United States Eventing Association

If you haven’t made it up to Wayne, Illinois to see the Bit of Britain/USEA American Eventing Championships at the picturesque Lamplight Equestrian Center yet, this year may be your last chance!

The AEC venue changes every three years to keep the competition fresh and accessible to everyone and 2009 will be the event’s final year at Lamplight.

The past two years at the Lamplight Equestrian Center have provided excitement, world-class competition and amenities, top-notch attractions, and fabulous competitors’ parties. This year will be no exception. The 2009 AEC will offer more coverage, social activities, prizes, and opportunities than ever in a true national championship atmosphere.

"The USEA is delighted to be returning to Lamplight for what promises to be the best American Eventing Championships ever," said USEA President Kevin Baumgardner. "Over the past two years, Tom Moxley, Steve Cooper, and the entire Lamplight team have taken the AEC to a new level and extended a warm welcome to competitors from many states as well as Canada and Mexico. I encourage all competitors to get in on the excitement and make the 2009 American Eventing Championhips at the Lamplight Equestrian Center a personal goal for this season."

Whether you’re a competitor, spectator, friend, or family there are tons of attractions to take in. While you’re in the Chicago area soaking up the competition, be sure to sample the delights of the city and surrounding suburbs.

Located only an hour from Lamplight Equestrian Center, Navy Pier is one of Chicago’s oldest landmarks. Navy Pier is home to a variety of entertainment, shopping, and dining attractions. There is something for the entire family to enjoy including the Chicago Children’s Museum, IMAX Theater, and Crystal Gardens.

You can also take a ride on the 150-foot-high Ferris wheel, play a round of miniature golf, or take a dinner cruise while viewing nighttime fireworks.

To cool off for a day, head over to the Art Institute of Chicago. The Art Institute has one of the world’s greatest collections of art with a large variety of permanent exhibits. Take advantage of free admission on Thursday evenings from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.

A visit to Chicago would not be complete without a stop at the Sears Tower. Ride the elevator up to the 103^rd floor to enjoy the view from the Skydeck. On a clear day, you can see up to 50 miles. Check up on your horse or scope out the competition at Lamplight from a bird’s eye view!

Also be sure to stop by Chicago’s Magnificent Mile where 460 stores, 275 restaurants, 51 hotels and a variety of sightseeing and entertainment attractions await. Be prepared to stretch your budget!

Animal lovers must see one of Chicago’s two world-famous zoos. Lincoln Park Zoo was established in 1868 making it one of the country’s oldest. Brookfield Zoo, located in Brookfield, Illinois, just west of Chicago, first opened in 1934 and became world famous for its use of natural barriers, such as moats, rather than cages. Brookfield Zoo also featured the first Giant Panda exhibit in the United States.

Don’t miss out on the 2009 Bit of Britain USEA AEC at the Lamplight Equestrian Center and the extraordinary attractions of the Chicago area. There is truly something for everyone!