United States Eventing Association

Great Meadow International Sends First Round of Invitations

The Great Meadow International presented by Adequan® has extended invitations world wide for nations to compete at Great Meadow this July when it hosts the first FEI Eventing Nations' Cup™ ever held outside Europe.

Top riders will bring world-class horses and showcase their hard work and preparation at the picturesque Great Meadow in The Plains, Virginia, July 9-10. The event will be the final outing for the Land Rover U.S. Eventing Team prior to the 2016 summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

"Our partnership with the FEI and role in the 2016 Nations Cup™ Eventing series is a wonderful opportunity to enhance the Great Meadow Foundation's efforts in supporting and promoting the sport of Eventing at home and abroad," said Robert. L Banner Jr., President of the Great Meadow Foundation. "We are so honored and excited to be hosting the first Eventing Nations' Cup ever held outside Europe and we invite all Eventing fans to make their plans now to come join us for what is sure to be a memorable weekend!"

The Great Meadow International presented by Adequan® has invited all nations to send teams to compete against the team from the United States. Final entries from the U.S. and the invited countries have not been confirmed as the closing date for entries is June 21, 2016. Great Meadow, steeped in U.S. Eventing tradition, was host to the Land Rover U.S. Eventing Team in its final preparation trial prior to the 2014 FEI World Equestrian Games and the 2015 Pan American Games.

The event opens Friday, July 8, to a "Free on Friday" promotion for all to inspect the new $1M arena being constructed for this competition. At midday, the organizers will open the Meadow Market Trade Show for shopping, host an opening ceremony, and end the day with a welcome party. A leading clinician has been invited to lead a clinic that day, which is also free for all spectators. The cross-country course will be open for a walk led by Jimmy Wofford.

Dressage begins early Saturday morning, July 9th. Later that afternoon, the show jumping phase begins. The cross country phase begins on Sunday morning with a closing ceremony at midday. While admission is "Free On Friday," the competition asks $30 per carload beginning Saturday, July 9th. The weekend pass is $50 per car. Tickets can be purchased online at www.greatmeadowinvitational.com.