Login
Apr 06, 2023
Waredaca Farm Riding Surface Strategy and Plan
The Waredaca Farm strategy is to use science and best practices to implement improved riding surfaces that are safe, healthy, and offer appropriate performance for the task, which includes education, training, and competitions. Waredaca Farm has aligned with other venues in the USA which are advancing the state-of-the-art. Waredaca has partnered with Bill Hawe from iEquiTek.
The first step was to make a commitment to use best practices and scientific knowledge to improve outcomes. This happened in the Fall of 2022. This meant Waredaca Farm laid out a vision and was willing to question how that might be accomplished with no preconceived notions.
The second step was to articulate a multi-step plan which would upgrade each of the riding surfaces, starting with their-most used surface, the indoor arena. The selection of the footing material for the surface had several criteria: (a) it must have been successfully laboratory tested, (b) it must have been installed and successfully used in a demanding environment, preferably in Maryland, (c) the technical assessment from the laboratory testing must align with the qualitative assessment of professional equestrian athletes, (d) it must be affordable and maintainable, and (e) the footing material must have a longevity of 15 or more years. Waredaca Farm obtained a quote for engineered footing material, to be acquired in steps, all of which met these criteria.
The third step is the installation of new footing material in all three areas. This step is underway now. The indoor arena was completed in early January. It is being used and receiving great reviews.
These best practices provide longevity while minimizing disruption to the environment. They thus serve to protect open spaces while furthering the educational and land stewardship objectives of Waredaca Farm. Waredaca Farm has embarked on a multi-step strategy to use these best practices and scientific design approaches to improve its performance outcomes. As a result, it is anticipated that horses will be sounder, surfaces will be safer, and performance will be predictable.
Nov 21, 2024
News
Weekend Quick Links: November 23-24
Are you following along with the action from home this weekend? Or maybe you're competing at an event and need information fast. Either way, we’ve got you covered! Check out the USEA’s Weekend Quick Links for links to information including the prize list, ride times, live scores, and more for all the events running this weekend.
Nov 21, 2024
Volunteers
The VIP Volunteers: Ed and Leanne Barnett Dedicate Nearly 40 Years to Volunteering
Last month, readers met VIP Volunteer Rebecca Proetto, who volunteered at the MARS Maryland 5 Star horse inspection. This month, the focus turns to husband and wife Ed and Leanne Barnett who introduced Proetto to the art of running an efficient horse inspection at Maryland. Ed and Leanne undertake a 12-hour drive from their home in Indiana to Maryland just to volunteer at the event.
Nov 20, 2024
News
In Memoriam: As You Like It (1990-2024)
The USEA is saddened to share the passing of Sara Kozumplik’s five-star partner As You Like It at the age of 34. The gelding died in his sleep at his retirement home at Kozumplik's parents' residence.
Nov 19, 2024
Emerging Athletes U21
Meet the 12 EA21 Young Riders Selected for the 2024-2025 USEA EA21 National Camp
The 2024 USEA Emerging Athletes U21 (EA21) National Camp is just a little over a month away and all over the country, young riders are preparing for their trip to Ocala, Florida, to participate in this year's prestigious week-long academy led by U.S. eventing legend David O'Connor. This year's camp takes place Dec. 31, 2024, through Jan. 4, 2025, and will feature classroom sessions, guest lecturers, and in the saddle work as a group to help strengthen the foundation of each rider selected to participate.
