accepts his awards for winning the Preliminary Essex Division
Photo: i{mpack}t studio photography
Cornelia Dorr and Daytona Beach 8 moved up from seventh to second. After incurring only four time penalties in cross country, the pair jumped clean in show jumping to finish with a score of 31.10. Olympic veteran Will Coleman and Steam Engine steamed their way into third, moving up from 11
th
by going clean cross country and having just a single rail down in show jumping for a final score of 33.80.
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Will Coleman and
Obos O'Reilly
Photo: i{mpack}t studio photography
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Immediately after the Preliminary Essex, Coleman took the lead in the Advanced Division riding the 16-year-old Irish Sporthorse, Obos O'Reilly. The pair scored 31.70 in dressage and added four jumping faults in show jumping for an overnight score of 35.70.
Jennie Brannigan and I Bella stand in second place with 37.30
"I had a great day," said Coleman. "My horse is an old soldier. He's been a very dear horse in our program so we're happy that he's in the lead. I think the real winners today are the people here at Essex. The effort that was put in, the atmosphere and really everything about the event deserves all the praise. This is my first time competing here and I am thrilled to be here."
The Mars Essex Horse Trials Country Weekend culminates on Sunday with the cross country phase of the Advanced Division
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the remaining Training divisions, and the Novice Divisions. Also featured is the spectacular Classic Car show with the MARS No. 18 M&M'S® Toyota car. The Mars Candy Hunt will take place in the afternoon as well as other family friendly activities. The Essex Market will be open offering
a wide range of shopping from saddles and riding boots to jewelry, fresh farm-to-table food from local markets and specialties from artisan vendors.
For a complete list of results, click here
Eventing, often referred to as an "equestrian triathlon," combines the elegance of dressage, the thrill of cross-country, and the precision of show jumping. Eventing provides a rare opportunity for spectators of all ages and interests to witness a discipline that highlights the unique trust and bond between horse and rider. This year, Essex will feature an Advanced division with Olympic-level riders on top horses in addition to other divisions for up-and-coming horses and riders.
About the MARS Essex Horse Trials
For three decades, the famed Essex Horse Trials was a major highlight on the equestrian calendar, attracting top American and international competitors as well as thousands of fans who enjoyed its social aspects as well. The event was originally conceived in 1968 by the Haller Family at Hoopstick Farm. Proceeds from the event benefit the Greater Newark LifeCamp in nearby Pottersville, which provides an enriching summer day camp experience for approximately 300 Newark-area youths for six weeks during July and August.
Moorland Farm, a picturesque 230-acre property, provides the breathtaking setting for the event's current edition. It is the home of the annual Far Hills Race Meeting, a nationally prestigious steeplechase race meeting held each October.
Mars, Inc., the original sponsor of the Essex Horse Trials, returned in 2017 and continues as the event's title sponsor. Presenting sponsors include Open Road Auto Group, Peapack-Gladstone Bank, RWJ Barnabas Health, Running 'S' Equine Veterinary Services, and AIG.
About MARS EQUESTRIAN
MARS EQUESTRIAN, a brand and sponsorship division within MARS INCORPORATED, is the link between our iconic brands and the equestrian community. For generations, MARS has celebrated a rich equestrian heritage, and through purposeful partnerships, MARS EQUESTRIAN is committed to the sport and building an enduring legacy. From world-class competitions across all equestrian disciplines, to stewarding the power of horses on society and sustainability, MARS EQUESTRIAN is dedicated to our purpose to improve the lives of horses, pets, and the people who love them.
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