United States Eventing Association

In response to the recent conversations circulating throughout the eventing world regarding safety, responsibility and proper preparation for the cross country phase, Emily Beshear, in partnership with two of her sponsors: CFC Farm and Home Center and Foxden Equine, decided to offer a series of free course walks throughout the 2008 season. These course walks will be open to all- riders, parents and the general public. Riders, please feel free to join Emily as a supplement to your regular coach's walks, or because you find yourself competing alone for a weekend. Parents and friends... join her to learn how competitors break down the complexities of a course and turn it into a fun and exciting outing with their horses!

(Left: Emily Beshear competing at The Fork Horse Trials this spring. Joshua A. Walker photo.)

The free Course Walks will focus on safe, effective and efficient approaches to fences. In between fences participants will be encouraged to talk to Emily about their warm up strategies, preparation for the competition, stud choices, general tack questions, how to best help the horses recover after the course, etc.

Emily says, "These course walks are but a first step in making myself open and accessible to my fellow competitors." Please meet Emily at the start box at the following competitions:

• Surefire HT 6/28-29
• Maryland HT @ Loch Moy 7/19-20
• Loudoun Hunt PC HT 8/30-31
• Middleburg HT 9/27-28
• Virginia HT 11/1-2

Please e-mail ahead of time if you would like to walk to request your level, or look out at the competition for the specific courses and times. You can e-mail Emily directly at [email protected]. Also visit www.bricklandeventing.com for more information on clinics and training.