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Equestrian Weekly Articles

Here you can find our archive of stories from Equestrian Weekly, our once-a-week look at affiliate news, international competition, amateur profiles, horse care tips, and more. You’ll also find stories from the USEF Insider, a twice-monthly email newsletter packed with features about USEF people and programs, including our drugs and medications program, regulations, and competitions departments.

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Practicing Patience: Owner Carol Stephens on Finding and Developing Five-Star Event Horses

by Carol Stephens | May 19, 2025

Starting with a young horse and bringing it up the levels can be such a rewarding journey. The youngest horse I have bought was less than a day old and the oldest was 9. I would say the newborn was an impulse buy because his full brother, Dream Boy, that I own was running his first 5* that very day, but all the other horses I have purchased have been with patience. After looking for over a year, I bought two horses within a few days of each other this year. Rather than buying trips, I enjoy

US Equestrian Community Outreach Organizations' Summer Camp Opportunities

by Allyson Mattingly | May 5, 2025

Summer is quickly approaching, which means more free time, family vacations, fun in the sun - and for young equestrians, horse camp! While equestrian camps are an exciting and educational way to get your child involved with horses while maximizing their time off from school, finding the right camp can be difficult. Luckily, many of US Equestrian’s Community Outreach Organizations host summer camps for children of all abilities throughout the country. Camps fill up quickly, so start your

Meet the Connemara Ponies at the Chewy Demonstration Ring at the 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event Presented by MARS Equestrian

by Leslie Potter | April 26, 2025

Elliott Timmons and Topgun, Cathy Blackmon and Finn, Ella Graham and Lil, Amanda Burriel and Shamrock. ©Leslie Potter/US Equestrian Lexington, Ky. – While eventing competition heats up in the Rolex stadium at the 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian TM , there’s even more for horse fans to see just down the hill at the Chewy Demonstration & Exhibitions Ring. Over the years, the demo ring has featured countless breeds, disciplines, and other

Meet the Thoroughbreds of the 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian™

by Isabelle Whiteside/US Equestrian Communications Dept. | April 23, 2025

We love them for their speed and now admire them just as much for their heart, talent, and versatility. With the #BestWeekendAllYear upon the Kentucky Horse Park this week, let us look at some of the Thoroughbreds who have transformed their racing roots into second careers in the world of eventing. These equine athletes will put their skills to the test in the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian™ CCI5*-L and the Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S this weekend, beginning

The Vehicles of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II Make a Final North American Tour Stop at the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event Presented by MARS Equestrian™

by Isabelle Whiteside/US Equestrian Communications Dept. | April 23, 2025

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was known for her lifelong love of horses, having ridden from age three until her passing at 96. She also had a deep appreciation for cars, particularly Land Rovers. Her interest in driving and mechanics was sparked during the Second World War, when she served in the Auxiliary Territorial Service, where she drove and maintained military and rescue vehicles. Spectators at the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian™ will have the

Six Things to Experience at the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event Presented by MARS Equestrian™

by Allyson Mattingly | April 17, 2025

The 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian™ , which kicks off this Thursday, April 24, is one of the most prestigious equestrian events in the world. Featuring exceptional equestrian competitions in dressage, cross-country, and show jumping, it’s no wonder this international event is known as the best weekend all year! In addition to three days of jaw-dropping action, spectators can explore the grounds for unlimited shopping opportunities, delicious

Women in Sport: Rebecca Hart

by Leslie Potter/US Equestrian | April 11, 2025

When the U.S. Para Dressage Team won Paralympic gold medal at the Paris 2024 games, it was a historic moment. Not only was it the first Paralympic team gold for the U.S., but the team that clinched that win was composed of all women athletes: Roxanne Trunnell, Kate Shoemaker, Fiona Howard, and Becca Hart. Becca Hart and Floratina at the 2024 Paris Paralympics. ©Devyn Trethewey/US Equestrian Hart has been a cornerstone of the U.S. Para Dressage program for many years and has numerous

I Am US Equestrian: Chris Powierski

by US Equestrian Communications Department | April 8, 2025

For this week’s I Am US Equestrian Member Spotlight, meet Chris. US Equestrian first met Chris during our visit to Prancing Horse Center for Therapeutic Horsemanship, one of the USEF Community Outreach Organizations in Southern Pines, N.C. Chris first learned about horses through his friend, Jonathan, who has been riding with Prancing Horse for more than 30 years. Watching Jonathan compete in a horse show sparked his interest in riding, which led to him connecting with Prancing Horse.

Fun Spring Activities for Young Equestrians

by Allyson Mattingly | March 31, 2025

Goodbye dreary winter, and hello sun! Spring has sprung, and everyone is itching to go outside to celebrate the longer days and rising temperatures. With spring break and summer vacations on the horizon, it’s time to start planning engaging activities that you can do with your horse-crazy child. Every pony loves a treat! Photo Credit: Leslie Potter/US Equestrian DIY Horse Toys Although toys are not essential for your horse’s wellbeing, offering enrichment opportunities gives them

Junior Equestrian of the Year: Where Are They Now? Molly Ashe Cawley

by Debbie Elliot | March 26, 2025

1988 was a pivotal year in the life of Molly Ashe Cawley. It was the year that her father passed away, but also the year that she was named by USEF as the Junior Equestrian of the Year. “That was a bright light in a dark moment,” Ashe Cawley recalled of receiving the honor. Now a successful grand prix rider in the U.S. and internationally, Ashe Cawley has numerous accolades to her name, including being the first American and first woman to win the Grand Prix of Berlin in Germany. Up

Women in Sport: Anne Kursinski

by Christine Rivet | March 25, 2025

Having first started riding at age four, Anne Kursinski is no stranger to equestrian sport. She rode on her first Nations’ Cup team in 1976 while still attending high school, setting herself up to ride for Team USA at three different Olympic Games, where she earned two silver medals. Beginning her career at the international level during a time where men dominated the sport, Kursinski has been able to witness the shift in equality amongst competitors. “Growing up in the States

Celebrating Women in U.S. Equestrian History

by Diarmuid Byrne | EquiRatings | March 11, 2025

©US Equestrian Honoring the Legacy of Women in Equestrian Sport Women have played a crucial role in shaping the history of equestrian sports in the United States and beyond. From breaking gender barriers and breaking records to achieving Olympic glory, their contributions continue to inspire future generations of riders - right up to the all-female US Paralympic team. As we celebrate Women's History Month, we honor these trailblazers who have left an indelible mark on equestrian sport.