Live Oak International is a family-run show, something that is definitely felt in every aspect of the event – including the atmosphere, which is very friendly and welcoming. Live Oak International is the largest combined driving and showjumping competition in the United States, with Chloe Reid and her uncle Chester Weber holding the reins as event presidents.
Live Oak International is unique in that it is held at the stunning Live Oak Stud, which offers a picturesque setting for world-class equestrian sport on a 5,000-acre property.
The sign pictured above, was placed at the entrance to the arena – to be seen by every rider and driver who entered – and says a lot about this event’s spirit!
Here we look back at our wonderful weekend at Live Oak International.
All photos © Jenny Abrahamsson for World of Showjumping.
Chloe Reid – president of the event – made sure to live up to the message when throwing her ribbon to one of the young fans watching.
The show started with the trot-up at sunrise. Here Daniel Coyle's Legacy...
... and Chloe Reid's Crossover.
The surroundings are just stunning.
And there was plenty of space to handwalk.
If every show...
...would be like this!
Live Oak International is so much more than showjumping, with all kinds of driving competitions; from the youngest...
... to the professionals.
Chester Weber – also president of the event – won the FEI 3* Driving Marathon Horse Team class.
Daniel Coyle and Incredible checking out Saturday's Driving Marathon.
The KWPN Dutch Harness Horses were also in action.
The warm-up is probably one of the most beautiful in the world, surrounded by the huge Live Oaks covered with Spanish moss.
The trees offered much needed shadow in the heat.
Riding from the stable to the arena, also surrounded by the stunning Live Oaks.
Rene Dittmer's helmet gave a perfect reflection of this beautiful place.
Katherine Dinan and the stunning Dijon Terdoorn Z.
All smiles from Aaron Vale, who had a busy weekend both competing himself and helping his students.
Alexandra Crown and Doumont delivered a fantastic round in Saturday's Grand Prix, only to have the last fence down.
Gabriela Reutter's Castle OJ decided to try out the Spanish moss on the Live Oaks.
Kama Godek and Conny.
Kent Farrington's Toulayna out for a stroll.
Course designer Olaf Petersen Jr. taking a well deserved break in the shadow after another class of great sport.
Time for the prize giving.
Ahead of the feature classes, it was time for the national anthem as well as the American flag.
This was the last year Live Oak International hosted a leg in the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup series. As of 2025, their neighbours at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala will be the new hosts. We really do hope Live Oak International will continue with international showjumping in the future too, as a boutique event like this with such an authentic atmosphere is really needed.
Then