Redefined Equestrian Horse Trials Manages a Successful Run Thanks to the New ORCA Program from the USEA Foundation
The Organizer’s Relief and Competition Assistance Program (ORCA) was announced at the USEA Annual Meeting & Convention in Seattle, Washington, last December. The program is designed to assist organizers who have experienced a disaster or catastrophe that has impacted their ability to run their competition.
ORCA has already sprung into action to assist one event. The Redefined Equestrian Horse Trials, held in Fort Collins, Colorado, experienced severe flooding damage on July 23 that resulted in the loss of portable cross-country jumps, major damage to footing and other equipment.
They were able to run their Oct. 11 horse trials this year after receiving a grant from the ORCA program, which allowed for repairs that otherwise may not have happened. “It was a huge relief to know that I could cover the costs of some of these repairs,” said Daina Kaugars, the organizer of Redefined Equestrian. “We are a smaller event, and entry fees only go so far to sustain what we do. This $5,000 grant was a major help in making sure we were able to run this fall.”
ORCA is a voluntary program that organizers can join. Anyone can donate to help the program, and in doing so, help the organizers in our sport. If the USEA Foundation receives $20,000 in donations in 2025, an anonymous donor has pledged to match that $20,000 at year end. Help is needed to reach that goal Organizers need to enroll by Nov. 30 to gain access to the program for next year. More information can be found here.
About the USEA Foundation
The fundamental mission of the USEA Foundation is to protect and preserve the sport of eventing for future generations and to provide support for the core educational, safety, and equine welfare programs of the USEA. In addition, the Foundation administers educational grants for riders with the intent of preparing them to reach their goals. Learn more about the USEA Foundation at www.useafoundation.org.
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