True or false: only recognized horse trials can be registered with the USEA and US Equestrian (formerly USEF)? The correct answer is false! The USEA allows eventing organizers to register eventing tests with the USEA when they do not want to run a full USEA Recognized Horse Trial. A number of positive benefits come with this registration and these tests are excellent opportunities to introduce new riders and horses to the sport.
A USEA eventing test consists of one or more (or a hybrid of) dressage, cross-country, and jumping phases which has been registered with the USEA. Tests are designed to introduce the discipline of eventing and to prepare competitors and horses for USEA recognized horse trials. They provide experience for participants within an enjoyable and educational day of competition.
By registering a test with the USEA, the organizer and/or property will be covered for that time period under the USEA’s insurance policy. In addition, the USEA will provide publicity for the eventing test by including it in the weekly eNewsletter, on the website calendar listing, and posting any press releases provided by the organizer. The cost to register a test with the USEA is $100 for a single day of activities and $150 for multiple days. This is an affordable option to get your test insured and promoted!
A test can be held as a standalone event, the day before or after a recognized horse trials, or during the competition. The only exceptions are the Beginner Novice Three-Day and Novice Three-Day.
If the test is held in conjunction with a USEA recognized horse trials, it will be listed in both the print and online USEA Omnibus. If the test is held as a standalone event, it will be listed on the USEA website under educational activities. However, organizers may choose to have their test included in the Omnibus by purchasing a listing.
“It is a great benefit to have eventing tests registered with the USEA,” said Wendy Wergeles, organizer of The Event Derby® , who has registered her activity with the USEA for many years. “The listing gets published on the USEA website (and in the hard copy of the Omnibus if you choose), so it is seen by everyone. By registering with the USEA, the insurance is included – we all hate it, but we all need it! There is easy access to any paperwork, dressage tests, etc. you may need, and along with the paperwork comes the awesome support from the USEA staff. Also, the ability to also host a Young Event Horse or Future Event Horse class along with your test is a big plus.”
Tests do not have to follow the USEF Rules for Eventing, but they should conform to rules concerning safety, cruelty, and competition. Schooling and warm-up areas should be supervised.
If a rider or horse is not ready for all three phases of a USEA recognized horse trial division, then a test is a good choice to introduce, educate, and provide enjoyment. Tests can also be more affordable and don’t always require USEA membership. They are great for first time riders who want to “try” out the sport of eventing in a relaxed and educational environment.
While the following list includes the most common eventing tests, the USEA encourages organizers to be creative and develop tests of their own that will help to educate and provide enjoyment for eventers. Think of a really creative test idea? Please be sure to share it with the USEA!
To register your eventing test download the Organizers’ Application for Eventing Tests. Have questions or need more information on registering your activity as an eventing test? Contact Jennifer Hardwick at [email protected] or (703) 779-0440 ext. 3003.
For a list of upcoming eventing tests, visit the Educational Activities page on the USEA website.
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