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Norfolk Hunt Derby Cross
After receiving rave reviews for the past two years, Monday, May 27, 2013 marks the the third annual Norfolk Hunt Club Derby Cross, a schooling show, which will take place on the lower field at the Steeplechase Course (240 North Street, Medfield, MA). The event is designed to showcase the speed and accuracy of show jumping, combined with the bravery and endurance of cross-country, in a spectator-friendly atmosphere.
The Norfolk Hunt Derby Cross courses are designed by USEA technical delegate Jim Gornall, of Uxbridge, MA and accommodate riders of varying levels. Courses run on natural terrain and incorporate existing foxhunting fences, including coops, aikens, brush, stonewalls, post and rails, banks, logs, and ditches, with stadium fences, portable cross-country obstacles and combinations (only at the novice level) typically encountered by eventers in the cross-country phase of a horse trial. Divisions include Elementary (up to 2'), Beginner Novice (up to 2'7") and Novice (up to 2'11"). The number of elements will vary in each division. Each division will have a junior class. Always a favorite, classes for teams of two or three horses/riders are also included. To avoid wait times, riders will not be scheduled according to division. All three courses will be pre-set, affording riders of different levels to compete throughout the day. Winning scores will be posted at the end of the day, and shortly thereafter, on the Norfolk Hunt website. Ribbons will be distributed at the end of the day. Courses will be measured and an optimal time for completion will be posted by 9:00 a.m. on the morning of the event. Competitors will be scored based on clearing the various fences/obstacles, with penalty points assigned for refusals and rails. In the case of a tie, the horse/rider combination closest to the optimal time will win. 
Erica Foley, a Norfolk Hunt Club member and eventer, is chairing the Derby Cross and has planned a late morning start (10:00 a.m.) and a relaxed atmosphere to round out the makings for a great day. "The Norfolk Hunt Derby Cross is designed to be a fun, low-key, confidence-building event," said Erica.
Derby Cross competitors are required to wear collared polo shirts, breeches, boots and ASTM/SEI approved safety helmets. Cross-country safety vests are strongly recommended. Teams are encouraged to coordinate clothing and turnout to gain additional points. For more information, contact: Erica Foley, (508) 380-5181, or ehnf@msn.com. |