May 08, 2012

9th Annual Surefire Horse Trials Open for Entries

Sara Kozumplik and Manolo Blahnik won the 2011 $10,000 J.C. Chester Intermediate Challenge at the Surefire Horse Trials in Purcellville, Virginia. Leslie Mintz/USEA Photo.

The ninth annual Surefire Horse Trials, to be held June 22-24 at Jan Byyny’s Surefire Farm in Purcellville, Virginia, will once again feature the $10,000 John C. Chester/SmartPak Intermediate Challenge on Friday, with Beginner Novice through Preliminary divisions running over Saturday and Sunday.

Popular with professionals as well as amateurs, the Surefire Horse Trials are set on Byyny’s spectacular Virginia property which features rolling terrain, beautifully presented cross-country jumps, and grass dressage and stadium arenas. Over 400 horses competed in 2011 and organizers expect a similar turn-out this year. Surefire has also been designated a Professional Riders Organization (PRO) Junior Young Rider Training Level Scholarship observation competition. Young riders who wish to be considered for PRO’s Eastern U.S. Training Scholarship will be vying to win a free week’s training with either Jan Byyny or Marcia Kulak. For more information about PRO’s Training Level Scholarship, go to: http://www.professionalriders.org/jr_scholarship.htm.

Horse Trials organizers Jan Byyny and Christy Stauffer have assembled an experienced team of officials to ensure the best competition yet, including course designer Tremaine Cooper, jump builders Trav Schick, Joe Stylos and Josh Sylce, and masterful event secretary Mary Coldren handing entries and scheduling.

Help with the horse trials is needed for all three days; please contact Christy Stauffer to find out more [email protected] Surefire has become legendary for their excellent treatment of volunteers—sign up today!

More information about the Surefire Horse Trials can be found at www.surefireeventing.com or by contacting Organizers Jan Byyny (540-338-0797) or Christy Stauffer (540-295-1024). Entries close June 5th.

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