I have just spent the last 5 days commuting back and forth to Allentown to photograph the 2011 Jersey Fresh CCI/CIC two and three star events. Jersey Fresh evolved from the old three day event started in my neck of the woods known as the Essex Horse Trials. The first events were held at Hoopstick Farm in Bedminter, the home of Roger Haller, a driving force behind the trials. It was then and still is an event supported by volunteers. I have fond memories of painting lots and lots of white dressage fences with friends, others served as fences judges, runners, etc. We were all put to work and had a lot of fun doing it. The Essex Horse Trials later moved to Hamilton Farm in Gladstone, the home of the USET at the time. The event grew larger and attracted both American and international competitors. Roads and tracks were held on the dirt roads of the surrounding area and the steeplechase phase in a large field, nearby. The event has since moved to Allentown at the horse park, formats have changed, but is still a great competition for riders and spectators alike. If you have never been, mark you calendar for next May. Go eventing!


