Aiken, SC (March 9 , 2012) – For the second year in a row Chester Weber, the eight-time USEF National Four-In-Hand Combined Driving National Champion, donated lessons to the “Salute To Driving” Benefit to support the USET Foundation.

The fundraiser featured a dinner and live auction, as well as clinics, held over three days at Wendy O’Brien’s Trout Walk Farm in Aiken, South Carolina. “This was a wonderful event put on in Aiken to raise money for the USET Foundation. Last year the debut event benefited the country’s High Performance Driving programs for the USET Foundation and raised over $30,000,” Weber said. “I was pleased to be part of the event last year and once again this year.”

Weber said he was also happy to donate lessons to the auction. “I will provide the lessons to the winner during the Live Oak International in March,” Weber said. “Jack Wetzel purchased the tickets for the lesson and gave them to Jacob Arnold. I know Mr. Arnold will enjoy his driving experience at Live Oak.”

Throughout the weekend the “Salute To Driving” event also featured multiple driving clinics with some of the world’s top trainers, a hazard demonstration and clinic, harnessing demonstrations, a carriage exhibit and a Combined Test competition for Preliminary to Advanced drivers. “The entire weekend was a great success and not only raised awareness but also educated the attendees about the discipline of driving,” Weber said.

Weber is a strong supporter of the equestrian community and last year was named to the USET Board of Trustees. The USET Foundation supports equestrian athletes, promotes international excellence and builds for the future of equestrian sports. As one of the leading driver’s in the United States, Weber’s experience — as well as his passion for promoting his sport — has benefitted the USET Foundation Board of Trustees throughout the year. Team Weber currently has their sights set on competing at the Live Oak International, where they hope to earn a ninth USEF Four-In-Hand Championship. Weber has been pleased with his team’s performance throughout 2012 and has driven into the winner’s circle at the Sunshine State CDE and at the Little Everglades CDE.

“I am really looking forward to Live Oak, March 22-25. This is the event’s 20th anniversary, and for the first time we will be hosting an FEI CSI** show jumping in addition to the USEF National Championships for Four-In-Hand horses,” Weber said. “Following Live Oak, my goals include the World Championships in Riesenbeck and the 2014 World Equestrian Games in France.”

For more information on Weber and his combined driving team, visit their website at www.chesterweber.com

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Photo: Chester Weber and his team during the marathon phase at the 2011 Live Oak International. (Photo courtesy of My Elisabeth Weber)