World-class equestrian competition is back with full spectator attendance and opportunities for giving back
After a one-year hiatus for spectators due to Covid-19, The Event at Rebecca Farm will be running at full strength for competitors and spectators, July 21-25. The Event draws more than 600 riders and 8,000 spectators each year to the picturesque Flathead Valley in northwest Montana.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of The Event at Rebecca Farm where hundreds of world-class competitors participate in the largest equestrian triathlon west of the Mississippi. Riders compete in three disciplines — dressage, show jumping, and cross-country — that combine to form the thrilling sport of eventing.
“We are so excited to be able to celebrate the 20th anniversary of this amazing community event in person and back at full capacity,” said Lorraine Clarno, President of the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce.
In addition to viewing the exciting equestrian competition, The Event at Rebecca Farm welcomes all ages of spectators to enjoy the Kid Zone, Pony Up! horsemanship experience, shopping fair and food trucks. The experience has been curated to have something for everyone from art, jewelry, and decor, to face painting, mini-golf, ice cream, and cold, local brews.
The Event is free for all spectators, and a $10 parking donation is encouraged that benefits the charitable initiative Halt Cancer at X, which was established in memory of Event founder Rebecca Broussard. Annually, Montana Equestrian Events, through Halt Cancer at X, provides grants to a national research project seeking a cure for breast cancer and to local nonprofits providing support services to cancer patients and survivors.
Complying with the United States Equestrian Federation and state guidelines regarding Covid-19, the outdoor event will be open to the public. Event organizers ask that those not fully vaccinated against Covid-19 wear a mask and socially distance themselves while in enclosed areas.
This year’s 20th anniversary of The Event at Rebecca Farm marks a major milestone for the sport and one that will require a tremendous community effort from volunteers of all ages.
“Volunteering is a unique way to experience The Event — volunteers get an up-close look at all the action and are treated like family. That’s what keeps them coming back year after year — they have a great time, meet new friends and enjoy giving back,” said Event Organizer Sarah Broussard. “I’m so grateful to the hundreds of people who generously donate their time — we truly couldn’t do it without them.”
Volunteer recruitment is underway for the 2021 Event at Rebecca Farm and a range of opportunities are available from July 21-25. Volunteers enjoy a backstage pass to a high-profile event by serving in a variety of roles such as jump judge, score runner, and hospitality assistant. No experience is required to join the volunteer team. First-time participants, families, and groups are highly encouraged to participate.
To learn more about the volunteer opportunities at The Event at Rebecca Farm, visit www.rebeccafarm.org/get-involved/#volunteer or contact Kelli at 406-253-3416, Brynn at 406-212-3821 or email [email protected].
ABOUT THE EVENT AT REBECCA FARM
The Event at Rebecca Farm, presented by non-profit Montana Equestrian Events, is held every July in Kalispell, Montana. One of the largest equestrian triathlons in the United States, The Event is also considered to have some of the world’s finest scenery. Each year it draws hundreds of riders of all levels, from national competition novice through advanced, to international 4-star.
The Event at Rebecca Farm has 13 cross-country courses that feature five water complexes and more than 150 obstacles. The courses were originally developed by world-renowned course designer, Mark Phillips, and later redesigned by Scottish equestrian Ian Stark. Known for his immense contributions to eventing, Stark has won multiple Olympic medals and was inducted into the Scottish Sports Hall of Fame in 2010.
Parking donations and auction proceeds received during The Event at Rebecca Farm benefit the charitable initiative Halt Cancer at X, which was established in memory of Event founder Rebecca Broussard. Annually, Montana Equestrian Events, through Halt Cancer at X, provides grants to a national research project seeking a cure for breast cancer and to local nonprofits providing support services to cancer patients and survivors. Since 2012, Halt Cancer at X has awarded more than $720,000 in combined national and community grants.
For more information, visit www.rebeccafarm.org.
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