United States Eventing Association

Last weekend, I took my wonderful horse Dun Looking (aka “Ted”) to the event we’ve been working to qualify for since we moved up to Training level last spring: the Smartpak/USEA Classic Series Training Three Day at Waredaca. Before I get into the details of how the weekend went, I want to take this opportunity to give a huge “Thank You!” to all the organizers and volunteers at the event this weekend. They made such an effort to make this a fun and educational competition for everyone involved, and they succeeded. Whenever someone told me this event would be the most fun I ever had at a competition, I had no idea how right they were! I hope everyone who helped out knows how much their work is appreciated.

Absolutely everyone was helpful, encouraging, and approachable. I am a very shy and quiet person, and even I was able to ask questions, talk to people, and make friends. They walked us through every step of the way if we wanted help. They gave us the opportunity to practice and become comfortable with the phases that were new to us, and offered numerous talks, demonstrations, and course walks. When the time came to actually compete, I for one felt confident that I knew what I was doing, and could focus on what I needed to focus on. As for the horses, Ted absolutely loved the long format, and thought steeplechase was the coolest thing ever! I found that he was so much better prepared coming out of the start box of phase D than he’s ever been, and was straight and steady even at the first jump.

Overall, both Ted and I had the time of our lives, as did I think a lot of the other competitors. I am convinced now that these Classic Series three-days are invaluable to any rider’s education, especially if they, like me, are hoping to make it to the FEI levels someday. Even if they aren’t, it was amazing to get to see first-hand a piece of eventing history, and take part in a long-format competition like the ones I grew up watching. I got to experience the level of a competition you have to qualify for, the intensity of a long format, and the pride of completing something you’ve worked hard for – and getting to do a victory gallop! For those of us who have, for various reasons, struggled for a long time to get somewhere in eventing, this was like a dream come true. No matter where I get to with my riding, I will take this event with me as one of the best (and most fun) things I could have done on my way.

The USEA would like to thank the Classic Series sponsors: SmartPak, Stackhouse Saddlery, Point Two Air Jackets, and Fleeceworks.