Volunteering at TerraNova: Discover Horse Shows Behind the Scenes

by Ruby Tevis

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to put on a horse show, consider spending a day as a volunteer. Volunteers are the backbone of any horse show and are an integral part of the events at TerraNova Equestrian Center. From greeting visitors to working hands-on during competitions, volunteers have the opportunity to apply their own skills or learn something completely new.

Samantha Herrig, TerraNova’s Co-Director of Volunteers says volunteering is for everybody. “Anyone who is interested and wants to help make the show a positive experience for all can sign up to volunteer,” Herrig said. “We have had teens volunteer in the past; it’s a great way to earn volunteer hours needed for school or extracurricular activities.”

Herrig has a passion for giving back to the community and volunteering, and she enjoys matching volunteers with jobs that suit them. “Not all volunteers need to have horse experience,” she said. “We have many positions that require no horse experience and a variety of positions that we can train and prep you for success the day of.”

While volunteers can assist throughout the season, Herrig says the greatest need for volunteers is during The Event at TerraNova, the three-day eventing competitions that are held in the spring and fall. Volunteers are needed throughout the week to prepare for the competition and work through each phase, including dressage, cross-country, and show jumping.

During the cross-country phase, Herrig needs many volunteers in the role of ‘jump judge’. “Essentially, a ‘jump judge’ volunteer is stationed at a jump where they record and report when the rider and their horse clear the jump,” Herrig said. “This position can be done with or without horse experience, as we will strategically place you at a jump that you feel comfortable at.”

In addition to working hands-on during the horse shows, volunteers can work in hospitality positions.

TerraNova enlists volunteers to help with parking, shuttle driving, and ticket-taking. One of these stellar hospitality volunteers is Giovanna McGrath, who is now on her second season of volunteering at TerraNova Equestrian Center.

“The first job I had was greeting incoming cars and taking admission. After that, I started helping inside the VIP area selling tickets and helping people find their tables,” McGrath said. “I love this role because I love being around people, and it is fun to see locals and friends come by.”

McGrath rode horses through her teenage years, and she enjoys being in the atmosphere at TerraNova, surrounded by horses and riders. “There is so much energy at the competitions, and watching the riders and horses gives me something to smile about all day!” she said. Despite the fun she has volunteering, she always takes her role very seriously.

“Part of my job in the VIP area is making sure that everybody in the pavilion has their wristband on. One time, the CEO walked by without a wristband, and I almost stopped him from coming in!” McGrath laughed. “I take my job very seriously—nobody is exempt! You must give it 100% and remember why you’re doing what you’re doing.”

Being part of a team, making memories, and learning something new is what volunteering at TerraNova is all about. Herrig encourages people to volunteer because volunteering is “a fun way to give back, and meaningful to everyone there,” she said. “The events are not possible without our volunteers, and we appreciate them all very much!”