Hello!
I have always wanted to compete at the aecs, and this year is my most realistic year that I could qualify. This requires a large amount of money and effort and I’m not sure if it’s really worth it. For anyone who has ever attended aecs- is it worth the trip? What is so different about it from any other event. Thanks!
You may want to check out this thread where this subject was discussed a few months ago:
https://www.chronofhorse.com/forum/f…-going-to-aecs
Basically the answer is some said “yes”, some said “no”. It is a very personal decision. For some it was their bucket list achievement, others said “meh”. Only you know the answer for you 
In my opinion, yes- I went in 2015 when the AEC’s were in Texas. I finished 7th in my division and was thrilled. This year I went and ended up withdrawing before XC due to a silly spook and slip on the way out to XC that made my mare sore. It truly is a special event!
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So I replied to the thread a few months ago, but I’ll add my two cents here as well. I decided to go, and had a great time. It was definitely a learning experience, but most meaningful was having a really great cross country round on a challenging course. The thing that really makes me grateful I decided to have that experience with my horse is that he colicked a week after we returned home. End of season. While I’m so fortunate that he survived surgery and is making progress in his recovery, it may be a long while before we’re in a place that makes AECs a realistic goal again, if ever. I also got the time to talk to so many passionate people during down time at the show, which isn’t the norm at the 1-days. I wouldn’t do it every year, but I’m glad I went this year.
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I had so much fun at the AECs. I went to have the experience of riding at KY, running through the head of the lake, and hang out with a whole of of people I only see at horse shows. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d be competitive, and yet we won money and prizes and the TIP championship for our division. Even without the competitive success, I would go again. It’s a destination-type event, a good goal for the year, and a good prep for a move-up to the next level. I do plan to return in 2020 if I can qualify because it’s in a convenient location, probably only a twice-in-a-lifetime opportunity (it may go to Montana or California or who knows where next).
I went in 2015 when it was at Texas Rose Horse Park and I absolutely loved it! Can’t wait to go back as long as it’s close enough.
I’m in California and qualified last year. I didn’t go and when I was watching the live stream I was so bummed at myself for not even entertaining the idea. A friend of mine and I decided if we both qualify this year we will go out together (save on expenses).
I would LOVE if they alternated the venue every other year. I’m not sure if there’s a place in California that could stable 900+ horses (Galway, maybe? But I find their XC course to be on the softer side IMO). Montana would be great as well. It’s still a trek from California but certainly better than hauling all the way out to Kentucky!
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I haven’t had a horse for a while, but I did go when it was at TX Rose, and it was one of the highlights of my eventing experience. I volunteered last year (as a fence judge and score runner XC) and it was SO EXCITING. I would give a lot to be able to ride on that XC field, and to jump IN THE FREAKING ROLEX STADIUM. So for me, it would be worth it, especially at the KY Horse Park (uh, I just have to get out and start eventing again!).
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If you can afford it I don’t think you will regret going. Whether the experience ends up good or bad, I have never regretted going to a championship event that I worked hard to qualify for.
I just started eventing last year and qualified in Novice, but elected not to go. 1. I didn’t have the means to get there, 2. I lived in the Midwest for a few years and have shown in the Rolex ring for jumpers so it didn’t have that “chance of a lifetime” appeal to me.
You’re welcome for that unhelpful response. 
Simply put, yes. It is worth it. IMHO.
