Lexington, Ky. - The application deadline for the 2017 U.S. Saddle Seat Young Riders Team to compete at the U.S. Test Event to be held April 3-6, 2017 in Perry, Georgia has been extended to September 1, 2016 after confirmation that there will not be a 2017 Test Event in South Africa. 

The purpose of the Young Riders Team is to develop athletes for future International Saddle Seat Equitation World Cup competitions. During years that the International Saddle Seat Equitation World Cup is not held, Test Events allow members of the Young Riders Team to represent the United States in international competition. The team will consist of six athletes for both the three- and five-gaited sections.

Unlike the selection process for the U.S. Saddle Seat World Cup Team, riders will not have to attend live tryouts to be selected for the U.S. Saddle Seat Equitation Young Riders Team. Instead, selection will be based on an application and riding video.

Please visit the U.S. Saddle Seat Young Riders page for a copy of the 2017 selection criteria and tips for applicants. It is important to thoroughly read all sections prior to commencing the application process as there are requirements and commitments that must be met to be considered.

For more information on the 2017 U.S. Saddle Seat Young Riders Team, please contact any of the following National Affiliates staff members:

Lori Nelson, [email protected]
Terra Schroeder, [email protected]
Jennifer Mellenkamp, [email protected]
Erin DesNoyers, [email protected]