Riding clinics to be offered throughout the day; all community members invited to join the festivities
New Castle, DE – On Saturday, May 4, members of the equestrian community and the general public are invited to participate in the official grand opening of the redesigned Carousel Park Equestrian Cross Country Course. A ribbon cutting ceremony will take place at noon and Olympic medalist Phillip Dutton will lead a series of jump clinics for riders throughout the day. Local food vendors will be on-site and riders can shop for equestrian clothing, tack and services.
“The opening of our world-class cross country course is the perfect way to celebrate the re-establishment of Carousel Park as a premier regional equestrian facility,” County Executive Meyer said. “Please join us on May 4 to enjoy the riding and explore the many family-friendly recreation amenities at this popular New Castle County park.”
The redesigned course was created in partnership with noted designer Jeff Kibbie and jump builders Eric Bull and Frank Stafford and offers brand new jumps including natural logs, painted jumps, dog houses, chevrons, benches, and other challenges placed throughout 27 acres on the western edge of the park. Construction was completed in the fall of 2018.
The cross country course layout includes one dedicated gallop field course designed to condition horses. Rolling hills, coupled with uncomplicated natural jumps, build endurance. Its schooling jump course includes more advanced jumps including wedges, benches, ditches, and a water hazard. The eclectic mix of schooling jumps are appropriate for horse and rider teams from elementary to training level.
The schooling jump course will be open to all riders on May 4 immediately after the noon ribbon cutting ceremony. Riders wishing to use the cross country course or to register for one of 25 clinic slots on May 4 should call (302) 995-7670. Clinic slots are $150 for 90 minutes. There are also opportunities to audit the clinics for a reduced fee of $30 for 90 minutes. Visit www.nccde.org/carousel for more information.
All members of the public are welcome to observe the equestrian activities from the sidelines of the cross country course throughout the day as riders navigate the variety of colorful and challenging jumps. All cross country riders will receive a free gift.
Please note: Attendees should arrive for the May 4 festivities via the parking lot at 3100 Skyline Drive, which is located adjacent to the cross country course. Attendees should not use the main park entrance at Route 7/Limestone Road which is not easily accessible to the cross country course.
About Carousel Park & Equestrian Center:
Home of the New Castle County Police Mounted Patrol Unit, Carousel Park and Equestrian Center is a 215 acre oasis offering open space, rolling meadows, an off leash bark park, two fishing ponds, miles of walking trails and more. The Park features a creative play experience for children at its playground with teepees, play horses and climbing logs. Or, visitors of all ages can just bring a picnic lunch and explore its scenic vistas of beautiful rolling hills. Carousel Park is open daily from dawn to dusk.
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Contact: Jason Miller, Director of Communications, 302-545-1462