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A young equestrian jumps a horse over a row of pink flowers during an outdoor event. The rider wears traditional attire, and the background features grass and other participants.
Youth Programs

US Equestrian’s Youth Programs encourage young riders through education, scholarships, and recognition, introducing them to diverse breeds and disciplines while supporting their growth and dedication to equestrian sport.

Interscholastic Programs

The US Equestrian Interscholastic Athlete Program recognizes students in grades 5 through 12 for their commitment to equestrian sport, allowing them to earn varsity-style letters based on riding hours or competition participation across any breed or discipline.

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Learn to Ride

If your child would like to take riding lessons but you don’t have horse experience, it can be hard to know where to begin the search for the right instructor. Locate a trainer certified through the USDF Instructor/Trainer Program, USEA Instructors' Certification Program (ICP), USHJA Trainer Certification Program, American Riding Instructors Association (ARIA), or Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA). These organizations are affiliates or alliance partners of the USEF. However, the certified instructors are independent entities and are not agents of USEF.

This link is provided purely as a service and such information does not represent an endorsement or recommendation, (implied or otherwise) of the listed instructors.

For additional information, visit our online Learning Center, which includes such videos as "Your First Horseback Riding Lesson" and "Your First Horse Show," which are both available to members and non-members.

Three people stand outdoors with a horse that has a light mane and bridle. One person pets the horse’s face while the others stand nearby. The background features green grass and a fence.

Education Partners

US Equestrian Education Partners connect scholastic and collegiate programs nationwide to expand participation and elevate academic and athletic pathways in equestrian sport.

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Kids Club

Is your child passionate about horses? We can help them pursue that passion!
By joining our Kids Club, you will receive quarterly emails packed with resources to help your child learn more about horses, including:

  • Themed coloring pages
  • Fun activity pages and ideas centered around horses
  • Video content for beginner and young riders
  • Fun facts and hilarious horsey jokes
  • And so much more!
Sign Up Today
Three people walk a horse down a tree-lined path on a sunny day. The person in the center holds the reins, while the others walk alongside. Green grass and trees border the path in the background.

Alliance Partner Youth Programs

US Equestrian maintains a partnership with United States Pony Club, which is a the largest equine educational organization in North America. Started in 1954 and originally based on Great Britain’s The Pony Club, the curriculum teaches riding skills and the care of horses through mounted and unmounted lessons.

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Grants & Scholarships

In an effort to fulfill the vision of ‘bringing the joy of horse sports to as many people as possible, US Equestrian offers several grants and scholarships for our youth members. US Equestrian believes that our youth is the future of the industry, and helps provide the means for individuals to create solid intellectual and experiential foundations through their education and hands-on learning.

US Equestrian Announces Partnership Renewal with Gotham North for FEI North American Youth Jumping Championships

by US Equestrian Communications Dept. | 7/15/2026

Lexington, Ky. - US Equestrian proudly announces the return of long-term partner Gotham North as the title sponsor of the Gotham North/FEI North American Youth Jumping Championships presented by USHJA (NAYC) . A dedicated supporter of the championship for over 10 years, Gotham North has continued to be major contributor to the FEI North American Youth Championships. The Championships offer an exciting opportunity for athletes (Children through Young Riders) to compete against their peers in a...

US Equestrian Announces U25 Teams for 2026 FEI North American Youth Dressage Championships presented by USDF

by US Equestrian Communications Dept. | 7/14/2026

Lexington, Ky. – US Equestrian is pleased to announce the combinations who will represent three different U.S. U25 Dressage Teams at the FEI North American Youth Dressage Championships presented by USDF , set to take place from July 27 - August 2, 2026, in Traverse City, Mich. The FEI North American Youth Dressage Championships presented by USDF (NAYC) is the premier international championship in North America for children (ages 12-14), juniors (ages 14-18), young riders (ages 16-21), and...

Plan Ahead for 2026 FEI North American Youth Championships: Book Travel and Accommodations Today!

by US Equestrian Communications Dept. | 6/23/2026

Traverse City, Mich. – Athletes, families, and supporters planning to attend the 2026 FEI North American Youth Championships (NAYC) are encouraged to make travel arrangements and secure accommodations as soon as possible, as the Traverse City area is a popular summer vacation destination with limited inventory. ©US Equestrian Traverse City offers a variety of lodging options to suit every budget, team, and travel style. Traverse City Horse Shows has partnered with several local...