United States Eventing Association

Four Ways to Prep for Your 2024 Eventing Season

The following is provided through a partnership between STRIDER and the USEA. As part of our commitment to diversity, enabling access, and building capacity throughout the industry we are pleased to provide this content to benefit the sport of eventing.

With the holiday spirit in full swing and the New Year just around the corner, it’s time to get ready for the 2024 eventing season. From paperwork to packing, there’s quite a bit to do before you’re ready to get out there and enjoy the season with your horse. Check out these tips from the team at STRIDER, and get your 2024 season kicked off in the most organized way possible.

Renew Your Membership(s)

USEA memberships and horse registrations are required at all levels for participation in USEA-recognized events. Avoid the pre-closing date scramble and get those details in order now. More information can be found here regarding USEA membership options and benefits.

If you are competing at Modified, Preliminary, Intermediate, or Advanced you will also need to renew your USEF membership and complete SafeSport training. While online renewals are convenient, get ahead of the game and take care of these to-do list items now, before you factor in the added stress of getting ready for an outing.

Get Paperwork in Order

Create a file on your desktop with up-to-date details so you have everything ready to go when it comes time to submit entries. Yes, many entry platforms such as STRIDER, Event Entries, or XEntry will allow you to save horse & rider details/ documents, but it’s handy to have all of these items in one place.

Save your horse’s coggins, proof of Flu/Rhino vaccination history, and a document with membership number information in your desktop file so you can have easy access to all of it. Better yet, email yourself that file, or upload to Google Drive or Dropbox so you always have easy access.

Create a Calendar

Create your calendar for the coming months. Not only is this a great way to hold yourself accountable to the goals you’ve set, it also gives you an opportunity to set yourself and your horse up for successful outings.

Be sure to add in schooling shows, clinics, and other fun outings as you build your year. Keep an eye on the USEA calendar, STRIDER, and check your local Area website for upcoming opportunities. When creating your calendar, add in opening/closing dates for the activities you want to attend. Not only will this keep your organizers happy, but you won’t feel like anything has snuck up on you!

Show Kit Inventory

Take an hour to go through your horse show/ travel kit. Make a list and check it twice of items that need to be replenished or replaced. With gifting season coming, this is a great opportunity to drop some hints to your loved ones that you need a new cross-country pad, stud kit, braiding bands, or new set of brushes.

There’s nothing worse than arriving at the horse show only to discover you’re missing the one thing you wish you had with you!

While some of these items may seem a bit tedious, remember that the 2024 version of you will be thankful you took the time to get a jump on the season.

Happy Riding!

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