A First-Timers Guide to the US Equestrian Open of Eventing

What is the US Equestrian Open of Eventing?

The US Equestrian Open of Eventing is a nation-wide Series that brings together top riders and horses across multiple qualifying events, all building toward a championship final at Morven Park.

Throughout the season, riders compete at Qualifiers at the CCI4*-S level to earn series points. Riders can also qualify for the US Equestrian Open Final which has a $200,000 prize pot. 

The series is part of a broader US Equestrian Open initiative that also includes Dressage and Jumping disciplines, all designed to create a clear season-long storyline for fans to follow.

How does the US Equestrian Open of Eventing Series work?

The series runs across a set of official qualifiers during the 2025–2026 season.

At each qualifier:

• Riders earn points based on their finishing position
• The number of points available depends on how many starters are in the class (see image below)
• Points accumulate across the season
• A leaderboard tracks standings

Whoever accumulates the most points by the end of the Series wins $25,000, with 2nd place getting $15,000 and receiving $10,000.

Check our this year’s leaderboard here: https://us.equestrian-hub.com/public/championship/eventing/2

When and where are the next US Equestrian Open eventing qualifiers?

At the time of writing, the next two qualifiers are:

• Bouckaert International in Fairburn, Georgia will take place from March 5th 
• Carolina International in Raeford, North Carolina on March 12th 

A full list of 2025–2026 qualifiers is below.

What happens at a typical eventing qualifier?

Eventing is a three-phase competition, typically run over three days. All qualifiers are held at the CCI4*-S level, with most following this order: dressage first, then show jumping, and finally cross country. The final result combines penalties from all three phases with the lowest score winning.

How do riders qualify for the US Equestrian Open Final?

Riders qualify by completing at least one Series Qualifier with a MER. A MER is a Minimum Eligibility Requirement. It means the rider and horse must complete the competition within specific performance standards across all three phases.

To achieve a MER at four-star:

• Dressage: Score no more than 45 penalty points (55% or better)
• Show jumping: Finish with no more than 16 jumping penalties
• Cross country: Jump clear at the obstacles (no more than one frangible device activation or one missing flag allowed) and finish no more than 75 seconds over the optimum time

In simple terms, a MER proves that a combination can complete the level safely and competitively across all three phases.

The Final is held at CCI4*-L level, which is a longer format competition and a true championship test at one of the best eventing venues in the country.

Where is the US Equestrian Open Final of Eventing held?

The US Equestrian Open Eventing Final takes place at Morven Park. The 2026 Final will be held on the 8th-11th of October, continuing its role as the championship destination for the Series.

How can I watch the US Equestrian Open live?

Fans can follow the US Equestrian Open in several ways:

• USEF Network: Many qualifiers and the Final are streamed live and for free on the USEF Network.
• Local Event Streaming: Some venues provide their own livestream coverage

What other resources are available to follow along?

Official Fan Guides: Each qualifier has a dedicated US Equestrian Open Fan Guide available on the Open website. These guides highlight key storylines, leading contenders, and relevant numbers to help fans understand what’s at stake.

Weekly Articles: A new article is published on this website every week, covering previews, reviews, leaderboard movement, and standout performances across the Series.

Social Media: Follow the US Equestrian Open Instagram and Facebook page for event images, live updates, and season highlights.

The US Equestrian Open Podcast Stay up to date with preview and review episodes for every qualifier, plus interviews with leading contenders and top competitors throughout the Series.

This week's episode:

Can I attend a qualifier or the final in person?

Yes! Attending in person gives you the opportunity to watch all three phases up close and experience the horses and riders at ground level.

Check the event’s official website for daily schedules and ticket information. Most qualifiers do not require tickets, but it’s always worth confirming in advance so you can plan ahead.

Do I need to understand all of eventing to follow the Open?

No. Even experienced equestrian fans may be new to the Open format. The series is designed to make the sport easier to follow by:

• Tracking points
• Creating a leaderboard
• Highlighting contenders
• Building toward a defined final

If you are new, start with the Fan Guide. If you are experienced, follow the podcast and deep dive articles.

Why should I follow the US Equestrian Open?

Because it turns standalone events into one season-long championship race.

You can follow who’s climbing the leaderboard, who needs points, and who will qualify for the final at Morven Park. Real-time standings create clear storylines, and the $200,000 finale—broadcasted on ESPN and the USEF Network—brings added stakes and visibility.

It’s elite competition, on home soil, with a narrative you can follow from start to finish.