Jul 16, 2024

Bates Returns as the Official Saddle of the USEA

By Sam Johnston - USEA Staff

The United States Eventing Association, Inc. (USEA) is thrilled to announce Bates Saddles has returned as the “Official Saddle of the USEA,” as well as a “Platinum Sponsor of the USEA American Eventing Championships” (and Preliminary division sponsor), “Silver Sponsor of the USEA Annual Meeting & Convention,” “Contributing Sponsor of the Young Event Horse Series,” “Contributing Sponsor of the USEA Intercollegiate Eventing Team Championships,” “Contributing Sponsor of the USEA Classic Series,” “Title Sponsor of the USEA Lady Rider of the Year,” and “Title Sponsor of USEA Mare of the Year Leaderboard.”

"As we celebrate our 90th year, Bates Saddles is thrilled to continue our partnership with the USEA American Eventing Championships. We're honored to support riders at every level, from Starter to Advanced as they showcase their skills at this prestigious event. Our team looks forward to cheering on competitors and meeting eventing enthusiasts at our booth. We're proud to equip many riders with our high-performance saddles and to contribute over 150 prize packs to the event annually. The AEC truly embodies the spirit of eventing, and we're excited to play a part in recognizing the achievements of these dedicated athletes and their horses,” said Erin Kenworthy, Bates Head of Marketing and Technology.

Bates Saddles, a long-standing Australian saddle and tack manufacturer, was founded in 1934 in Perth, Western Australia. They have since grown into a global brand and can be found in 36 countries worldwide. Specializing in innovative saddles for both the horse and rider, Bates saddles are known for their adjustability, durability, and comfort.

“We at the USEA are very pleased Bates has returned for another five years as our Official Saddle,” said USEA CEO Rob Burk. “Bates has been a popular brand in eventing for many years, and that is a testament to their quality and innovation. Many of our members ride in Bates saddles, and I encourage anyone to try riding in a Bates. We have been fortunate to work with them for the last five years and are thankful for their continued support for these next five years!”

Bates makes both dressage, jump, and all-purpose saddles, as well as Australian stock saddles. They also have an extensive collection of tack and accessories for the horse and rider. Endorsed by many top event riders, Bates saddles are the essence of cutting-edge technology with classic style. Visit their website to learn more: http://batessaddles.us

About the United States Eventing Association

The USEA is a non-profit 501(c)(3) educational organization committed to providing eventing enthusiasts with a competitive level suited to their individual skills. By assisting and educating competitors, event organizers, and officials; maintaining responsible safety standards; and registering qualified competitions and clinics, the USEA offers a strong and continuous training opportunity for an ever-expanding field of world-class competitors. Just as importantly, the USEA provides a means for all riders, regardless of age or ability, to experience the thrill of eventing. To learn more, visit www.useventing.com.

Dec 13, 2024 Grants

Eventing Successes Celebrated at 2024 USEA Year-End Awards Banquet

United States Eventing Association (USEA) members from all over the country gathered on Friday afternoon for the 2024 USEA Annual Meeting & Convention Year End Awards Ceremony. The afternoon’s ceremony was led by Master of Ceremonies Jim Wolf and recognized riders, horses, and game-changers in the sport of eventing with multiple awards and grants.

Dec 13, 2024 Eventing News

USEF Announces Allocation of 2025-2027 USEF/USEA Developing Horse National Championships

The U.S. Equestrian Federation has announced the host location of the 2025-27 USEF/USEA Developing Horse National Championship. They will take place at the Morven Park International & Fall Horse Trials in Leesburg, Virginia, from Oct, 9-12, 2025. The USEF/USEA Developing Horse National Championship will continue to feature two divisions—the first for 6-year-old horses competing at the CCI2*-S level, and the second for 7-year-old horses competing at the CCI3*-S level.

Dec 12, 2024 Convention

Rider Biomechanics: The Ultimate Balancing Act that Plays a Critical Role in Rider Safety

As riders, we spend a lot of time focusing on the strengthening and fitness programs of our horses, but as Amy Gibbs, MPT, pointed out on Thursday afternoon at the 2024 USEA Annual Meeting & Convention, setting aside time to focus on our own balance and strength is imperative, not only in helping us meet our goals as riders but also in ensuring we are riding in a safe and secure manner.

Dec 11, 2024 Convention

Fast Facts: 2024 USEA Annual Meeting & Convention

Say hello to Seattle, USEA members! The 2024 USEA Annual Meeting & Convention gets underway tomorrow and features four full days of educational seminars, committee meetings, and social gatherings all surrounding the sport of eventing! This year’s Convention takes place in Seattle, Washington, at The Westin Seattle from Dec. 12-15. Check out all of the items on this year's agenda that you won't want to miss!

Official Corporate Sponsors of the USEA

Official Joint Therapy Treatment of the USEA

Official Feed of the USEA

Official Saddle of the USEA

Official Equine Insurance of the USEA

Official Forage of the USEA

Official Supplement Feeding System of the USEA

Official Competition & Training Apparel of the USEA

Official Horse Boot of the USEA

Official Shockwave of the USEA

Official Horse Wear of the USEA