Rachel Shoemaker.

The Carriage Pleasure Drive, or Carriage Marathon as many may call it, is one of the most anticipated events during the Devon Horse Show. The much anticipated event took place on Sunday, May 24 from 12-2 p.m. This year the carriages met on the Devon Grounds and proceeded on a route through residential neighborhoods in Devon. They were judged for the condition of the horses and ponies, the soundness of the wind and limb and complete turnout. The term ‘complete turnout’ is a special phrase used to evaluate the overall picture of the horses, carriage, harness and attendants. There are specific guidelines as to how the attendants must dress. They are also expected to sit erect, and the women should have a blanket over their legs. The route itself cannot take any longer than 40 minutes to finish.

Once they depart the Dixon Oval, the single, pair and four-in-hand carriages and coaches began their progress to Leopard Lakes, passing groups, small and large, who waved and cheered them on. Several neighborhoods made it quite an event with sumptuous spreads laid out under tents on the lawn. Upon their return to the Devon, they carriages again entered the Dixon Oval for a second round of judging where a large crowd had assembled and loudly cheered for their favorites. Finally, the ribbons were awarded for best turnout in each class.

Exhibitors for the Carriage Pleasure Drive come as far as California, the Midwest, Florida and New England to partake in this elaborate event. Jamie O’Rourke has had an entry in the marathon since 1968. “I grew up in Long Island, New York, and I moved down here about 25 years ago. My mother’s family has been showing at the Devon Horse Show since the 1940s. My aunt’s family was among the founders in 1896. I guess you could say we’ve had some involvement for a period of time.”

The carriages are prized possessions themselves and are built anywhere from 1890 to 1910. They are in spectacular condition and have been built by the best makers in the country – Brewster and also Studabaker, who also built cars for a time. “These carriages were properly equipped with large luncheon boxes so you could serve your champagne and eat lunch along your trip. The men wear top hats, and the women are dressed elegantly. It’s a throwback to a bygone era,” said O’Rourke.

Laurie Wightman for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

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