United States Eventing Association

They say it’s too far to travel, that January is too cold, and some even say that it’s a waste of time. Sadly, I’ve even heard it whispered that the Annual Meeting is just boring.

So, I turned to the infamous “They” and asked, “Have you ever attended? Have you ever sat with your fellow eventer and cheered as they picked up year-end ribbons? Or, have you ever watched the Young Riders' year played out on a slideshow of inspiration? No, comments like that prove that you, the infamous “They," have yet to experience the fun of Area I’s Annual Meeting!”

This year, 100 strong showed up for a packed agenda coupled with a very competitive Silent Auction. Lunch was a spectacular Italian buffet ending with an array of sweets. It was an event filled with challenge (beating out a neighbor to win a coveted entry), clapping (congratulations to year-end award winners), and culture.

From the Organizers Meeting:

• Fitch's Corner will once again be hosting the Area Championships as well as celebrating their 20th anniversary. It should be another fabulous event!
• Events may charge a fee for late entries (after closing date). The amount will be published in the Omnibus.
• In February 2013, the USEF Technical Committee approved that effective 2014, one fall is OK at Beginner Novice/Novice, provided you land on your feet. Further details will be published in Optimum Minutes.
• For those of you working to qualify for a CIC* or CCI*, there are more steps required to move up. The details are posted on the FEI website.
• Great news! Stuart Horse Trials is working to bring back the CIC1* and 2*… stay tuned.

From the Annual Meeting:

• Thanks to our fundraising efforts, an increase in starters as well as an increase in our membership, Area I is in a great financial position. As always, we’re looking for your ideas on how to better utilize our Area and Program funds.
• Kudos to George Cheney who received the Chairman’s Award for the volunteer who has made a significant contribution to Area 1. George has been running the Silent Auction for several years and this year alone raised well over $4,500!
• Special thanks to Salisbury Bank and Trust, founder of the Eventing “Sportsmanship Award.” They were on hand with gifts for all attendees and provided a free drawing for a $200 Bit of Britain gift certificate.
• Joan Davis from Flatlandsfoto once again donated over $530 to the Adult Riders Program from the sale of her most awesome 2013 Area I Eventing Calendars.

From the Keynote Speaker – Steven Kraus, Head Farrier at Cornell University:

“The Effects of Conformation on Performance and Soundness”
It was evident from the minute Steve began his talk that he was not a man given to vague references or
uncertain opinions. He believes that by understanding conformation we can select and manage our performance
horses to have a long and sound career.

He provided photographic examples of conformational defects and how those defects manifest in the hoof. His
explanations left more than a few of us picturing the hooves of our own horses, trying to determine how they fit
the photos shown. Steve methodically gave us an overview of how conformational problems could be managed
through proper shoeing.

Ultimately, by knowing more about its effects on performance, a buyer may be more prudent in selecting good
conformation in their future event horse.

Be sure to check the upcoming Optimum Minutes for more Annual Meeting notes!