Several FHTA members prepared for the ultimate personal challenge for most amateur eventers… the long format event taught in a 5-day educational format 11/18-11/22/25.
Congratulations to FHTA Members Katie Emerson, Sade Cain, Pam Paulk, Christina Chu Addison Shelby and Trudy Richardson (also trainer Lindsay Barrack and everyone’s support crew) for their grit, grace and determination to challenge themselves and their horses to get extra fit and relive the glory days of eventing’s storied history through this exciting, unique event!
Top instructors led educational sessions during the 2 days prior to the 3-day competition. Megan Graham did a Ride-A-Test, Jon Holling steeplechase practice and Karen O’Conner (the queen!) did “How to Jog” workshop! Other education focused on all aspects of eventing like the vet box, conditioning and course decoration.
But the best part of this show is the pride of accomplishment that each rider felt, the learning along the way and the support of the amazing people who make up the eventing community!
Another way to get involved is to volunteer! Check out EventingVolunteers.com (Select Area III for FL) and find a show to help. Shows ALWAYS need help in FL! Krista Wilson, Becky Harris and Sonia Davis were there – and Becky sponsored a special Grit & Grace award and she urged the riders all week to look for someone who defines these two aspects of eventing. Congratulations to Autumn Schweiss on winning this award.
The Fri night competitor party had a huge array of hilarious and important awards, that make the effort of this show all worth it! Huge thanks to Lauren Romanelli and everyone who sponsored these awards. I didn’t count, but there were at least 15!
Here are Betty Tsitrian and Chris Aytug cooling down Pam Paulk’s Hero after her AMAZING ride on endurance day. Betty went above and beyond (as she usually does) and volunteered EVERY DAY of the event. And was still smiling, laughing and helping everyone. Betty, you are the best.
Check out the facebook page for this year’s event here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3404742549774873
If you are interested in entering for the next one (date TBD), here are the requirements (for BN & Starter just as an example) you will need to complete at a schooling or recognized competition.
Beginner Novice (BN) Classic Three-day Event (BN3D): Open to competitors of any age, on horses four years of age or older. The competitor and horse must have achieved two or more Minimum Eligibility Requirements (MERs) at a BN level or higher horse trial or event. A competitor established at the Training Level may compete on a horse that has obtained one MER at the BN Level or higher with a different rider. All qualifying competitions must be completed within 12 months of the start of the competition.
Starter Classic Three-Day Event (S3D): Open to competitors of any age, on horses four years of age or older. The competitor and horse must have achieved two or more Minimum Eligibility Requirements (MERs) at a Starter level or higher horse trial or event. A competitor established at the Training Level may compete on a horse that has obtained one MER at the Starter Level or higher with a different rider. All qualifying competitions must be completed within 12 months of the start of the competition. (Please provide proof of completion by either a copy of the results or verification from the Organizer)
MER (minimum eligibility requirement): Dressage – no more than 45 penalty pointsCross-country – no jumping penalties and not more than 30 time penalties Show jumping – no more than 16 jump penalties
