As the USEF Pony Finals presented by Collecting Gaits Farm is well underway bringing together the country's top hunter ponies, the U.S. Hunter Jumper Association invites members with young hunter ponies to enter the next big pony championship, the USHJA Young Hunter Pony Championships, which will be held at the World Equestrian Center in Wilmington, Ohio, on September 30, 2018. Entries are currently open for these exciting championships specifically designed for ponies 7 years old and younger .
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The USHJA Young Hunter Pony Championships are open to ponies 7 years old and under. Credit: Louise Taylor/USHJA
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"We are excited that these Championships will celebrate the many exceptional young hunter ponies in our sport," said Oliver Brown, chair of the USHJA Young Hunter Pony Ad Hoc Committee. "Our pony breeders are dedicated and committed to producing the very best hunter ponies, and we look forward to these championships providing them with a wonderful avenue for showcasing and developing that talent."
The USHJA Young Hunter Pony Championships will offer the following sections: Hunter Pony 4 & 5 Year Olds 2', Hunter Pony 4 & 5 Year Olds 2'3", Hunter Pony 6 & 7 Year Olds 2', Hunter Pony 6 & 7 Year Olds 2'3" and Hunter Pony 6 & 7 Year Olds 2'6" (exhibitor's choice) to be made up of one model, one under saddle class and two over fences classes. An under saddle class for 5 Year Olds & Under for ponies not competing in the 4 & 5 Year Olds over fences classes will also be offered.
"In considering the class offerings, flexibility of junior rider age, location and timing of the Championships, we really wanted these championships to support our breeders and provide a top notch competition for these young ponies," continued Brown. "All of the classes are exhibitor's choice, so exhibitors can find the section that is most appropriate for their pony."
The Championships aim to develop the Hunter Breeding sport and create opportunities for current and new owners, breeders and handlers to showcase talented young hunter pony prospects. USHJA extends special thanks to the USHJA Young Hunter Pony Ad Hoc Committee for leading the development of this opportunity: Oliver Brown, Karan Aurelius, Robin Greenwood, Patty Rogers and Drew Taylor.
