TurnoutHQ+ Newsroom · Published May 1, 2026 · Updated September 8, 2026
Key Takeaway
Youth dressage and jumping athletes must note that qualifying periods for the 2026 NAYC have already begun, with critical application deadlines approaching in early 2026.
What Happened
US Equestrian (USEF) has issued a formal reminder regarding application deadlines and qualifying windows for the 2026 FEI North American Youth Championships (NAYC). The event, which serves as a premier international championship for youth riders in dressage and jumping, is scheduled to take place at Flintfields Horse Park in Traverse City, Michigan, from July 27 through August 2, 2026.
While the event is still over a year away, the qualification periods have already begun for both disciplines. Athletes wishing to represent their region or zone must submit formal applications through either the United States Dressage Federation (USDF) or the USEF Athlete Dashboard, depending on their discipline and age division.
Why It Matters
For aspiring high-performance riders, the NAYC is often the first introduction to a "Team USA" environment. The competition mimics the format of senior international championships, including the Olympic Games, featuring team and individual medals, horse inspections, and multi-day formats.
The early announcement of these deadlines is vital for planning a competition season. Because Traverse City is a high-demand summer tourist destination, USEF is urging families and trainers to book accommodations immediately. Furthermore, the qualifying periods are and long, meaning results earned this year directly impact eligibility for the 2026 championships. For jumping riders specifically, the "Certificate of Capability" requirement adds an extra layer of compliance that must be managed alongside competition results.
Discipline Context
The NAYC impacts two major Olympic disciplines with specific age and height requirements:
Dressage:
- Qualifying Period: July 22, 2025, June 22, 2026.
- Application Deadline: May 4, 2026.
- Divisions: Children, Junior, Young Rider, and U25.
Jumping:
- Qualifying Period: September 1, 2025, May 31, 2026.
- Application Deadline: June 1, 2026.
- Divisions: Children (1.25m), Pre-Junior (1.30m), Junior (1.40m), and Young Rider (1.50m).
Quick Facts
- Event: 2026 FEI North American Youth Championships (NAYC)
- Location: Traverse City, Michigan
- Dates: July 27, August 2, 2026
- Governing Bodies: USEF, USDF (Dressage), USHJA (Jumping), and FEI
- Travel Discounts: Delta Air Lines is offering meeting event codes (NY4JR) for travel to Traverse City (TVC) or Grand Rapids (GRR).
- Dressage Application Portal: USDF website (Children/Junior/YR) or USEF Dashboard (U25).
- Jumping Application Portal: USEF Athlete Dashboard.
Riders who want to talk this through with others can join TurnoutHQ community groups.