Events in General
BES conducts a number of Rides during the year to assist with fund raising and to allow our members and guest riders to enjoy each other and the beauty of the Manassas National Battlefield Park. Ride events are always held on the last weekend of the month.
Crystal Crown Judged Pleasure Ride Competition
BES is one of the regional horse clubs that participates in the Crystal Crown competition. Started in 2002 as the "Triple Crown", this competition has expanded in the number of participating clubs and number of riders. Participants riding in all of the Crystal Crown Rides or in all but one of the Rides, are automatically considered Crystal Crown contenders and the top 10 scoring riders receive awards at an annual recognition event. The BES Crystal Crown Ride is the Spring Judged Pleasure Ride. (Please see the flyer for details.)
- Blue Bell Ride - End of March or beginning of April
The Park areas bordering Bull Run are particularly colorful during the early spring. This Ride is typically limited to 20 participants who enjoy a guided tour of the area vegetation.
- Spring Judge Pleasure Ride - Last Sunday in April - A Crystal Crown Event
This Ride typically lasts from 2 to 3 hours with the number of participants limited to 150 riders. It is typically a 10 to 14 mile Ride with 10 obstacles along the course. Points are awarded based on the ability of the horse and rider to perform each obstacle according to the instructions. All levels of horses and riders will enjoy participating in this event. Awards are given out to the overall winners and also for sub-groups based on breed and rider age groups. This, the first BES Ride of the year, is the BES Crystal Crown Ride.
- Historical Ride - Last Sunday in June
BES puts on this Ride with the cooperation of the Black Horse, 4th Virginia Cavalry. It is typically limited to 50 participants who tour the historical sites in the Park on horseback. Cavalry re-enactors lead small groups of 6 to 8 and help them better understand the historical significance of the Park and the role of the cavalry in the Civil War.
- Fall Judge Pleasure Ride - Last Sunday in September
This Ride typically lasts from 2 to 3 hours with the number of participants limited to 150 riders. It is typically a 10 to 14 mile Ride with 10 obstacles along the course. Points are awarded based on the ability of the horse and rider to perform each obstacle according to the instructions. All levels of horses and riders will enjoy participating in this event. Awards are given out to the overall winners and also for sub-groups based on breed and rider age groups. As a courtesy, an animal communicator is available so participants can chat with their horse!
- Blessing of the Horses and Fall Color Ride - Last Saturday in October
BES sponsors this annual Blessing of the Horses event in association with local clergy. It is followed by an hour-long Ride so all may enjoy the fall colors. This Ride is typically limited to 30 participants.
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