Regular Classes
Special Commonwealth classes (open to non Vaulters, pony club, etc)
Adaptive Athletes Classes
Especially for Spectators and visiting kids:
Pool noodle horse decorating station and “stick horse” riding show at lunch!
COMMONWEALTH EQUESTRIAN GAMES - VAULTING
GENERAL INFORMATION
July 23-26, 2026
Virginia Horse Center- East Complex
487 Maury River Rd Lexington,VA
Judge: Kayt Shaffer, EVUSA “r” Washington DC
Judge: Toni Amoroso, CA
Competition Manager: Kim V Beisecker Competition Secretary: Irena Shaffer
Safety Manager: Wayne Beisecker
EMT, Farrier, and Veterinarian: on site
NOTE: This EVUSA Recognized Competition is part of a multi discipline equestrian competition event. While EVUSA Vaulting Rules apply to this competition, participants will need to be aware that there are many aspects of this competition which vary from most EVUSA competitions.
Prize Lists for EVUSA Recognized Competition and the Prize List for Commonwealth and Modified Classes will be available.
YOU DO NOT NEED TO BE A RESIDENT OF VIRGINIA TO PARTICIPATE!
For more information or questions: Commonwealth Vaulting
WHAT ARE THE COMMONWEALTH GAMES?
For more than 35 years, the Commonwealth Games, as a part of the National Congress of State Games, has been an annual event that is open to athletes of all ages and skill levels. From archery to wrestling, this event offers sports competition venues for 40+ different Olympic and Pan American sports. The 2026 Commonwealth Games will include the equestrian sports of: Working Equitation, Dressage, Eventing, Western Dressage, Games, Combined Driving, Ranch/Trail, Hunter, Jumper, Special Equestrians, and Vaulting. All equestrian events will be held at VHC as a combined event!
With the tagline of "Inspiring wellness & competition," the Games represent the true spirit of amateur athletics. For some, this celebration of sport is a stepping stone for following the dream of representing the United States in the Olympic Games. For others, the Games are a place to compete in a favorite pastime.
The Games teach values such as teamwork and good sportsmanship, which will also be reflected in the vaulting competition. Teams will register with 3 to 7 competitors (do not need to be from the same EVUSA Club). These competitors will compete in individual horse classes within the Recognized Competition (at any level listed on the class list). These individuals will then exhibit their teamwork through the presentation of a Squad Freestyle, judged to specific Commonwealth rules. These teams have the opportunity to compete for the Commonwealth medals!
Individuals not participating in the team competition are welcome to participate as individuals and prizes will be awarded for each class.
Vaulters have the opportunity to compete (or just watch) in the other disciplines and participate in the Opening Ceremony, Bonfire and BBQ, Medal ceremony, and other special events.