Lynn Symansky and Bounce 6 trot up at TerraNova last November. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.
The Event at TerraNova (November 11-15) sits at the end of the FEI eventing season each year, but it’s become a destination for many horses and riders looking for a strong finish to the year. Of course, it’s helpful that TerraNova’s location in Myakka City, FL also provides ample excuse for a good pre-Thanksgiving getaway.
And while TerraNova has built up a reputation for its top-quality facilities and well-run events, another way it distinguishes itself is its involvement with the local community and the nature of philanthropy. It was built into the core of the usage of the land, which was purchased to develop into not only TerraNova Equestrian Center but also The Estates at TerraNova, creating an ultimate residential neighborhood for the active equestrian. TerraNova’s Myakka Initiative outlines their stewardship responsibilities in terms of their management of the land and its ecosystems.
This year’s Event at TerraNova features an expanded list of initiatives designed to give back to the community at large, and with entries closing this coming Tuesday (October 27), it’s perhaps one more reason to give you that last nudge to join the party.
Photo by EQ Media.
Here’s a look at what’s on tap:
- The theme for the week is Thankful, and in order to combine two forms of giving back and showing gratitude, TerraNova will donate $20 for every volunteer hour to Easterseals Ranch SWFL – a season-long initiative. [Sign up for volunteer shifts here]
- On Thursday, November 12, competitors will participate in a fun charity race in inflatable animal costumes, with teams racing on behalf of Humane Society at Lakewood Ranch, Easterseals Southwest Florida and Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee. The TerraNova Foundation will make donations of $3,000, $2,000 and $1,000 based on the teams’ finishing order.
- On Sunday, November 15, The Pavilion will host Empty Bowls, a Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee charity event sponsored by the TerraNova Equestrian Foundation. Guests can enjoy soup from local restaurants while watching the show jumping competition. Tickets for Empty Bowls are purchased through Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee. [Purchase Empty Bowls tickets]
A special celebration will also be on the schedule for Kamila Rencher, the recipient of this year’s Gabriella Reitmeyer Memorial “Reins of Resilience” Scholarship. The TerraNova family has been honored to celebrate the life and legacy of Gabriella Reitmeyer for the past several years. Gabriella was a passionate young equestrian whose resilience, love of horses and dedication to learning continue to inspire our community.
As part of that continued recognition, the Gabriella Reitmeyer Memorial “Reins of Resilience” Scholarship was created in partnership with the Reitmeyer family and TerraNova Foundation. The scholarship carries Gabriella’s legacy forward by providing a young rider with the opportunity to attend The Stables at TerraNova Riding Academy.
At the Welcome Party for all competitors on Thursday, November 12, Kamila will be recognized, and TerraNova is also contributing $2,500 to a charity of the Reitmeyer’s family’s choosing, and a riding academy camp opportunity in support of the scholarship.
“Mount Myakka,” added to the cross country course in 2024, brought some new terrain change to the grounds at TerraNova, which continues to evolve with the sport. Photo via CrossCountryApp.
As for riders, there is something for everyone at TerraNova, and you’ve also got the privilege of the incoming Olympic cross country course designer (Alec Lochore) at the helm for the Intermediate, 3* and 4* levels. Alec is joined by equally fierce designer Mogie Bearden-Muller, who’s in charge of the Prelim and below as well as the 1* and 2* courses. Every National level through Intermediate is offered, so your whole barn can tag along for the fun no matter what level they’re competing. While we don’t yet know what we’ll fine on Alec and Mogie’s courses this year, you can take a peek at what they’ve created in the past on CrossCountry App here.
TerraNova also boasts top-quality officiating, welcoming the likes of Peter Gray, fresh off the FEI World Championships in Aachen this summer, two-time Olympic judge Marilyn Payne and Bromont’s own Sue Ockenden for this year’s event. It’s quality and the spirit of community that drives the team at TerraNova, which has quickly established itself as a must-see on any rider’s list.
You can find more information or send your entry in here. Spectator information can be found here.
This article is brought to you in partnership with TerraNova Equestrian Center as one of the event’s Media Partners.
