There is no doubt that most eventers are well-organized and travel to events with most everything they need. But a classic series long format event is a little different. Your preparation will start much earlier with the conditioning that must take place and you will be likely be staying at the venue several days longer than you would for a regular horse trial. Part of the fun of doing a classic series long format event is having the opportunity to 'test' your organization skills and showcase yourself and your horse at your best. So, attention to the details becomes part of the experience!
To that end, there are some supplies that will help make the week a success that might not be on your radar for a regular horse trial. Starting early on building your 'kit' will make your life much easier. Some general things to think about bringing along are:
At a classic series long format event, you will have two formal veterinary inspections. Having supplies at the ready for down-to-the-wire touch-ups will ensure your horse looks his best for the judges. You might include:
It is no secret that a really cool part of the classic series long format experience is the 10-minute "vet box" on endurance day. Because time is limited and the objective is to maximize the cooling out of the horse so he is ready to go cross-country, it is particularly important to be organized and well-prepared for anything. Here are some groupings that might help you to that end:
Cooling Supplies
Tack
Miscellaneous
Unique to the classic series long format is the assistance area after phase B, the steeplechase phase. It is wise to have a separate kit to take there in case your designated helper doesn't get back in time for the 10-minute vet box. Some things to include are:
These lists are just a jumping-off place to get you thinking about your classic series long format experience. Every rider needs to adapt their own list to their individual horse's needs. But it never hurts to be overly prepared. Good luck!
The United States Eventing Association, Inc. (USEA) is thrilled to announce Canter Culture as a “Silver Sponsor for the USEA American Eventing Championships” taking place at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky, Aug. 27-Sept. 1.
If you’re a new team setting out to compete in the 2024 USEA Intercollegiate and Interscholastic Eventing Championships in just a couple of weeks, preparing for the “happiest horse trial” in the U.S. may seem a bit daunting. With five components to the Spirit Award contest that require creativity and cohesion between team members, there is a lot that goes into preparing and packing to leave for the event.
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.
Since the mid-’80s, lifelong horsewoman and professional artist Debra Sue Waters has devoted countless hours to the sport of eventing, and last year topped the rankings of the USEA Volunteer Incentive Program in Area V. Assisting behind the scenes at an event just comes naturally to the Millsap, Texas, resident.