Local residents will have the opportunity to watch some of the most talented horses and riders in the area test their mettle this weekend at the Pine Top Thanksgiving Horse Trials, which take place at Pine Top Farm Nov. 27-28.
Horses and riders from all over the area will compete for top honors in the equestrian sport known as eventing. An Olympic sport since 1912, eventing is best described as an equestrian triathlon, with three phases that test the competitors' skills in the ring, over fences, and galloping across the countryside.
The divisions of competition this weekend are designed for horses and riders at almost all levels of the sport. While some will be content to win ribbons and bragging rights, others will also use this competition as a stepping stone to hopefully some day qualify for international caliber events in order to pursue their goal of one day representing their country at the Olympic Games.
Pine Top Farm is located on Augusta Highway. The competition is tentatively scheduled to begin at 8 a.m. Saturday, and 9 a.m. Sunday.
