The countdown to the 2009 Adequan FEI North American Junior/Young Rider Championships presented by Gotham North (NAJYRC) has begun in earnest. For the first time, the NAJYRC will be held at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY – which in 2010 will play host to the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. This year's NAJYRC will be held July 21-26, 2009.

Since 1979, these Championships showcase the best young rider and junior horse/rider combinations in the three Olympic disciplines of Dressage, Eventing and Jumping. In 2008, the Western discipline of Reining was added, bringing the best young athletes, ages 14-21, in four of the most exciting Equestrian disciplines together for the first time.

The Dressage Championships bring out the country's best Juniors and Young Riders and 2009 promises not to disappoint. Dressage will again be sponsored by Platinum Performance and the United States Dressage Federation

For more information about the Dressage Championships, and the selection procedures, visit the USDF Web site. 

The Eventing Championships have always enjoyed the support of the US Eventing Association, and this year is no different. For information and selection information about these Championships, visit the USEF Web site.

Jumping has a new title sponsor: CN – whose dedication to the program has proved invaluable (they have served as a title sponsor for the entire event since 2005) – continues with the Jumping sponsorship in 2009. The United States Hunter Jumper Association moves from title to presenting sponsor. For information and Jumping Selection procedures, visit the USEF Web site.

Reining returns to the Championships for the second year in 2009. Hugely popular in 2008, it will thrive again this year with the sponsorship of SmartPak Equine. The selection procedures for Reining are being finalized and will be on the following page on the USEF website shortly. 

Hagyard will be the Official Veterinary Services Provider to the NAJYRC, and is generously providing treating veterinary coverage to all four disciplines. Hagyard Equine Medical is located directly across the street from the Kentucky Horse Park.

A non-Championship FEI CEI** competition will be held in conjunction with the NAJYRC. The Endurance event will be held July 22-26, 2009 in Henryville, Indiana. For more information regarding endurance, please email Vonita Bowers .

A Vaulting demonstration will also be held for Juniors and Young Riders, stay tuned for more details as the schedule is confirmed.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available; please contact Scott Carling for more information.

Vendor spaces are available too; please contact Joanie Morris or at 859.225.2052 for an application or general information regarding the event.

Lots of information is available on the NAJYRC Website, including information regarding hotels and camping. Please check frequently for updates and important information.

Founded in 1973, the United States Dressage Federation is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to education, recognition of achievement, and promotion of dressage. For more information about USDF membership or programs, visit www.usdf.org, email [email protected], or call (859) 971-2277.