Crossword Genius

Flat season without maiden horse (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

eventer

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'horse' is the definition.
(horse competing in equestrian events)

'flat season without maiden' is the wordplay.
I cannot really see how this works, but
'flat' could be 'even' (level) and 'even' is found in the answer.
The remaining letters 'ter' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't understand.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for eventer that I've seen before include "competitive horse" , "versatile horse" , "Showjumper" , "Equestrian horse" , "Sportsman" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.
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