Galway Downs’ main arena boasts unique spectator seating and a backdrop of flags representing an international array of competitors. Photo by Tina Fitch Photography.
After two years on the East Coast, the United States Eventing Association, Inc. (USEA) is thrilled to be packing our bags and heading West for the 2025 USEA American Eventing Championships (AEC) presented by Nutrena Feeds. On August 26-31 top USEA competitors from near and far will converge on Galway Downs in Temecula, California, for the annual championship that celebrates every level of the Olympic sport of eventing from Starter through Advanced. This year’s event will again feature the $60,000 Adequan USEA Advanced Final and the USEA Adult Team Championships.
Galway Downs is a premier multi-purpose equestrian facility. Spanning over 240 acres, Galway Downs boasts 500 stalls and tack rooms with room to add more temporary stabling, a 1-mile racetrack, a 5/8-mile training track, 14 arenas for training and competition, 15 miles of trails, 49 RV hook-ups, and numerous other amenities that make it a destination for equestrians of every discipline from across the country. Galway Downs successfully hosts competitions for multiple disciplines throughout the year, including hunter/jumper, dressage, and eventing. Most recently, the venue hosted the 2023 USEF CCI2*-L and USEF CCI4*-L Eventing National Championships and the 2023 USEF Eventing Young Rider National Championships, presented by USEA.
If you are interested in competing at this year’s AEC at Galway Downs, it is never too early to start reviewing your qualifications. The qualifying period for the 2025 AEC is open from May 20, 2024 to August 12, 2025. All riders interested in competing must be current members of the USEA, holding a Junior, Full, or Life Membership, at the time the qualification is earned. All horses must have a Limited or Full Status registration, at the time of qualification, to be eligible to compete based on their level. Qualifying results must be achieved at USEA/USEA-recognized events, and they cannot have any cross-country jump penalties.
Both horse and rider must have completed a total of three USEA recognized horse trials during the qualifying period although not necessarily as a horse/rider combination for Starter through Preliminary Championships. The placing requirement, where applicable, is included in the total of three competitions and must be achieved by the rider and the horse at the level intended for the AEC, although not necessarily as a horse/rider combination. Placing requirements earned through the USEA Amateur Upgrade Policy apply only toward the amateur divisions and the Open Starter and Open Modified divisions. To view a full listing of qualification requirements by level, click here.
Entries for the 2025 AEC will open on July 15 and close on August 12. To confirm your qualification, visit the AEC Qualified Riders and AEC Qualified Horses lists throughout the year. An Athlete and/or a Horse may be entered without having fulfilled the qualifications, provided the qualifications are fulfilled by the closing date. If you have any further questions, please check the AEC Qualification page or call the office at (703) 779-0440 ext. 3008 to reach Hannah Seagle, Director of Competitions.
For those planning to travel to Galway Downs from a distance, there are several accommodations in the local area based on your needs. The most convenient option for those traveling in an RV or a trailer with living quarters are the RV hookup options available on-site. Each parking site features full electric, water, and septic hookups. Click here to reserve your parking space today. If you are interested in on-site lodging, Stay Kentina offers vacation rentals on and around 240-acre venue as well.
Just minutes from Temecula Valley is another great accommodation option, Native Falls Campground and Lodging. The campground offers a variety of options for your stay, including fully furnished cabins, RV sites, or tent camping. There is also a lake with a waterfall, sandy beach, lake toys, and catch & release fishing on the property, as well as a Pickleball Court, Shuffle Board, Pool Table, fire pits, picnic tables, hiking trails, and more to enjoy during your stay.
Temecula Creek Inn, which is less than seven miles from Galway Downs, is a more boutique option for interested parties that are looking for spacious suites, farm-to-table food, handcrafted cocktails, and picturesque views of their championship-level golf course. Special rates are available for Galway Downs guests when you click here to book.
Galway Downs is a hub for more than horses. It’s nestled in the heart of Temecula Valley Wine Country, a top 10 travel destination for wine lovers from around the world. Hot air balloon rides, winery tours and strolls through charming Old Town Temecula highlight family and couples’ activities. Options range from luxurious spa sessions, fine dining, and casino action to line dancing parties, trail rides, and other leisure activities unique to the beautiful area and its uniquely elegant rural lifestyle. Visit visittemeculavalley.com for great ideas!
Galway Downs is located at 38801 Los Corralitos Road in Temecula, California. From I-15 take 79 South, turn left on Los Caballos Rd, then right on Los Corralitos to arrive at your destination. Temecula is conveniently located approximately 60 minutes from San Diego and 90 minutes from Los Angeles, making the SAN or LAX airports your best options for air travel. Don’t forget to use the USEA Member Rewards travel partners to save money when you make your plans!
For general questions about the AEC, please contact Kate Lokey. For questions regarding AEC qualifications, contact Hannah Seagle. To confirm qualifications, visit the AEC Qualified Riders and AEC Qualified Horses lists throughout the year. We look forward to seeing you in sunny Southern California this August!
