Laurels co-organizers Jamie O’Rourke and Ron Palmer have made it their mission to offer competitors the closest thing to a World Championship venue this side of the Atlantic. "We feel it’s important to give competitors that are vying for World Championship teams the same type of atmosphere they will encounter abroad."

Since moving to West Grove in 2002, The Laurels at Landope has become the most prestigious combined driving event in the United States. It occupies 44-acres of open farmland that has been developed into a site specifically for combined driving. The central show grounds are self-contained with two competition arenas, an extremely popular trade fair and exhibition area that include two restaurants and the Patron Tent. The marathon hazards, the highlight of the event, surround the show grounds and are easily accessed by competitors and are visible to spectators from all central locations.

In 2004, O’Rourke and Palmer divided the center piece water hazard into two distinct elements and added a new challenge for advanced drivers, ‘the ramp’. Designed to replicate one that is used in international competition, the ramp appears to be steep and formidable, with a sharp drop into and out of the water. Like all well-designed hazards, the ramp is one of many route options available to drivers but it is placed to be the shortest and fastest.

While many advanced drivers were leery of the new element, Lisa Singer of Chadds Ford, PA, winner of the 2004 USEF National Pairs Championships at The Laurels, was unfazed. "It was easy," she said. "My horses never hesitated for a minute."

In 2006, the ramp was further refined to become a second, shorter bridge at the end of which was a sharp turn to the water and the first gate. Many competitors chose that route but others opted for a longer way around. Timers attested to the fact that the bridge was the fastest way but not by much. Also in 2006 was the addition of a new hazard, the Trellis that not only looked spectacular, it quickly became a favorite for drivers who loved its options.

Over 100 competitors from all over the U.S. and as far away as Great Britain and New Zealand, converge on the site every year. "We’ve had more states and countries represented than we had ever had before," said O’Rourke. "We only wish we could take more entries."

Visitors to the event are invited to hear the Barbone Street Jazz Band featuring the young violinist, Jonathan Russell. At the main show grounds, they will browse an even bigger and better trade fair with vendors offering country and sporting apparel, jewelry, antiques and collectibles, carriages and carriage accessories and artwork. Once again, the event plans exhibitions to appeal to every age group.

For more information contact Mrs. James F. O’Rourke, 610-486-0710 or email: laurelslandhope@aol.com