Lexington, Ky. – The 2026 USEF Pony Finals presented by Marshall+Sterling is right around the corner and exhibitors and families attending should make note of the upcoming deadlines and additional reminders below. The annual and highly anticipated championship will run from August 4-9, 2026, at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky.
The official 2026 USEF Pony Finals Schedule can be found here.
The official 2026 USEF Pony Finals Prize List can be found here.
Story Submissions Needed
US Equestrian is seeking stories to feature! Do you know a pony who has competed at Pony Finals in the past or will compete this year with a unique story? Is there a person in the pony hunter/jumper community who deserves recognition? Let us know by sending an email to social@usef.org.
Emerson Burr National Test presented by Roode & Riddle Equine Hospital
Emerson Burr Test takers do not have to compete in Pony Finals to be eligible to take the test but must have an active USEF account to participate. Each Emerson Burr winner during Pony Finals will receive a $500 grant to be used towards education expenses, but only Pony Finals participants will be eligible for the grant. Participants are divided into four age groups: 8 and under, 9-11, 12-14, and 15-17. Each participant will take the written test with the four highest scoring individuals in each age group moving on to the hands-on phase. This phase asks each finalist to demonstrate various skills and knowledge ranging from basic to advanced levels. Following the completion of the hands-on test, a winner from each age group will be selected based on his/her horsemanship skills and knowledge.
The written test portion will be available from Tuesday - Thursday from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. EST at the USEF concierge area under the Rolex Tower. The hands-on horsemanship test will take place on Friday, July August 7 from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. EST. The winners from each age group will be awarded on Saturday, August 8.
More information about the Emerson Burr Horsemanship Grant can be found here and those interested can access the study outline here.
Outstanding Pony Parent Award presented by MARS Equestrian
In memory of Gail Cardalico, this trophy is awarded to the individual who has shown the most involvement and support as a parent of a Pony Finals competitor and presented by MARS Equestrian.
We all know a great support team goes into every rider at Pony Finals. Do you know of a parent who goes above and beyond to support their young rider or barn mates? Write to us and let us know why you think this parent is deserving of this award!
Nominations are due July 29, and for more information, click here.
USEF Pony Finals Buttons and Bows Sportsmanship Award presented by Cavali Club
The Buttons N’ Bows Sportsmanship Trophy is awarded to the junior rider who best personifies the high standards and virtues of integrity, sportsmanship, honor, courage, good temper, and unselfishness. Donated by Mr. R. Bates Newton of Versailles, Ky., in memory of Maxine Best, teacher, judge, and longtime friend of Pony Finals.
Do you know someone who has shown a great attitude? Do you know pony kids who help their friends and barn mates during the year? Do you know the rider that deserves to win the Buttons N’ Bows Sportsmanship Award? Write to us and let us know why you think this rider is deserving of this award! Riders must be participating in the 2026 USEF Pony Finals presented by Marshall+Sterling to be eligible to receive this award.
Nominations are due July 29, and for more information, click here.
Besty Fishback Sportsmanship Award
Everyone is encouraged to nominate a Pony Finals exhibitor who they feel is gracious in both winning and losing and shows respect, support, and encouragement to their fellow competitors. If you know a rider who exemplifies the qualities of a good sport, please complete a nomination form during USEF Pony Finals at the concierge table located by the Rolex Stadium.
Nominations will be accepted from August 4 – 7 at the USEF concierge table under the Rolex Tower. More information can be found here on page 11.
Official USEF Pony Finals Merch
In addition to exclusive Official USEF Pony Finals merch offered onsite during the event, competitors and supporters are encouraged to get their personalized Pony Finals merch at ShopUSEF.org. Items in this collection include a customizable official souvenir hat, equestrian jacket, and AP and Pony saddle pads.
More Information
Find all Pony Finals resources and information here. Have questions? Contact [email protected].