Thursday News & Notes from Virginia Horse Center Foundation

Make sure to thank a volunteer this weekend — or better yet, sign up for a shift yourself! Events like the much-loved Millbrook Horse Trials in New York, happening this weekend, rely on the contributions of volunteers. You can always see what’s coming up in your area and sign up for shifts, view training materials and see your volunteer points by checking out EventingVolunteers.com.

U.S. Weekend Preview

Millbrook H.T. (NY): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring]

Hunt Club Farms H.T. (VA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Stone Gate Farm Mini Trial (OH): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring]

Major International Events

Burgham International (UK): [Website] [Timetable] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Live Stream]

FEI Eventing Nations Cup – Avenches (Switzerland): [Website] [Entries] [Timing & Scoring] [Live Stream]

News & Reading

Starting December 1, all horses competing in USEF-licensed or -endorsed competitions must be microchipped—a rule expansion aimed at improving biosecurity and traceability. In a recent Chronicle of the Horse opinion piece, contributor Christina Keim argues the new rule could go even further, calling for a USEF-run database of former owners or breeders willing to help horses in need of a safe landing after their competitive careers. Read it here.

This year’s Five Points Horse Trials at Carolina Horse Park will feature the venue’s first-ever USEA Classic Three-Day Event, bringing the long-format tradition to the forefront at the Beginner Novice and Novice levels. In this article, Cassidy Sitton celebrates the return of the endurance-heavy format, highlighting the educational value and horsemanship skills riders gain through the multi-phase challenge. From jogs to steeplechase to vet box strategy, the Classic Three-Day is a throwback worth prepping for. Find out what to expect here.

Equestrian Canada (EC) is navigating major financial pressures due to stagnant government funding and rising operational costs, but continues to make significant progress. A recent Horse Sport article outlines EC’s innovations, including a new national rankings system, expanded coaching and officiating programs, and the launch of a national horse ID initiative. With the help of AI-driven efficiencies and new fundraising strategies, EC is working to maintain momentum—highlighted by the qualification of full Olympic and Paralympic teams for Paris 2024, a milestone not seen in over two decades. Read more updates here.

Sponsor Corner: Virginia Horse Center

Whether you’re prepping for your first event or just looking to build confidence with your horse, the VHC Eventing Starter Trials & Cross-Country Schooling Weekend is the perfect place to get your feet wet—or your boots muddy.

Taking place August 23–24, 2025, at the stunning Virginia Horse Center in Lexington, this weekend is tailor-made for education, experience, and ease. Saturday offers open schooling across all three phases, with trainers welcome to guide riders through dressage, show jumping, and a beautifully designed cross-country course by Tyson Rementer. Sunday’s unrecognized Horse Trials and Combined Tests offer Starter through Training level, plus CT and Dressage Test of Choice options—all in a low-pressure setting built to support riders’ goals.

At just $145 for the full Horse Trial and $75 for the CT, this weekend delivers top value at one of the region’s most rider-friendly venues. Come for the experience, stay for the views—and bring your barnmates for a fun, supportive weekend you won’t want to miss.

🎯 Enter now at EventEntries.com
📅 Entries close Tuesday, August 12 (late entries accepted through August 18, space permitting)
🔗 Learn more at vahorsecenter.org

Video Break

Olympic champion Julia Krajewski gives us some quick cross country tips — including the value of a neckstrap!

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