Isabel F. de Szinay Memorial Dressage Show
 

The VADA Charlottesville board recently convened via Zoom to evaluate the feasibility of hosting our 2025 June show at Commonwealth Park in Culpeper, Virginia, as we have done for several years. The weather last June was exceptionally pleasant, and with the facility's recent major improvements, it was an enjoyable experience. We are eagerly anticipating our 2025 show, which will include the breed show. 

 

Our discussion on Zoom centered on the new and increased price structure Commonwealth Park is offering for 2025. It also delved into the major lack of member volunteers supporting the show and our need to hire a crew (4 people) before and after the show to help us set up the dressage arenas, take them down after the show, wash and re-stack them in the trailer.  We also discussed member volunteerism being down for the show itself causing us to also reach outside to non -member friends to volunteer on show day. Entries sadly were low this year, as well. This issue seems to be a trend in the last few years all over Virginia. 

 

Due to the increased cost structure, the insufficient volunteer participation for the event, and the potential for low attendance in 2025, we regrettably made the decision to cancel our show at Commonwealth Park for that year.

 

The board plans to find a new venue in 2026. If member interest is strong, we'll continue offering a licensed USEF/USDF dressage show for the community and chapter members. 

 

Should you have any suggestions regarding potential venues or general feedback concerning the cancellation of the 2025 event, or the possibility of hosting a licensed USEF/USDF show in 2026, please feel free to email Nancy Lowey at nlowey@rocketmail.com.