January 15, 2026 – Gladstone, NJ – A jump from the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, a private NFL suite, FEI World Championships VIP hospitality, and a luxury yacht cruise are just some of the outstanding auction items that will be offered at the United States Equestrian Team (USET) Foundation’s West Coast benefit gala, “A Night for Aachen,” on Friday, January 30, 2026. Guests will be treated to an exceptional evening at The Palm Club at the Desert International Horse Park in Thermal, California, featuring cocktails, a live performance, dinner, live and silent auctions, dancing, and an unforgettable celebration of excellence, athletic achievement, and patriotic pride.
Buy Tables and Tickets Here
“A Night for Aachen” promises an elevated evening out, with equal parts celebration, inspiration, and insider access to the world of elite equestrian sport. It represents an unparalleled opportunity to support U.S. equestrian athletes on their journey to the 2026 FEI World Championships in Aachen, Germany, and beyond.
At the heart of the event is a one-of-a-kind live showcase from California-based US Equestrian High Performance athletes and equestrian icons, including Olympic jumping silver medalist Karl Cook, triple Olympic dressage bronze medalist Guenter Seidel, noted dressage riders Steven Paulson and Tina Caldwell, and US Equestrian’s 2025 Vaulters of the Year, Kylynn Ghafouri and Emi Yang.
“This is a rare opportunity to be in the room with the athletes who represent our country on the world stage,” said the USET Foundation’s Lisa Munro. “Plus, every ticket purchased and every bid placed directly supports our U.S. riders, drivers, and vaulters as they pursue excellence on the world stage.”
Live Auction Highlights
“A Night for Aachen” guests will have the chance to bid on an exceptional lineup of luxury packages, exclusive items, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, including:
2024 Paris Olympic Games Jump
A centerpiece of the live auction is a jump from the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, offering a chance to own a genuine piece of Olympic history. Designed by Stridefull Jumps for the Games where the U.S. Jumping Team of Karl Cook, Laura Kraut, McLain Ward, and Kent Farrington captured the Olympic silver medal. The fence was created to be jumped, admired, and remembered. It stands at the intersection of Olympic achievement, artistry, and cultural legacy.
Donated by Mihai Simion, Stridefull Jumps
Suite at SoFi Stadium: Los Angeles Chargers or Los Angeles Rams
Experience NFL game day in style with a private suite for 18 guests at SoFi Stadium, home of the Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers. Enjoy premium sightlines and a first-class atmosphere with food and beverages included, plus four Brown Lot parking passes for seamless transit.
Donated by The Meadows Family
FEI World Championships VIP Hospitality
Witness sporting history in the making with two exclusive VIP packages that provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the 2026 FEI World Championships in Aachen, Germany (August 11-23). One package is for week one (dressage, eventing, and vaulting) and the other is for week two (driving, jumping, and para dressage). Both feature Chairman’s Circle hospitality, premium seating, transportation, and accommodation at Hotel Kasteel Bloemendaal.
Donated by the USET Foundation
A Private Chef Experience for 10
Relax and enjoy a luxurious evening in the comfort of your own home as an acclaimed personal chef and professional service staff handle every detail. From preparing a beautifully crafted multi-course meal to setting the table and providing attentive service, your guests will be impeccably cared for throughout the gathering, and your kitchen will be left spotless.
Donated by Nathaniel Neubauer, Contemporary Catering
Newport Beach Harbor Yacht Cruise
Enjoy an exclusive 2.5-hour private cruise for up to 25 adult guests (ages 14+) aboard the stunning 84-foot Ocean Alexander yacht, The Last Hurrah. This fully staffed luxury experience includes food and beverages as you take in stunning views of Newport Harbor’s iconic coastline, historic mansions, and sweeping water vistas. Perfect for entertaining, celebrating a special occasion, or hosting an unforgettable summer gathering, this cruise will create indelible memories.
Donated by the Meadows Family
Silent Auction Preview
Headlining the silent auction will be autographed memorabilia signed by the 2024 Paris Olympic Games silver medal-winning US Jumping Team, along with premium equestrian and lifestyle experiences, including:
- A VIP table for one week at the 2026 Traverse City Horse Shows
- A Ruggable shopping spree
- An opportunity to design a custom Lillie Keenan Flying Changes show coat
- A McLain Ward CWD bridle with an autographed photo… and so much more.
Larissa Ann Live Art
Equestrian artist Larissa Ann will be on site at “A Night for Aachen” creating live art and offering bespoke painted accessories. Stop by to have something customized and support U.S. athletes on the path to international competition. Pre-orders are available here.
Together, these incredible items, generously donated by supporters of the USET Foundation, promise to add excitement to an evening full of spirit and inspiration. Don’t miss the opportunity to help raise vital support for U.S. equestrian athletes as they pursue gold at Aachen and beyond.