If you know a young rider living in or around Virginia who likes the challenge of steeplechasing and hunt races and is also somewhat of a thrill-seeker on horseback they may be intrigued by the Junior Field Master Chase offered at the International Gold Cup Oct. 20 at Great Meadow in The Plains, Va.
A long-standing Virginia tradition, the Junior Field Master Chase gives young riders a chance to demonstrate their skills before large race crowds, an experience especially important to riders who may be planning to make race riding a career. The chase, which at one time was strictly a flat race, has been modified to include three-foot obstacles and the name of the race has been changed to reflect this.
The Chase is open to junior riders under 18 on ponies or horses that at least 5 years old and that have experience with any foxhunting, beagle pack or pony club. Riders are to follow the Field Master at a hunting pace over a flagged course not to exceed two miles and no less than one-and-a-half miles, with obstacles up to three feet in height. At a designated place, the Field Master will release the field to race for the finish.
Trophies will be presented to riders in divisions for small/large ponies and junior horses.
There will be a $500 award for the winning Hunt Club, Beagle Club or Pony Club.
For additional visit the web site at www.vagoldcup.com.