Members of the United States Olympic Equestrian team, including Boyd Martin and Phillip Dutton of Chester County, will participate in the fifth annual three-day Plantation Field International Horse Trials and Country Fair in East Marlborough Township.

“We are excited to have the Olympic team members at Plantation Field. Thousands of people from this area have been watching them compete in London and now they can see them in person at Plantation Field,” said Katie Walker of Plantation Field’s executive committee.

The three days of Eventing competition, known as the triathlon of the horse world, will take place at picturesque Plantation Field, once part of the King Ranch. On Friday, Sept. 21, the Dressage event will be held and admission is free. The parking fee for the Saturday, September 22 cross country event and Sunday, September 23 show jumping event will be $20. The fee includes admission to the grounds for everyone in the car and a program.

Plantation Field is located at 387 Green Valley Road, Unionville. Competition each day will take place from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. with main events beginning late morning each day. The shops and country fair operation begins at 9 a.m. Proceeds benefit the Cheshire Land Preservation Fund and The Barn at Spring Brook Farm. For more information see www.plantationfieldhorsetrials.com.

Also, every car though the gate on Saturday or Sunday will be entered in a raffle to win a lesson from a member of the 2012 Olympic team.

“Plantation Field is important for the riders because the Eventing competition results are used to qualify for national and international championships,” said Plantation Field’s Amy Ruth Borun.  “We are expecting more than 200 riders from Canada, the Midwest and East Coast to compete during the three days. Plantation Field is one of a few three-star competitions along the eastern seaboard. Some of the best riders and horses will be here.”

Eventing is comprised of three varied and challenging phases of competition, including dressage, cross-country jumping and show jumping. Dressage consists of an exact sequence of movements ridden in an enclosed area. Judging is based on balance, rhythm, suppleness and obedience of the horse and harmony with the rider. Cross Country includes jumping of fences over a three-mile course and requires both horse and rider to be in excellent physical condition. Show jumping tests the technical jumping skills of the horse and rider.

“Plantation Field is the perfect setting for the Eventing competition,” Walker said. “Chester County is a Mecca for all types of equestrian pursuits. Championship horses have been bred and trained in the county and some of the top riders in all disciplines of riding and jumping have called Chester County home.

“The county is also known for its history and preservation of open space. One of our beneficiaries is the Cheshire Land Preservation Fund. The Fund helps preserve our pristine open space and farmland. Our other wonderful local charity is the Barn at Spring Brook Farm. The Barn provides free animal-assisted activities for children with disabilities.”

Besides the Eventing competition and enjoying the spectacular view, spectators will be treated to a country fair. “This is a family-friendly event,” Borun said. “There will be activities for children, food and shops with equestrian themes.  A parade of hounds will take place on Sunday and on the same day we’ll have a jousting exhibition. Plantation Field is the perfect venue to spend time with the family.”

New for 2012 is a tailgating competition. “Tailgating is a wonderful tradition,” Walker said. “It’s part of the festive atmosphere. We are going to enlist a guest judge and prizes will be awarded. Space is limited, so those interested should contact us. We’re also having a wine tasting event in the vendor space.”

Walker added, “We’re expecting large crowds this year. Plantation Field International Horse Trials provides sponsors with a unique opportunity to showcase businesses. We are still accepting sponsors, program advertisers and vendors. Those interested should visit www.plantationfieldhorsetrials.com.”

Photo: Boyd Martin and Otis Barbotiere