United States Eventing Association

Virginia Horse Trials Offers Two New Divisions for May Event

The closing date is fast approaching for the May 23-26 Virginia Horse Trials (VHT) International and Horse Trials at the Virginia Horse Center in Lexington, Virginia. With two new divisions on offer this year, the 2019 spring edition of the Virginia Horse Trials may be the best yet.

Beginner Novice through Advanced/Intermediate divisions, including Modified, are on the schedule this year as well as a debut Starter division with fences set at 2’-2’3”. Starter is the perfect opportunity for newcomers to the sport (both horses and riders) to dip their toes into competition at a world-class facility. International divisions include CCI3*-S, CCI2*-L, and, for the first time at the spring event, a CCI2*-S class.

“We try to make positive changes based on feedback from competitors and add a little something new every year,” Organizer Andy Bowles said. “It was natural for us to add the CCI2*-S to the schedule considering the popularity of the CCI2*-L. And with our schooling shows throughout the year seeing so much success, we’re hoping to see some of the competitors from those shows joining us at the recognized level, from Starter on up.”

Young Event Horse divisions for 4- and 5-year-olds are also available for the next generation of eventing horses to get an educational experience and qualify for the USEA Young Event Horse Championships.

There is something for everyone at Virginia Horse Trials, from the green beans all the way to the professional ranks. Competitors are guaranteed great courses, carefully maintained footing, good food on site, and ample vendors, all on a sprawling facility in the valley of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

“We’ve really settled into our rhythm at VHT, and we are excited about everything we are presenting to competitors year after year,” Bowles said. “We have a great team dedicated to putting on the best event possible and giving every horse and rider a great experience no matter what level they compete.”

This is always a large competition with 400+ horses. Don’t wait until the last minute to enter! Closing date is Tuesday, May 7.