The Virginia Equestrian Commonwealth Games is coming to the Virginia Horse Center July 23–26.
This event brings 11 different equestrian disciplines together for a multi-sport team competition in an Olympic-style format.
The all-inclusive show allows youth and adult amateurs to experience the camaraderie and festivities of a world-class championship. “Thanks to a generous grant from the Virginia Horse Industry Board, we are able to offer this experience at a state-of-the-art facility for schooling show prices, making a competition of this caliber accessible to everyone,” said coorganizer Gammon Castellvi-Cross. Sports include combined driving, dressage, eventing, hunters, jumpers, mounted games, ranch and trail, gaited dressage, working equitation, vaulting and special adaptive classes.
The event is free and features: - Opening and closing ceremonies and the lighting of the torch.
- Medal presentations by Olympic dressage judge Brian Ross and Penny Ross.
- A vendor fair with over 100 participants and various food options.
Opening ceremonies take place Thursday at 5 p.m. Friday. Saturday and Sunday mornings are competition days. Closing ceremonies start at 1 p.m. on Sunday.
“We’re thrilled to host an event where the average competitor can feel special and learn more about our beloved sports,” said Castellvi-Cross. “It’s about bringing our horse community together to grow at all levels and exposing the public to the magical world of horses.”
