US Equestrian is pleased to share the newly approved specifications for the 2026 Adequan®/USEF Junior Hunter National Championships (JHNC), ratified by the Executive Committee on Monday, September 29, 2025.
The full 2026 JHNC Specifications document is now available [here]. Below are some of the key updates:
Revised Qualification Period
Starting with the 2026 championships, the 12-month qualification window has been shifted forward by one month. The new qualifying period runs from May 1, 2025, through April 30, 2026. While the duration remains the same, this earlier cutoff provides riders and trainers with additional preparation time for the East Coast championship, scheduled for June 17-21, 2026. The West Coast event will be held July 23-26, 2026.
Results earned between May 1 and May 31, 2025, may count toward 2026 qualification—even if those same results were previously applied for the 2025 championships. Qualifying lists for 2026 will be released soon.
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Expanded Qualifying Opportunities
Horses can now also qualify by completing all offered classes (over fences and under saddle) at their respective fence height in junior hunter sections at five USEF-licensed competitions during the qualification period (May 1, 2025 – April 30, 2026).
This new path complements the existing qualification methods:
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Being named champion or reserve champion in a USEF Premier, National, or Regional rated junior hunter section during the qualification period.
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Ranking in the top 10 on the USHJA Zone Horse of the Year Channel I or Channel II lists for the 2026 competition year (from December 1, 2025, through April 30, 2026).
Rider Restrictions for the 3’3” Championship
For the 2026 JHNC, riders competing in the 3’3” divisions must not have competed at the 1.30m jumping height or higher at any point from the start of the qualification period through the conclusion of the championships.
Statement from US Equestrian Leadership
“We appreciate the dedicated efforts of the USEF Hunter Committee and the USHJA Junior Hunter Task Force in crafting qualification standards that enhance the championship experience for competitors, trainers, and competition management,” said US Equestrian CEO Bill Moroney. “The Adequan®/USEF Junior Hunter National Championships remain prestigious events that celebrate the finest young talent and equine athletes in the hunter discipline. By expanding qualification pathways and promoting fair competition, we aim to strengthen the tradition and success of the JHNC for 2026 and beyond.”
