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An Overview of the North American Junior/Young Rider Championships
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Photo by Julia Borysewicz
The North American Junior/Young Rider Championships (NAJYRC) took place at the Kentucky Horse Park this weekend, July 21st through the 26th. Sacramento area resident Genay Vaughn and her horse, Waranja, were on the Junior Rider team for USDF Region 7.
The NAJYRC was founded in 1974 as a challenge for young Eventing riders in the United States and Canada. The even grew in popularity until first Dressage was added in 1981, then Show Jumping in 1982. In 2008, Reining was added, finally bringing a western discipline to the mix. In 2009, Endurance and Vaulting were added as exhibition matches. More countries were invited to participate over the years, and now riders hail from Bermuda, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and the Caribbean Islands as well as the United States and Canada.
The NAJYR is now the premiere competition for equestrians aged 14 to 21 and the only FEI International Championships held in North America. Riders must compete in special classes at events in their region (for Dressage) or zone (for jumping) to earn a spot on the team.
NAJYRC Competition Format
Riders at the NAJYRC compete first in a team competition, where each team member’s score is combined and their total is compared to the other teams to determine placing, and then in individual competitions. In each class, medals are given to the top three places, just like the Olympics: Gold for first, Silver for second and Bronze for third. Depending on the event, riders are required to participate in several rounds of competition.
Spectators at the NAJYRC
Spectators are welcome and encouraged at the NAJYRC. Audience members get to see some spectacular horsemanship from the equestrian stars of tomorrow. There are also many vendors on the grounds where horse lovers can purchase nearly anything to satisfy their passion.
Although the competition was held at the Kentucky Horse Park this year, it has been held in numerous locations throughout North America.
The North American Junior/Young Rider Championships is a highly prestigious competition, with many of its winners going on to successful careers in the industry.
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