The first time Lauren Hester had to leap a water jump she got a little wet, and it wasn't because it was raining. As a junior rider, Hester discovered how intimidating jumping water obstacles can be while riding in the equitation ranks.

"It originally started with liverpools. The first time I jumped one my horse stopped and I fell off," said Hester, of San Diego, Calif. "Ever since then, I've kind of been afraid of them."