Pine Top Farm (Thomson, GA)
The week leading up to a Pine Top Horse Trials is always an “all hands on deck” affair, and with 202 entries scheduled this week, things are no different. Our course designers and builders are especially under pressure to deliver the kind of top-tier cross-country experience you’ve all grown to expect at Pine Top Farm.
Jon Wells and Tobiah Bingham refresh a Novice “Ditch”
Jon Wells, who has spent the winter at Pine Top as course builder, proudly steps into the role of course designer for the March Horse Trials. Assisting Jon is returning course builder Tobiah Bingham. You may recognize Tobiah as he’s a pretty big deal, having built well-regarded courses at shows like Land Rover Kentucky and WEG.
We asked Jon Wells if he had any thoughts to share about the course design this weekend. With a smile, he replied simply:
“No comment.”
If you know Jon—or have spent more than a minute around him—you’ll know he’s as funny as he is talented.
In case anyone was wondering if Jon Wells is the favorite uncle…the answer is yes.
As usual, competitors can expect a slightly more laid-back vibe this weekend after the intense back-to-back schedule of higher-level competition at Pine Top’s Intermediate and Advanced Horse Trials in February.
Pine Top Farm is also known for being very protective of its cross-country course, with schooling access limited to horse show volunteers only. If you’ve been hoping to school the course, this weekend will be your last opportunity to volunteer before the official schooling dates March 16–22. Melissa is still looking to fill several volunteer positions for Saturday and Sunday, and you can sign up at eventingvolunteers.com.
While Glenn Wilson has passed the reins of course building to talented builders like Jon and Tobiah after decades of personally building Pine Top’s cross-country jumps by hand, he’s still very much involved in the day-to-day operations. You can often spot Glenn making the rounds on one of his vintage tractors. Just this Tuesday morning we caught him out prepping the dressage rings.
How do you know a horse is finished with his food?