The Chilworth Hill Equine Sports Society (CHESS) was formed in January 2004. The Society is affiliated to the British Horse Driving Trials Association (BHDTA) and has links, historical and active, with Surrey and South of the Thames area of the British Driving Society (BDS). With the inclusion of events catering for riders CHESS will form a relaxed association with the West Surrey Riding Club.

John and Mary Crittall very kindly allow CHESS to use their land for various events. Being a working farm the events have to be staged on dates arranged around the farming calendar. Especially the harvesting of the silage crop and the restrictions imposed under the 'set-a-side' rules.

There are two venues used by CHESS, Sample Oak Farm just off the the A248 at Chilworth itself and, the Pavilion Field or 'Round-a-bout' at Blackheath. In the early part of the season events start at Sample Oak Farm with the entrants making their way, as part of the course, to the Pavilion Field. A Track is opened up so that those taking part can return to the farm via a different route.

The season kicks off with the 'Fit or Fat' ride. This is a non-competitive event and gives owners an opportunity to gauge the fitness of their horses and drivers, grooms and riders to get back into the swing of their sport. There is a harness/tack and vehicle check before entrants move off with two intermediate and a final vet check. Entrants carry a card on which the vets record their comments. The record cards are retained by the owners after the event.

At all of the events, except the drive in June, John and Mary make food and hot drinks available to purchase on the day. Overnight stays can be made subject to prior arrangement but, with the exception of water, all campers must be self sufficient.

A new dressage arena will be laid out for 2006 located behind the fir trees (Brigadier's Folly) in the Hill Field.

Entries for the events are generally accepted up to the Monday prior to the event date. If there are insufficient numbers of entrants the event will not go ahead.

Helpers always welcomed. Please let us know if you would like to come along and enjoy taking part to help make everyone's day entertaining and worthwhile. You get a free lunch, get to mix with lovely people and see the most amazing horses and ponies in action.