Building any college equestrian arena will have its own set of unique variables to take into account. Whether your school's equestrian curriculum involves a few special events and practices, or hosts major competitive events, you need to use an arena builder who can assess and understand your specific needs based on the location of the arena.
The most important phase of building an equestrian arena is the design phase. Never should you use a company that employs a cookie cutter, "one size fits all" philosophy towards arena construction. The product will never turn out well when this route is taken. Your college has a responsibility to give the students the safest and most utilitarian space available for your budget and location, while also keeping in mind that mistakes cost time and money. That's why using someone who understands the challenges involved in building an arena and can custom tailor one to your needs is the only way to go.
Consider drainage. Proper drainage is one of the most important features of any equestrian arena. You only really get one chance to get it right and thats only going to happen based on careful consideration of your specific application. Proper planning of the drainage system by experts in the field will make for smooth construction and confidence that the end product will do exactly what its supposed to. Inadequate or poorly thought out drainage systems can really cause a whole lot of headaches during and after construction. Using someone's prefab application could be a big mistake.
Then there's the proper footing for your particular location and use. A professional experienced company will evaluate what it is you intend to use your arena space for and will provide the right mix of footing for the horse and riders who will use the space. For example, using the right mixture of GGT material and sand is key to ensuring horse and rider safety. Once again, you don't want to settle for a formula that takes on that "one size fits all" strategy. Each situation is different.
Building a college equestrian arena is a big undertaking, but when you contract with a company that owns it own equipment, are experts in drainage and footing and has the man power to handle arena design and building of any size, then you can rest assured that your investment will be solid and your college will be proud of their new arena.
To find out more, or to get started designing your new equestrian arena, contact us and we'll be happy to help you through the entire process.