The USEA Young Event Horse Program (YEH) began in 2004 as a pilot program and is best described as an eventing talent search. YEH's first season as an official program of the USEA was 2005, and the program's goal is to identify young horses that possesses the talent and disposition that, with proper training, can excel in the uppermost levels of eventing. While the ultimate aim is to identify the future four-star horses, many fine event horses who will excel at the lower levels will also be showcased.
The Program gives owners and breeders the opportunity to showcase the potential of their four- and five-year-old horses while encouraging the breeding and development of top-level event horses for the future. Classes focus on education and preparation of the event horse in a correct and progressive manner. YEH Rules and Guidelines may be found here.
At qualifying events, youngsters are asked to complete two sections:
At Championships, youngsters are asked to complete three sections:
4-year-old classes are for horses attaining four years of age in the current calendar year. 5-year-old classes are for horses attaining five years of age in the current calendar year.
*As of 2018: The "bye-year" policy for mares that have had term foals has been removed. There will be no more allowance for the "bye-year" and all horses must compete in their respective age groups.
East Coast Championships: October 14-15, 2021 at the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill, Elkton, MD
West Coast Championships: October 29-30, 2021 at Twin Rivers Ranch in Paso Robles, CA
Qualifications: In 2021, on the East Coast, horses must earn one score of a 75% or higher at any YEH qualifier event to be eligible for the East Coast Championships. To be eligible for the West Coast Championships, horses must earn one score of a 70% or higher at any YEH qualifier event.
If you are interested in hosting a USEA Young Event Horse competition or have questions about the program, please contact Kate Lokey, (703) 779-9897.