Sep 12, 2024

In Memoriam: Lefreda Williams (1937-2024)

The USEA is saddened to report that horsewoman Lefreda Williams died on Aug. 29. She was 87.

Williams was a pillar of the North Carolina equestrian community and a founding member of the Carolina Horse Park in Raeford, North Carolina.

Her legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of the sport and community. For over 50 years, Williams dedicated her life to eventing and fox hunting. Her passion for the sport led her to become a horse trials organizer in 1970 and to serve on the USEA Board of Governors (formerly the USCTA) for 13 years.

She played a crucial role in shaping the Carolina Horse Park Foundation, where she served as vice president, president, and, most recently, as a dedicated director on the board. Her impact stretched far beyond her titles and accolades. She was named one of the 10 Most Influential People in Moore County in 2000, and her influence only grew with time.

From organizing the inaugural USEA American Eventing Championships to personally ensuring the cross-country courses were impeccably prepared, Williams never stopped giving back to the sport she loved. Those who knew her remember her as more than just a volunteer or competitor. She was a constant presence at the Carolina Horse Park, tending to every detail with care and dedication, from roping cross-country courses to leading caravans of jump judges, always with a smile on her face and her beloved dogs by her side.

Williams' contributions have been recognized by countless honors, including the prestigious USEA Governors Cup and the Andrew H. Popiel Memorial Award. Yet, beyond these accolades, her greatest legacy is the lasting impact she made on everyone around her—competitors, volunteers, and equestrian enthusiasts alike. Her tireless work and passion for the sport will continue to live on in the Carolina Horse Park and the hearts of those she touched. As we reflect on her incredible life, let us honor her by continuing the work she was so passionate about, ensuring that the horse, sport and community she cherished continue to thrive.

She is survived by her daughter, Sandra L. Williams; granddaughters, Lindsay S. Rose and Shannon C. Butler; and great-granddaughters, Caydence A. and Jocelyn H. Dick.

In lieu of flowers, consider a contribution to one of Lefreda’s beloved local interests.

Apr 24, 2025 Competitions

The 2025 K3DE Daily: Dressage Day 1

And they're off! The first official day of competition at the 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event (K3DE) begins today and we have a schedule jam-packed with dressage for both the four- and five-star fields.

Apr 23, 2025 Competitions

One Spun, 34 to Move Forward in Defender Kentucky CCI5*-L

The CCI5*-L field was narrowed by one this afternoon following the first horse inspection on High Hope Inspection Lane at the 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event. Horse and rider pairs were looking their best, with a few horses demonstrating their readiness for the upcoming competition through their flamboyant behavior (we're looking at you Bronte Beach Z and Dyri).

Apr 23, 2025 Competitions

Fence-By-Fence: The 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event Cross-Country Course Preview

The man, the myth, the legend himself, Derek di Grazia is back in his typical fashion at this year's Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event and he has designed some beautiful tracks for both the CCI5*-L and CCI4*-S competitions this year. You can get a first look at these amazing courses as well as some insider interviews with di Grazia himself thanks to our friends at the CrossCountry App!

Apr 23, 2025 Competitions

The 2025 K3DE Daily: First Horse Inspection

It's the most wonderful time of the year—and we aren't talking about the holiday season. Welcome to 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event (K3DE) week! This week the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky, will be crawling with eventing lovers from all across the globe for the first five-star of the 2025 season and the USEA is excited to once again be onsite for all of the action.

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