AboutShelley Evans Expertise I would be happy to respond to enquiries in the following disciplines: dressage, working western, hunter, halter (open and IAHA), hack and pleasure. I can also offer assistance with schooling and equitation issues.
Experience Twenty years Class A show circuit including multiple championships.
Organizations CEF, IAHA, BCHC, IALHA
Publications Inside International
Education/Credentials BA, MEd, Teaching Certificate (PDP), CEF Western Level I Coach, provincialy approved Hack, Equitation and Western Judge.
Question Hi, my name is Brian Myers. I am a student at virginia intermont college. We have a barn project where we have to design out own barn and things. One of the objects that I want to have is an indoor arena. The budget for this project is unlimited. The size of this arena will be 125' by 250'. My question to you is, what do you think the best base and the best footing for the arena would be? I plan to not only do flat work in this arena, I also plan to do jumping in it also. If you can get back to me that would be great. Brian Myers
Answer Dear Brian:
Footing is a hugely expensive proposition for an arena of this size- so it's great that your cyber project has no limitations on the budget. Bearing in mind that you're going to have a BIG war between your dressage people and your jumpers (they will NEVER agree on the same type of footing or that they should be using the same ring) my suggestion is a clay base- topped with 30% fine road crush (be careful with this if your arena has a watering system as the water will cause it to set up)30% heavy sand- don't go too fine or you will create dust- and 40% recycled running shoe material. Not only does this substance provide good cushion and keep dust down- it is also environmentally friendly. Also remember that footing is only as good as its maintenance program.
Best wishes with your project.
S. Evans
