Dear Area III Members,
Area III kicked off the year with its Strategic Planning Meeting for 2026, where the Council reviewed the past season and began setting priorities for the year ahead. These discussions focused on strengthening our sport, better serving our members, and supporting the people and programs.
As the largest USEA Area in the country, with over 11,000+ starters annually, Area III has a responsibility to lead with transparency, inclusivity, and thoughtful planning. With that in mind, the Council unanimously approved four guiding goals for 2026:
Improving communication and transparency across the area
Supporting organizers and volunteers whose dedication makes our events possible
Expanding growth and development opportunities for riders at all levels, from Starter through Advanced
Creating scholarship opportunities to improve access to training and competition, particularly for youth, rural riders, and developing trainers
2026 Year-End Awards Program Updates
In alignment with these goals, the Council has approved updates to the Area III Year End Awards Program for the 2026 competition year (December 1, 2025 – November 30, 2026):
The program is a standalone Area III program administered solely by the Area III Council
Opt-in is required for all horse-and-rider combinations via: Opt-In Form (Please fill out form for participation by October 16th.
A minimum of four (4) volunteer hours at USEA-recognized Area III events is required for awards eligibility
Riders unable to meet the volunteer requirement may choose a $35 opt-out option, with funds reinvested into Area III events and initiatives needed to continue running recognized shows. We strongly encourage everyone to volunteer. Those that have not met their 4 hour volunteer hour requirement by November 30th will receive notice with opt-out option invoice.
This update is designed to ensure clarity, fairness, and sustainability while recognizing the volunteers who make our competitions and awards possible. Members are encouraged to review the full 2026 Area III Year End Awards Rules on Area3.org for complete eligibility, scoring, and opt-in details.
Congratulations on 2024 and 2025 Leaderboard Achievements
On behalf of the USEA Area III Council, we want to congratulate all riders who earned Area III Leaderboard recognition during the 2024 and/or 2025 seasons. Your dedication, consistency, and competitive spirit truly represent the best of eventing, and we are proud to recognize your accomplishments.
We also want to sincerely thank you for your patience. Riders who did not receive their 2024 ribbons will be sent those ribbons, along with all ribbons for the 2025 season. This message serves as our official congratulations for both years, ensuring that all achievements are valued and recognized.
Looking Ahead
The Area III Council is excited for what lies ahead in 2026. With your continued participation, support, and feedback, we will continue to grow our sport, strengthen our community, and provide meaningful opportunities for riders, trainers, organizers, and volunteers alike.
Together, we are building a strong future for Area III and for the sport of eventing.
— The USEA Area III Council