The FEI World Equestrian Games Tryon 2018 (WEG) kicked off Tuesday, Sept. 11, at the Tryon International Equestrian Center in North Carolina. The patriotic opening ceremonies showcased the upcoming weeks’ contestants, and the Team USA reiners put on the finishing touches before tomorrow’s first day of competition.
The stands were packed for the Sept. 11 opening ceremonies. • Photo by Kelsey Pecsek Hruska
A paraglider flew in the American flag. • Photo by Kelsey Pecsek Hruska
Team spirit was not in short supply. • Photo by Kelsey Pecsek Hruska
Fans from around the world waved their country’s colors. • Photo by Kelsey Pecsek Hruska
This is the first year for an athlete to represent Argentina in the Reining at the WEG. • Photo by Kelsey Pecsek Hruska
Great Britain has won the second-most individual gold medals (14) in various WEG disciplines. Germany leads with 20. • Photo by Kelsey Pecsek Hruska
Switzerland had an enthusiastic cheering section at the opening ceremonies. • Photo by Kelsey Pecsek Hruska
With the WEG on home soil this year, the crowd went wild when the American flag was carried through the arena during the opening ceremonies. • Photo by Kelsey Pecsek Hruska
Team USA members Custom Made Gun & Cade McCutcheon • Photo by Kelsey Pecsek Hruska
Team USA members FM Shine N Tag Chex & Gabe Hutchins • Photo by Kelsey Pecsek Hruska
Team USA members Heavy Duty Chex & Casey Deary • Photo by Kelsey Pecsek Hruska
With high humidity, Team USA is careful to keep their equine athletes cool and comfortable. • Photo by Kelsey Pecsek Hruska
Familiar faces Mandy & Tom McCutcheon • Photo by Kelsey Pecsek Hruska
It’s game time! • Photo by Kelsey Pecsek Hruska