Caroline Powell and Greenacres Special Cavalier, pictured at Maryland 5 Star in 2024. New organisers are hoping to revive the five-star class for 2027.
Yesterday (21 April), Select Event Group announced that it has “assumed the role of lead organiser”. It has submitted its application to run the CCI3*-L and young event horse classes in October 2026, and it is “preparing its application to organise and put on the 2027 Maryland 5 Star Event”.
“Together, these steps are evidence of a deliberate approach: ensuring a strong, well-executed three-star this fall while building the operational, financial and community foundation necessary for the five-star’s return next year,” said a Select Event Group spokesperson.
The spokesperson added: “As part of its long-term vision, Select is embracing the opportunity to reimagine the Maryland five-star course – honoring its reputation as one of the sport’s most demanding tests while ensuring it remains a destination that inspires confidence to compete at the highest level.
“Working with legendary course-designer Pierre Le Goupil, Select aims to deliver a course that is uncompromising in quality, compelling in design and capable of drawing world-class participation from across the globe.”
Select Event Group president Alex Corgan said the company is “eager to build on the momentum created over the past several years and to thoughtfully broaden what this event can be”.
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He added that the goal is to expand the breadth of supporters and those involved “from long-time equestrian fans to new community partners” and to create “more opportunities for people to engage, contribute and feel invested in the event’s success”.
“By bringing together a strong team and welcoming all those willing to help make this a success, we believe that we can deliver at Fair Hill an experience that is both world-class in sport and deeply rooted in community,” said Mr Corgan.
The new organisers mentioned plans to develop the event into a “signature weekend” to welcome a wider audience, including family-friendly activities, local hospitality and complementary entertainment.
They have also shared their intention to work closely with the event’s host region Cecil County.
“Cecil County is pleased to see the three-star event continue this year, ensuring the tradition of world-class eventing at Fair Hill remains strong,” said Cecil County executive Adam Streight.
“We look forward to working with Select Event Group, who understand the importance of including Cecil countians and local businesses, along with our partners, to deliver a successful 2026 competition and welcome the return of the Maryland 5 Star in 2027.”
The statement from the organisers said that it is working with US Equestrian, US Eventing, the Fair Hill Foundation, Fair Hill International, the MD Department of Natural Resources, Cecil County and the State of Maryland, among others.
Lucy is an experienced news journalist, reporter and presenter. Since joining the Horse & Hound team in 2015, Lucy has reported from major global sporting events including the Tokyo Paralympic Games and multiple European Championships, as well as Badminton, Burghley and London, to name a few. She has covered current affairs and sports news across the full spectrum of equestrian disciplines and racing, as well as human and equine welfare, industry news and court cases.
