Lexington, KY, February 9, 2026
The United States Eventing Association (USEA) has announced the schedule for the Classic Series Three-Day Events, positioning Lexington, Kentucky, as a vital location for equestrian enthusiasts. This series offers riders of various skill levels the chance to participate in long-format competitions that assess their abilities in multiple disciplines, such as dressage, cross-country, and show jumping. With improved organization efforts, the events emphasize community engagement and educational opportunities while enhancing the equestrian culture in Lexington.
Lexington, KY: Exciting USEA Classic Series Three-Day Events Scheduled for 2026
Mark Your Calendars for Equine Excellence and Education
The United States Eventing Association (USEA) has unveiled the schedule for its 2026 Classic Series Three-Day Events, making Lexington, Kentucky, a key stop for equestrian enthusiasts. This series presents an opportunity for riders of varying expertise to engage in traditional long-format competitions that test the skills of both horse and rider across multiple disciplines, including dressage, roads and tracks, steeplechase, cross-country, and show jumping.
Notably, with reduced red tape and improved local organization, these events reflect a growing trend towards streamlined planning and execution, empowering local leaders to create enriching experiences for the community. The emphasis on participation and education—attributes that resonate through the eventing community—showcase how civic innovation can lead to impressive endeavors within Lexington.
2026 USEA Classic Series Schedule
The Classic Series in 2026 encompasses competitions at different levels, including Beginner Novice, Novice, Training, Modified, and Preliminary. Some prominent events from the schedule include:
- Longleaf Pine Horse Trials – April 10-12, 2026, Raeford, NC (Area II)
- Indiana Eventing Association Horse Trials – May 29-31, 2026, Edinburgh, IN (Area VIII)
- The Event at Rebecca Farm – July 15-19, 2026, Kalispell, MT (Area VII)
- Hagyard Midsouth Three-Day Event – October 14-18, 2026, Lexington, KY (Area VIII)
- Waredaca Classic Three-Day Event – October 23-25, 2026, Laytonsville, MD (Area II)
- Ram Tap Horse Trials & Classic Three-Day – November 13-15, 2026, Fresno, CA (Area VI)
Event Structure and Qualifications
The format of each Classic Three-Day Event is traditional, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience. The three main components include:
- Dressage Test
- Endurance Day – Comprising four phases:
- Phase A: Roads and Tracks
- Phase B: Steeplechase
- Phase C: Roads and Tracks
- Phase D: Cross-Country
- Show Jumping Test
Competitors must adhere to Minimum Eligibility Requirements (MERs) within 24 months leading up to the event, with qualifiers determined by level according to USEA Classic Series Guidelines.
Educational Opportunities
The USEA Classic Series emphasizes education alongside competition. Participants can attend seminars and demonstrations on critical skills such as:
- Horse inspection techniques
- Steeplechase practice sessions
- Cross-country course walks
- Conditioning and fitness seminars
These sessions enhance both rider knowledge and overall performance, reinforcing the community’s commitment to the growth of equestrian arts.
Prizes and Recognition
Participants will have opportunities to win exciting prizes, including USEA logowear and gear from prominent sponsors like Bates Saddlery and Stackhouse. Such support underscores the value of private partnerships in enriching local events and fostering a vibrant equestrian community.
About the USEA Classic Series
The USEA Classic Series is dedicated to preserving the long-standing traditions of eventing and offers riders a comprehensive and educational competition experience. By holding events across the nation, it provides participants at every level the chance to engage in this classic format.
Contact Information
For further inquiries regarding the USEA Classic Series, riders and interested parties are encouraged to reach out to Kaleigh Collett at (703) 669-9994 or Hannah Seagle at (703) 669-9998.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the USEA Classic Series?
The USEA Classic Series is a series of traditional long-format three-day events organized by the United States Eventing Association (USEA), offering riders the opportunity to compete in events that include dressage, roads and tracks, steeplechase, cross-country, and show jumping.
What are the dates and locations of the 2026 USEA Classic Series events?
The 2026 USEA Classic Series includes events at various levels, with notable events such as the Longleaf Pine Horse Trials in Raeford, NC, the Indiana Eventing Association Horse Trials in Edinburgh, IN, and the Hagyard Midsouth Three-Day Event in Lexington, KY. For a complete list of events and detailed schedules, please refer to the USEA Classic Series page.
How can I participate in a USEA Classic Series event?
To participate in a USEA Classic Series event, riders must meet Minimum Eligibility Requirements (MERs) within 24 months prior to the event. Specific qualifications vary by level and are detailed in the USEA Classic Series Guidelines. For more information, contact Kaleigh Collett at (703) 669-9994 or Hannah Seagle at (703) 669-9998.
What educational opportunities are available at USEA Classic Series events?
USEA Classic Series events often feature seminars and demonstrations on topics such as horse inspection techniques, steeplechase practice sessions, cross-country course walks, and conditioning and fitness seminars, aiming to enhance rider knowledge and performance.
What prizes are awarded in the USEA Classic Series?
Competitors in the USEA Classic Series have the chance to win various prizes, including USEA logowear, Bates Saddlery gear, and Stackhouse saddles, thanks to generous sponsors.
Key Features of the USEA Classic Series Three-Day Events
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Structure | Traditional long-format three-day events including dressage, roads and tracks, steeplechase, cross-country, and show jumping. |
| Educational Opportunities | Seminars and demonstrations on horse inspection techniques, steeplechase practice sessions, cross-country course walks, and conditioning and fitness seminars. |
| Prizes | Opportunities to win USEA logowear, Bates Saddlery gear, and Stackhouse saddles, thanks to generous sponsors. |
| Contact Information | For more information, contact Kaleigh Collett at (703) 669-9994 or Hannah Seagle at (703) 669-9998. |
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