By the time this article is published, USET will or will be about to make available invitations for nomination and nomination applications and materials for the 2000 World Endurance Championships in France, set to take place in August of the coming year. I understand there is anxiety over the perceived mystery of selection. Truthfully, there is little mystery. While, to be honest, the U.S. is the best in the world at endurance, being it and proving it are sometimes different sides of the same coin. To win, and that is the ultimate goal, means being lucky and good.
Timing is everything, geography is everything else, and there is the rub.
Our nominees generally get to the long list as a result of their and their horses steadiness over time and consistent soundness. Additionally, a seasoned rider and horse with significant international experience can make the long list also, when the selectors believe they deserve an opportunity to prove they still have it in them. Of the three general categories just listed, the first group usually are seated directly to the long list. The later two types, and their progeny, require a balancing by the selectors, usually resulting in significant discussion. So, taking time to carefully and completely fill out the nomination form is a priority, a large priority.