Press Release From The Whip: Yes, You Can Have Driving Events in the Winter Submitted by Susan Koso

Escaping by a day the biggest snowstorm (30 inches) in 20 years, the Myopia Driving Club hosted 20 competitors at an Arena Driving Event on March 4. Held at The Carriage Barn, in Newton, New Hampshire, the event was organized by Marc Johnson and Susan Koso and judged by Vivian Creigh of Springfield, Vermont.

Using snow-covered roads and warm-up areas to work out the kinks, the competitors drove special dressage tests written for the 23 m by 45 m arena. The space was then set with a 10 cone course, which was timed with Marc’s wireless electronic timer … a huge plus for quick and accurate timing. Following the lunch break, two marathon type obstacles were set. Training level drove A – D, Preliminary A – E. After driving in one direction the obstacles were reflagged, walked by the competitors and driven again. Ribbons were awarded and competitors were on their way home by 3:00, well ahead of the forecast blizzard.

Many of the horses and ponies were remarkably fit as a result of competing in the large number of sleigh rallies held this year in New England. Between the sleigh rallies and arena driving trials, drivers have not had to travel to warmer regions or mark off the days until spring to do some competing.

Jenny Kimberly, in her first driving competition, got off to a good start with her 15 year old Arabian she has owned since he was 9 months old. Clyde is primarily a distance driving horse. Jenny says Robin Groves, who she credits with her success, talked her into trying Arena Driving. She says she looks forward to competing in more of these types of events.
Winning the Preliminary Division, Keith Angstadt out distanced the field of 13 by 18 penalty points. Driving his Morgan mare PSF Magic Miss, Keith is preparing for his first season competing at the Advanced Level.