It’s always so interesting to get a peek behind the scenes at an event. While we focus primarily on the horses and riders competing each weekend, we can always shine more light on those who make these events run smoothly. There is much pre-work done to prepare a venue for an event, whether it’s a major 4* or a local horse trial.
Cathy Wieschhoff was the course designer for the 2* at Chattahoochee Hills at Bouckaert Farm this weekend, and as is her nature she welcomed us along with her with a series of short, informative videos as she completed her tasks ahead of competition. I thought it would be interesting to share these videos with our readers for some additional insights into what goes into putting on an event.
You can give Cathy a follow on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube to keep up with her videos — she’s a wealth of knowledge, and we should all be so lucky to learn from someone with her depth of experience!
All videos used in this article are from Instagram — if the embedded videos below do not display in your browser, please click here.
Checking in on arrival at the venue (with a special stowaway on the golf cart!):
A few notes on the importance of cross country fence decoration:
Next up, filling out forms for the FEI — in case you thought course designing got you out of paperwork!
Followed by a lovely evening spent on the dock…
Next up — why we video some fences on FEI cross country:
And that’s a wrap! But not before a quick stop in Tennessee to finalize courses for River Glen. No rest for the weary (or the highly caffienated!).
Many thanks to Cathy for taking us along with her in her travels. If you see her around at an event, be sure to say hi and to thank her for all her dedication to the sport.
