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Feb 24, 2020
Twin Rivers Winter Horse Trials News
Pan Am Games team gold medalist Tamra Smith and Mai Baum and five-star pairs Andrea Baxter and Indy 500 and Frankie Thieriot Stutes and Chatwin headline a strong Advanced field when Twin Rivers begins an exciting season of eventing competition this weekend.
Weather for the Winter Horse Trials looks distinctly un-wintery Feb. 28-March 1, as the Baxter family-owned venue on California's Central Coast welcomes 300-plus contenders. Joining the aforementioned pairs running Advanced are newly-anointed members of the USEF's U25 Eventing Program: Maddy Temkin, Kaylawna Smith-Cook, and Megan Skyes. The levels through Introductory will see future star horses and riders tackle new challenges.
Twin Rivers' 500 acres are green and tracks designed by new upper level course designer Hugh Lochore are full of new tests. Plus, teasers for what's to come at April's inaugural Spring International CCI4*-L, one of only six competitions at this rigorous level in the United States.
"They are a progressive bunch," says Lochore of the Baxter family. Along with five-star eventer Andrea Baxter, organizer Connie Baxter has extensive eventing experience and Whirlwind Excavating owner Jeff Baxter happily applies his expertise and equipment to bringing Lochore's ideas to life.
"The venue has interesting topography and it's a good canvas to play with," Lochore adds. "It's exciting when you put things on paper, then you have a team that is keen to get the bit between their teeth and make it happen." Lochore designed the Preliminary through Advanced courses; Marc Grandia designed the Intro through Training. Show Jumping course designer Jose Nava has colorful new obstacles to work with in the arena.
The Winter Horse Trials are presented by Auburn Labs, makers of adaptogenic APF Formula for horses, riders and dogs; and Professional's Choice, manufacturers of top-of-the-line sports medicine boots for horses. Supporting Sponsors include Best Western PLUS Black Oak, which offers great exhibitor deals on nearby lodging; and Riding Warehouse, the horse gear and supply company located in nearby San Luis Obispo.
Volunteer opportunities abound and all those helping out will have their name entered in a raffle for generous prizes. These include Twin Rivers entries, stabling and a cross-country schooling certificate; and a Family 4 Pack of tickets to the San Diego Zoo or San Diego Zoo Safari. More hours equals more raffle tickets!
For competition-related inquires, contact Christina Gray of Gray Area Events at [email protected].
May 09, 2025
Convention
Experience the Spirit of New Orleans at this Year’s USEA Annual Meeting & Convention
The United States Eventing Association, Inc. (USEA) is excited to head to Area V this Dec. 11-14 for the 2025 USEA Annual Meeting & Convention in the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana! Known for its rich history, world-class jazz, and electrifying Mardi Gras celebrations, New Orleans will set the stage for a lively week of discussion and education on the most important topics in the sport of eventing. Gather your fellow members and meet us to celebrate the last year of success in “The Big Easy!”
May 08, 2025
Competitions
Tom McEwen and JL Dublin are Stars of the Show at the MARS Badminton Horse Trials
The Olympic gold medallists Tom McEwen and JL Dublin lit up the arena at the MARS Badminton Horse Trials with a stunning performance and took the lead after the first day of dressage with the excellent mark of 22.4. They have almost five penalties over second-placed Emily King and Valmy Biats on 27.3.
May 08, 2025
Education
Pressure Proof Tip with Daniel Stewart: Reframing Isn't About Hanging Pictures
At some point in your riding career, you probably found yourself feeling or dealing with a little fear, failure, or frustration. We’ve all been there. Regardless of whether we’re competitive or recreational, we’ve likely found ourselves getting a bit stuck on stress or a struggle; dealing with a little defeat or disappointment, or feeling overwhelmed or underprepared.
May 07, 2025
Interscholastic
Through the Lens: 2025 USEA Intercollegiate & Interscholastic Eventing Championships
We might still be recovering physically from the excitement of the 2025 USEA Intercollegiate & Interscholastic Eventing Championships, but mentally we keep playing the weekend over and over again in our heads. This is a weekend that many eventers and lovers of the sport all over the country (ourselves included) look forward to each year and this year was no exception. From teams getting to experience their first time ever at the championship to mascots swapping gear in a show of camaraderie, there were so many great moments that took place during this year's end-of-the-school-year event. Take a look at some of our favorite moments from the three day competition below!
