Flintfields Horse Park welcomes back North America’s top young equestrian athletes.
Traverse City Horse Shows will host the 2026 FEI North American Youth Championships for jumping and dressage, July 28–August 2. Recognized as North America’s top youth equestrian event, the championships bring together Children, Pre-Junior, Junior, Young Rider, and U25 athletes for the continent’s only annual FEI youth championship.
For many riders, NAYC is their first championship experience and a significant milestone in their equestrian careers. The team competition, multi-day format, and high-pressure environment each reflect senior international sport. NAYC launches future professionals and builds lasting friendships.
Hosting NAYC during the 13-week summer season strengthens Traverse City’s position on the North American development calendar. Athletes benefit from a consistent, high-performance environment that emphasizes preparation, mentorship, and community throughout the summer.
“Championships like NAYC are about more than medals,” said Event Director Matt Morrissey. “They prepare the next generation for the highest levels of the sport. Providing that stage—within a venue built for consistency and long-format competition—is something we take seriously.”
With FEI team competitions, CSI5* events, and youth championships on the calendar, Traverse City serves as a summer base where athletes at all levels can train, compete, and progress. Families, coaches, and supporters all share in the season’s defining moments.
The four-week Spring Series schedule is now available, and the six-week Great Lakes Equestrian Festival will be announced soon. We encourage you to secure your spot and plan your summer in Traverse City early.
Jumpers
(Weekly Purses)
$181,200 4* 1.55m Grand Prix (Spring II & IV)
$116,500 3* 1.50m Grand Prix (Spring I & III)
$20,000 1.40m-1.45m Open Jumper
$10,000 1.40m-1.45m Jr/Am Classic
$7,500 1.30m-1.35m Jr/Am Classic
$5,000 1.20m-1.25m Jr/Am Classic
$5,000 1.35m Open
$3,500 1.10m-1.15m Jr/Am Classic
Hunters
(Championships +
Weekly Purses)
$32,000 USHJA Green Incentive Regional Championships (SP II)
$25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby Regional Championships (SP II)
$10,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby Open
$10,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby Non Pro
$1,500 USHJA 2’6” National Hunter Derby Non Pro
Equitation
(The Road to the Finals)
$100,000 Traverse City 3’6” Equitation Finals Qualifier (Weekly)
$50,000 Traverse City 3’3” Equitation Finals Qualifier (Weekly)
$10,000 Traverse City Adult Equitation Challenge (SP III)
HJAM Medals (Weekly)
The post NAYC Returns to Traverse City in 2026 appeared first on Traverse City Horse Shows.
