US Equestrian has announced that Traverse City Horse Shows at Flintfields Horse Park in Williamsburg, Michigan, will host the 2026 and 2027 editions of the FEI North American Youth Championships (NAYC) for dressage and jumping. The 2026 competition is scheduled for July 28 to August 2, with the 2027 dates to be confirmed.
The NAYC is the only FEI-sanctioned championship held annually in North America, serving as a vital stepping stone for the continent’s top youth athletes.
“Traverse City in the summer is an incredible place for championship sport,” said Matt Morrissey, Event Director of Traverse City Horse Shows. “The mild climate, spacious venue, and engaged local community make it an ideal destination. We’re excited to welcome back the continent’s most talented young riders and provide a world-class stage for their development.”
The championships will feature:
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FEI Jumping North American Youth Championship
This event offers young athletes the opportunity to compete in a format that mirrors senior international championships. Riders will participate in both team and individual competitions across four divisions:
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Children’s Championship (ages 12–14) – Fence heights up to 1.25m
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Pre-Junior Championship (ages 14–16) – Fence heights up to 1.30m
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Junior Championship (ages 14–18) – Fence heights up to 1.40m
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Young Rider Championship (ages 16–21) – Fence heights up to 1.50m
Teams are organized by USHJA Zones, encouraging regional camaraderie and competition.
FEI North American Youth Dressage Championship
This is the premier youth dressage event in North America, offering team and individual competition opportunities for:
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Children (ages 12–14)
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Juniors (ages 14–18)
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Young Riders (ages 16–21)
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U25 (ages 16–25)
Athletes represent their USDF regions, providing a pathway for young talent to experience high-level international-style competition in a supportive team environment.
