The Making of a New Tradition: The Story Behind the Series

As we countdown to the launch of the inaugural US Equestrian Open Series, we want to take a moment to share the story behind this ground-breaking initiative. From the initial spark of an idea to the months of planning and preparation, the series represents a true labor of love and a testament to the power of collaboration and shared vision.

Tamie Smith
Tamie Smith

The Vision

The seeds of the US Equestrian Open Series were first planted in conversations among our leadership team, athletes, and stakeholders. There was a growing sense that US Equestrian sport was ready for a new level of competition and exposure - a platform that could showcase our incredible talent, engage new fans, and set the stage for success on the international stage.

At the same time, we recognized the need to create a more sustainable and cohesive structure for high-level competition in the United States. With so many different events and circuits, it could be challenging for athletes to plan their seasons and for fans to follow the action. The idea of a US Equestrian branded series, with a consistent format, top-class venues, and significant prize money, began to take shape. We envisioned a showcase for the very best of US Equestrian sport, a way to raise the bar and create new opportunities for growth and success.

Preparation

Of course, turning that vision into reality was no small feat. It required months of planning, negotiation, and hard work from our dedicated team and partners. From selecting the host venues to securing sponsors, from developing the qualification criteria to promoting the series, every aspect of the US Equestrian Open Series has been carefully considered and crafted.

Throughout the process, we've been guided by a set of core values and goals, primary among them to create a world-class competition experience for athletes and fans alike, as well as:

  • supporting and showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of US equestrians; 
  • engaging new audiences and growing the fan base for equestrian sport in the United States;
  • setting a new standard for excellence and innovation in equestrian competition; and
  • creating a sustainable and cohesive structure for high-level competition in the United States.

As we prepare for the inaugural event of the series in October, we couldn't be more excited about the potential of this transformation.

We're grateful to everyone who has been a part of the journey so far - from our staff and board members to our athletes, owners, and sponsors. It's taken a true team effort to bring the US Equestrian Open Series to life, and we’re only just beginning.

But we also know that the rewards will be immense. The US Equestrian Open Series represents a new era for our sport, a chance to come together as a community and celebrate the very best of what we have to offer. 

The future of US Equestrian sport is bright, and we can't wait to see what unfolds!

Stay Connected
Stay up to date with news and standings of the US Equestrian Open Series on Facebook and Instagram. Follow US Equestrian on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter. Use #USEquestrianOpen.

For media inquiries about the US Equestrian Open Series, please contact Carly Weilminster at cweilminster@usef.org. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Layson Griffin at lgriffin@usef.org.

US Equestrian Open Final Partner Venues

Partner 1Partner 3Partner 2

Sign up for our US Equestrian Open Newsletter

Be the first to receive behind-the-scenes stories, event previews, competition results and much more!

© 2024 US Equestrian. All rights reserved.