End of an Era - Walnut Hill Farm Show is over

News release this morning:

https://www.walnuthillfarm.org/

For Immediate Release

Media Contact: Amy Blum PR

February 5, 2018

Cell: (585) 880-1698, amyblumpr@gmail.com

After 46 Years, Walnut Hill Farm Driving Competition Draws to a Close

Organization announces that 2017 was last year for iconic annual event in Pittsford, NY

Pittsford, NY—In 1972, a small group of avid carriage driving enthusiasts led by Bill and Sue

Remley met at Mendon Ponds Park with 14 vehicles for a fun and competitive pleasure drive. In

the span of more than four decades, this event grew to become an internationally-recognized,

annual five-day carriage driving event in August known as Walnut Hill Farm Driving Competition.

Overseen by the Pittsford Carriage Association (PCA), Walnut Hill earned the distinction as the

largest presentation pleasure driving event in the country.

Tricia Remley-White, PCA president, competition chairperson, and daughter of Sue and the late

Bill Remley—along with the PCA’s board of directors—announced today that 2017 was the

event’s concluding year.

“We could not be more proud to have had an amazing 46 years,” said Remley-White. "During

that time, we were honored to host thousands of wonderful competitors who came to Walnut Hill

Farm for the love and sport of carriage driving. Many of them came year after year, and grew to

be our friends. But, almost a half-century is a long time for any annual event, and we wanted to

conclude on a high note, which we now have done."

"The success and longevity of our event could not have been possible without our patrons,

sponsors, officials, volunteers, boutiques, vendors, and the many local families who have been a part

of this show," added Remley-White.

"We are so grateful for the support of each and every one of

them. My special thanks goes to my family for their many years of contributions and support."

"I know my father would have been profoundly gratified by the success of Walnut Hill and the

legacy created by his vision."

I knew it was coming, just not when. Truly a top-notch show for those many years. Sad to see it end.

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Yes, the end of an era and end of a tradition for many of the pleasure driving people. I showed there in 2010 and 2012, then groomed for a friend in 2016. Lovely show, the grounds etc.

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I showed there in late 80’s/early 90’s before relocating to another state. It was an amazing show they built. Around the time I left, there was some noise about ending the show after 20 some years. Obviously that didn’t happen, lucky for all the competitors! My good memories, pictures and one pewter plate from winning an obstacle class are now even more special. Many thanks to the Remley family…

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I remember when they organized their first show. Never went to driving competition as I’d promised myself early on that, with all my competitive equine sports, my driving would be for my pleasure only. So sad to see an era come to an end. But almost 50 continuous years hosting a highly regarded international multiday driving show is an amazing accomplishment. Good of them to end on a high note.

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I loved going to watch and socialize as I knew many of the competitors. I always wanted to show there but unfortunately it never worked out :frowning: .

When Bill Remley died a few years ago it looked like the end, but they kept it going a few more years. I think the passing of Ed Young and Bob Heinhold this past year was the last straw for the show.

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I was so excited when I saw the dates for this years show earlier this year. I was sure that meant one more year to enjoy the amazing horses. So sad to read that it will not happen.

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From the Rochester paper today:

https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/2018/02/05/walnut-hill-farm-carriage-competition/306768002/

It seems the family was tired of the effort from every year and nobody else in the Pittsford Carriage Association stepped up to fill in when that was announced :cry::cry:

Someone earlier posted about the passing of two others who apparently shouldered some of the burden. But really it is more than just the show - the property is big and must be maintained, which is a 12 month a year job - well maybe 9 months up there, lol. The cross country obstacle classes were held thru the woods and other parts of the farm. This is no small undertaking over and above the planning for the show itself. The whole thing is a huge amount of work.

I’m sad to see it go, but I also get it.

That was me before and I agree with you about the maintenance. The two that passed were part of the “old guard” for driving in the area. Their passing wasn’t a surprise, but the loss of leadership will be felt throughout the area.

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The loss of this and Stuart HT earlier is just so sad to see.

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