The Coronavirus outbreak has forced the cancellation of this year’s MARS Essex Horse Trials Country Weekend.
Scheduled for July 18-19 at historic Moorland Farm in Far Hills, New Jersey, the MARS Essex Horse Trials features world-class and up-and-coming riders competing in Advanced and through Beginner Novice divisions. Benefiting the Greater Newark LifeCamp in Pottersville, New Jersey, the event offers a variety of family friendly activities including a classic car show, farm stand, demonstrations, vendors and the Willow school Children’s Activity Center.
“This is disappointing for all of us” said Ralph Jones, President of the MARS Essex Horse Trials. “We considered various ways where we might be able to proceed but none with which we felt completely comfortable. In the end, nothing is more important than the safety and wellbeing of our 300 competitors, 182 volunteers and nearly 5,000 spectators and that is the overriding factor.”
“We want to thank MARS Equestrian™, our title sponsor as well as AIG, Peapack Private Wealth Management, Running S Equine Veterinary Services, RWJ Barnabas Health, Open Road Auto Group for the continued support and we look forward to welcoming everyone back for a great event at Moorland Farm in 2021!”
About the MARS Essex Horse Trials Country Weekend
The MARS Essex Horse Trials was and is a major highlight on the equestrian calendar, attracting top American and international competitors as well as thousands of fans who have also enjoyed its social aspects. The event was originally conceived in 1968 by the Haller Family at Hoopstick Farm in Far Hills, New Jersey. Proceeds from the event benefit the Greater Newark LifeCamp in nearby Pottersville, which provides an enriching day camp experience for approximately 300 Newark-area children per day for six weeks during July and August.
The Essex Horse Trials did not take place for a number of years after losing its last venue due to local development. Then in 2017, due to the generosity of Guy Torsilieri and Ron Kennedy, Moorland Farms was made available.
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 AIG, Peapack Private Wealth Management, Running S Equine Veterinary Services, RWJ Barnabas Health, and Open Road Auto Group.
For additional information, please visit www.essexhorsetrials.org.
More from News:
