Dressage, Cross-Country, Jumping, and more!
Rider and horse competing with precision, obedience, stamina, versatility, and endurance all carried out with elegance.
From beginning to end it was a whirlwind of excitement spread over three consecutive days. There was so much to take in ~ When I wasn't watching the competitions, I was admiring lovely ladies, dashing lads, adorable dogs, and shopping. All the while trying to snap great photos along the way.
This is a post of very few words but I still want to share some photos of the highlights, to give you a taste of the Rolex Kentucky! Next year you have to come to Lexington and we'll go together! See, I saved you a seat!
A welcome reception for competitors and their sponsors was held the night before at Spindletop Hall here in Lexington.
Established in 1935 on 800 acres of land, it's considered "a new place" and is the residence of the University of Kentucky Faculty, Staff, and Alumni Club.
The young set from Dubarry of Ireland led the way ~
Cocktails with some of the nicest folks from around the world that you'll ever meet.
I enjoyed visiting with Olympian & International CDN Eventer, Selena O' Hanlon ~
While MR. caught up with Carol Davidson, mother of International 3-day Event Rider, Buck Davidson.
The wonderful evening came to an early close out on the veranda since the tests were to begin early the next morning.
I am not the best at taking action shots so I borrowed a few ~
Buck Davidson during his Dressage test ~
Photo courtesy Buck Davidson Eventing
and Selena O' Hanlon on the Cross Country Course.
Photo courtesy Equine Canada via O' Hanlon Eventing
I did manage to smile my way into the media area and snapped this photo of Selena during her Jumping test!
Did I mention that Land Rover was also a sponsor?
Speaking of …
One of my favorite places to land at the Rolex is out on the cross country course at the Land Rover Pavilion.
Out on the countryside you can see much of the course.
The atmosphere is family-like, fun,
and very dog friendly.
The tailgating is amazing!
Land Rover's tailgate contest is always a feast for the eyes,
Not just for viewing, tailgate contestants were friendly and generous, encouraging these Lab lovers to linger.
Hostesses offered little sandwiches & gentlemen offered refreshing cocktails.
If you have a horse, you're in heaven at the Rolex.
If you don't, the young set at Dubarry will make you wish you did!
Coming full circle, I am reminded that horses and riders are the reason I'm sharing my 3-Day.
Horses and riders supported by devoted owners, trainers & mothers ~
Grooms and therapists and veterinarians ~
Friends and fellow eventers ~
Who come to cheer (and tweet and re-tweet) their teammates on.
They are what make events like the Rolex 3-Day so special.
They are all winners!
We are dog-tired after the 3-Day and Derby is on Saturday!
This year we'll be in Lexington, and cheering for California Chrome in the comfort of our old Kentucky home!
