Counting Strides to Rolex Kentucky 2012
Chomping at the Bit for Rolex | Image by Cheval Photos
As the time nears to head to the start box for this year’s Rolex Kentucky Three Day Event, we’re all chomping at the bit in anticipation. While it’s truly the thrill of a lifetime to head off and enjoy Rolex up close and in person, hosting an at-home viewing party is a fun alternative! Whether it’s a party for two or a whole herd of guests, we’ve got coverage links, style tips, and equestrian-appropriate snacks to help you entertain your guests with true Kentucky bluegrass style.
Of course, we can’t help but wonder how the 2012 Rolex will measure up to 2011. Last year, Great Britain’s already legendary Mary King made history, claiming both the first and second place spots – the first time since the start of the Rolex CCI**** that this had ever been accomplished. While we’d love to see if she could do it again, Mary King is unfortunately not on the list of entries for this year’s Rolex. Amongst the record number of entries this year are twenty-four OTTBs who are out to prove that thoroughbreds still have what it takes to be at the top. Before you place your bets check out the skinny on these twenty-four horses to watch!
Joules Mary King Polo, $75
Want to get a better feel for this year’s field? Study up on Jimmy Wofford’s Rider Analysis on The Chronicle of the Horse to see his top picks for the competition. (Note: this year, the Chron is requiring a subscription to view this premium content online.)
If you are watching from home, here are the best ways to tune in to the action: Saturday April 28th 10:00am-12:00pm EST on Universal Sports Channel or Saturday April 28th 1:30pm-3:30pm EST on NBC Sports Network. If you miss out on April 28th, fear not… a recap will be shown on Sunday April 29th on NBC Sports Network from 2pm-3pm EST. If you’re after start to finish extensive coverage or watching from outside the States, tune in to the USEF Network or FEI TV (subscription required) on the web.
When to Watch: Tune in for the style of the jog (Wednesday), the elegance of the dressage phase (Thursday/Friday), and the challenge that comes with cross country (Saturday). Definitely don’t miss the show jumping phase (Sunday), the last phase of the competition and a key deciding factor in the 2012 US Olympic Eventing Team.
Cascade Tall Boot from Dublin
Equestrian fashionistas typically keep a close eye on the Wednesday jog. Not only is the jog one of the most important parts of Rolex, it’s also the perfect place for riders to showcase their sense of style. To get an idea of who to watch this year, catch up on last year’s jog style from Three Days, Three Ways and you’ll see just how much personality can be hiding behind beige breeches and a navy hunt coat!
As for spectator style, whether you’ll be walking the course with Jimmy Wofford in Kentucky, or tuning in from a party with barn friends, we’ve got a few suggestions to keep you looking your best. A great (and less expensive) alternative to the Dubarry Galway Boots, the Cascade Boot from Dublin will keep you in Rolex style, rain or shine. Paired with your favorite jeans, we’re calling the Joules polo from the Mary King Collection as the perfect shirt to help kick off this year’s event.
Rolex Party Ideas
Finally, now that you’ve got your Rolex look together, how about a few equestrian-inspired treats which are sure to get a nicker or two? A horse lover herself, Martha Stewart shares her delicious recipe for Carrot Cupcakes, a Rolex party must. Bring along a bottle or two of 14 Hands ‘Hot to Trot’ wine and these ‘carrot’ chocolate covered strawberries and you’ll be the champion of the party for sure!
Sam Shahbazi is a Portland, Oregon native. A full time business student at Portland State University, she also works at Gallops Saddlery and for Dappled Grey. While work and school take up most of her time, she and her boyfriend Corey enjoy spending time riding their two horses, playing with their two cats, and looking forward to their future farm together.
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