The USEF Combined Driving National Championship for Advanced Four in Hand Horses returns to LOI
Mark your calendars – March 12–15, 2026, the nation’s premier combined driving event returns to the iconic Live Oak Stud in Ocala, Florida.
Ocala, FL. October 30, 2025 – As the only U.S. event to host international combined driving and show jumping on the same grounds, Live Oak International (LOI) stands as a true celebration of equestrian sport, elegance, and community.
Join us as the country’s top drivers compete for elite titles across all divisions, culminating in the USEF Combined Driving National Championship for Advanced Four-in-Hand Horses.
22 and Counting: Will Chester Weber Capture His 23rd USEF Advanced Four-in-Hand Horse Combined Driving National Champion Title on Home Turf at LOI?
Live Oak International’s Co-President Chester C. Weber added another chapter to his legendary career, capturing his 22nd USEF Advanced Four-in-Hand Horse Combined Driving National Champion title at the 2025 USEF Combined Driving National Championships, held at The Tryon International Equestrian Center in Mill Spring, North Carolina last month.
Driving a world-class team of Despardo, Nico Teusje C, Kasper D, Kadora, and Amadeus, Weber delivered a commanding performance across all three phases — dressage, marathon, and cones — to secure another milestone victory and reaffirm his place among the sport’s greats. Stay tuned as Chester and his team prepare to defend their title on home turf this March at Live Oak International.
LOI Welcomes New Director of Driving
Live Oak International is thrilled to welcome April Hardeman as its new Director of Driving.
April has been immersed in the equestrian world her entire life, her passion for combined driving began when she joined Mary Phelps and her team of ponies, competing across the United States and representing the nation at the FEI World Pony Driving Championships multiple times.
Over the past two years, April has become a familiar face behind the scenes as a scorer at ADS, USEF, and FEI Combined Driving competitions. Her attention to detail and deep understanding of the sport have made her an invaluable contributor to events across North America.
“Working on the scoring side of the sport has given me a whole new appreciation for what it takes to make these events successful,” said Hardeman. “Whether grooming, stewarding, or helping manage results, every experience has strengthened my love for driving and for the incredible community behind it. Joining the Live Oak International team truly tops it all… I’m so excited to help bring this one-of-a-kind show to life!”
Having worked closely with the LOI team in 2025, April steps into her new role with first-hand insight into the precision and teamwork required to deliver one of North America’s premier combined driving events. Her proven familiarity with LOI’s unique demands ensures both continuity and innovation as she takes the reins.
“April brings a wealth of experience and a genuine passion for the sport,” said Chester C. Weber, Co-President of Live Oak International. “We’re delighted to have her join our leadership team and help continue LOI’s tradition of excellence in combined driving.”
