Walnut Hill Farm Driving Competition Draws to a Close

After 46 years, the Walnut Driving Competition has announced that 2017 was the last year for this iconic annual event.

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."