What is the sport of Combined Driving?
It is very much like the ridden sport of Eventing, but with a carriage behind the horse!
There are 3 separate phases, and is completed over 2 days of competition. Each phase tests the training and ability of both horse and driver (the Whip) in different ways.
The first day is Dressage and Cones. Dressage tests balance, flexibility, and submission of the horse as well as the driver's memory of the test and skills in executing it. "Cones" tests the concentration and self control of both horse and driver. Cones calls for precision driving between 20 sets of cones laid out in an elaborate course and is designed to create pressure and excitement by not knocking into any cones, thereby accruing demerits, and separating who will win, from who will lose.
The second day is Marathon, testing the horse's endurance and stamina over distance, and both horse and driver's ability to use all their skills driving through hazards (obstacles) encountered throughout course.
Plum Creek Carriage Society Formed!
The Plum Creek Carriage Society has officially been created. Membership will include access to Plum Creek at discounted prices. The second Saturday of every month will be reserved for driving work days and play days for members and guests. Members will be charged $10 or your sweat equity to drive on the second Saturday of each month. Non-members - $15.
Annual Dues will be $35 individual, $50 family, and due on January 1 of each calendar year.
Plum Creek is getting ready for the 2009-2010 show season. Chuck Leshikar called a meeting of volunteers to discuss the expansion of the Plum Creek Carriage and Shooting Society organization. The following was just a few of the ideas that were finalized. A work day on the 2nd Saturday of each month is now open to anyone that wishes to help out. The idea is that you work getting the course ready for half a day and then play throughout the extensive trails for the rest of the day. (Just think of driving across the newly open trails and all around an old west town). For those people who come from far away, Chuck has also said that if you work, you get free RV site and stalls for the weekend (first come, first served).
Plum Creek already has a list of one day events:
Dec 12th is the Day of Cones – There will be a least 3 cones courses set up and you go from one course, to the next, to the next. Again volunteers from the competitors will let you watch and cheer your friends to do their best.
Feb 13th is the Day of Dressage – There is will a selection of dressage tests that will be available and the entries can practice with a green horse. Take the challenge of that upper level test you have always wants to try or just have an easy day of it.
All of these practice drives lead to the PLUM CREEK CDE which will be on April 17 and 18, 2010. Mark your calendar and plan to come to all of them. All of the information is on the PCCSS web site or give me a call at 817-614-2986.
Paula Long
Plum Creek CDE Sponsorships Form
