Are equestrian sports your passion? If you answered yes, prepare yourself for a thrilling year in horse events 2023.

From Grand Prix show jumping to dressage competitions, there are plenty of major equestrian events to look out for in 2023. These events showcase the sport's beauty, strength and excitement.

Here are some of the most popular equestrian events in the US.

Major Events and Their Significance

Equestrian sport is an exciting and thrilling sport enjoyed by millions worldwide.

Major events play a vital role in promoting and advancing horse sports and games, and in the United States, there are many upcoming equestrian events to look out for in 2023.

#1 Longines Global Champions Show Jumping

The Longines Global Champions Show Jumping is one of the most prestigious equestrian events to look out for in 2023. The show jumping event is held annually and features some of the world’s best show jumpers competing for a massive prize. It is hosted in various cities around the world, with the 2023 calendar available on their website.. 

#2: US Dressage Championships

This annual event brings together the best American dressage riders and horses to compete for titles in the Grand Prix, Intermediaire 1, and Young Rider divisions. The US Dressage Championships also serves as a qualifying event for the international dressage competition, the FEI World Cup.

#3: The American Quarter Horse Association World Championships

The AQHA World Championships features more than 20 classes in various disciplines, such as cutting, reining, showmanship, and Western pleasure. Riders from around the world will battle for titles in this amazing event, ranging in age and ability level.

#4 USEF Eventing National Championships

The USEF Eventing National Championships is one of the major equestrian events to look out for in 2023. Held biennially, this event brings together the best riders and horses from across the United States to compete over three days of dressage, show jumping, and cross-country courses. This year’s event will be held at the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill in October.

#5: USHJA Championships

The USHJA Championships are annual equine events that offer various disciplines for riders and horses of all abilities. The event includes classes in Hunter, Jumper, and Equitation divisions and is hosted by the United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA). Athletes race all year long to earn a spot at this elite event.

Cross-Country Event

Cross-country is one of the three disciplines in equestrian competition, alongside dressage and showjumping. It involves a difficult course that has natural barriers that the rider and horse must navigate, such as:

• Logs
• Ditches
• Water jumps
• Fences
• Combinations

Cross-country events test the horse and rider's endurance, bravery, and strategy and record horse riding mistakes. Equestrian aficionados from all over the world participate in it because it is an exhilarating and adrenaline-inducing sport.

Dressage Event

Dressage tests the horse and rider capacity to synchronize a set of planned moves, creating a beautiful and graceful performance.

These movements include:

• Flying changes
• Piaffes
• Half-passes
• Extended trots

The goal is for the horse and rider to appear as one, creating a powerful yet elegant performance, including horse riding posture.

Showjumping Event

Show jumping events showcase the horse and rider's skill in jumping obstacles, such as fences, walls, gates, ditches, water jumps, and combinations.

Showjumping tests the horse's bravery, agility, and obedience. The objective is for the horse and rider to complete the course as quickly as possible without any faults.

These events are a great way to witness some of the most talented horses and riders competing at their highest level. Showjumping events can be found globally, from major international competitions to local club shows.

Top Ranked US Equestrian Riders

The United States has produced some of the best equestrian athletes in the world.

The following is a list of the top American riders to keep a keen eye on, in 2023.

1. Beezie Madden: A four-time Olympic medalist, Beezie Madden is one of the most successful show jumping riders in the world.
2. Laura Kraut: With numerous grand prix victories and major international wins, Laura Kraut is one of the most decorated showjumping riders in the US.
3. Phillip Dutton: Having won two Olympic medals, Philip Dutton is one of the top eventing riders in the US.
4. Katherine Bateson-Chandler: A successful international dressage rider, Katherine Bateson-Chandler is a rising star in the equestrian world selected for several US teams.
5. Kent Farrington: An Olympic gold medalist in show jumping, Kent Farrington is one of the most successful riders in the US. With titles from several global events, Farrington's skill can never be underestimated.

A Champions’ Essential Equipment

The appropriate gear is necessary for the horse and rider to compete in equestrian activities to prevent horse riding injuries. Horse tack like bridles and saddles must be made from quality materials and be properly fitted.

The saddle must fit properly and provide a good balance for the rider. It should also have enough padding to protect the horse's back against any pressure from the rider. The bridle should fit comfortably around the horse's head and be adjustable. If using a bit, this must be chosen based on your horse’s needs.

Equestrian Gear

Equestrian events are a compelling and exciting way to experience the beauty and power of horses. With so many major events to look out for in 2023, horse enthusiasts are in for a treat.

Prepare for a memorable year of equestrian events by gearing up. Country & Stable has all the essentials for equestrian needs. From boots and spurs, to matingales and girthss, we offer top-quality products at affordable prices. Check out our selection today.