The following was originally published in US Eventing, the online publication of the United States Eventing Association (USEA), as part of a partnership between STRIDER and the USEA. As part of our commitment to diversity, enabling access, and building capacity throughout the industry we are pleased to provide this content to benefit the sport of eventing.
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As eventing competitors, you know how demanding the sport can be. Three phases (often in one day!) means there’s quite a lot to think about, tons to prepare for, and there are a lot of people involved in making everything run smoothly. A key player in making any USEA-recognized event you attend a success is the Technical Delegate (TD).
TDs are without a doubt the unsung heroes of our sport. Not only does your event’s TD ensure the competition runs smoothly, safely, and according to the rules, he or she also makes sure that the courses are fair, the footing is safe, and that riders comply with USEA regulations.
In addition to compliance and enforcement of rules, TDs are responsible for course inspection/approval; safety and risk management, supervising event officials, managing the event schedule, and acting as a competitor liaison. That’s a lot of responsibility!
It’s important to remember that the TD is part of your team, and he or she wants to see you and your horse have as successful and safe an outing as possible.
Team STRIDER recent caught up with Laurie Hudson, owner of Hitching Post Farm in South Royalton, Vermont, and a USEA TD to get her top tips for riders heading to a recognized horse trial to have as smooth, safe, and fun an outing as they can.
Get to Know the Rulebook
“You don’t have to have all the answers, but it’s important to know where to look if you’re unsure,” said Hudson.
Be sure to review the rules and ask questions if something is unclear. Lucky for competitors, the rules are readily accessible via the USEA website here. Don’t forget that safety is an absolute priority and most rules that govern our sport are motivated by a desire to keep horses and their riders safely doing what they love.
Remember the “Why”
While recognizing that competitive endeavors can be stress inducing, Hudson urges competitors at all levels to check in with their why.
“We are all human, and we are all at a competition for the love of the horses and the sport. Even if you aren’t having the best day, please be kind to everyone,” she said.
Remember that cooperation is key. Event officials are acting in the best interest of competitors, horses, and the longevity of the sport. TDs are on your side, and most officials are more than happy to answer any questions you may have, especially if those questions are posed in a professional and courteous manner.
Time Matters
“Give yourself enough time!” urged Hudson. “Know your test, walk your courses, and take the time to figure out where everything is. Your competition will be so much smoother!”
Giving yourself plenty of time may also come in handy if a last minute change comes up. Your TD knows that you’ve likely planned your competition day down to the second. Sometimes ground conditions or unexpected circumstances may require a TD to make a last-minute alteration to the schedule. If that change affects your rides try to remember that these decisions are always made with the best interest of the horses and riders in mind with safety and fairness as key factors.
As we know, eventing is a sport with many, many moving parts. USEA TDs work tirelessly behind the scenes (and out in the middle of the course!) to ensure that everything runs as safely, smoothly, and fairly as possible. We hope these tips help you have a successful next outing!
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