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Horses from across North America travel to Birds Hill Park for this internationally accredited carriage driving competition known better to competitors and driving society members as the CDE (Combined Driving Event) every July.

Single horses, pairs, and four-in-hands (four horse teams) of miniature, pony, and horses of all breeds compete with drivers of all ages.

The following information is from the 2010 event. It will give you a good idea of what you can expect.

Saturday 10:00am to 3:30pm

Horses, drivers and carriages are formally attired and must perform a memorized routine of patterns and gait transitions to demonstrate their horse's technical ability and willingness in an event called Dressage. Next, drivers test their precision driving skills by navigating a timed, set course of orange cones topped with a white ball which they must not knock down as they pass between the cones. Spectators will be on the edge of their seats to see whether the ball drops after the carriage is through.

Location: Manitoba Horse Council Equestrian Facility located behind Birds Hill Park Ranch (riding stable) in Birds Hill Park. This is marked as Equine Center with a big red dot on the detailed map of the site you can view or download here.

Modern washrooms, concession, some bleachers (you may want to bring lawn chairs), and an informative announcer on hand to explain to spectators what they're watching.

Sunday 10:30am to 3:30pm

Thrills and splashes as drivers cover a marathon course that includes one of the only four enormous, covered competition bridges in North America and the excitement of seeing teams as they splash their way in and out of the water obstacle.

The marathon obstacles (bridge, water, and more) test the driver's strategic ability to select the quickest route through them, and the horse's ability to be fast and agile through tight turns that have spectators holding their breath.

The course is extensive. Though the actual start time is around 10:00am, for best viewing at the bridge site, plan to be there by about 10:30 - 11:00am.

Location: Birds Hill Park - Along North Drive between Festival Drive (which starts at the East Gate entrance) and Nimowin Road. A large covered bridge and water are visible from the road. Parking is self-evident. Portable washrooms, some bleachers (you may want to bring lawn chairs), limited concession, and informative announcer to explain the action to spectators.

ADMISSION IS FREE FOR SPECTATORS