Slideshow: 2012 North American Junior and Young Rider Championships

From July 17-22, the top youth equestrians from the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean Islands competed at the Adequan/FEI North American Junior and Young Rider Championships (NAJYRC). Junior riders (ages 14-18) and young riders (ages 18-21) competed in show jumping, dressage, eventing, reining and endurance. This year, vaulting was also included as a non-championship event.

For many rising equestrian stars, the NAJYRC is a first experience in the world of international competition, one that can be a stepping stone to the top levels for the sport. Several prominent Olympians and World Equestrian Games competitors have NAJYRC experience on their resumes, including McLain Ward, Karen O’Connor, Reed Kessler, Will Coleman and Adrienne Lyle.

Check out a few of the photo highlights of the 2012 NAJYRC at the Kentucky Horse Park.

Further Reading
Events conclude at the 2012 NAJYRC
Endurance headlines the third day of NAJYRC competition in Kentucky
Team reining medals awarded on the second day of NAJYRC competition
U.S. Region 5 young riders and Quebec junior riders win gold at NAJYRC
Six Facts about the North American Junior and Young Rider Championships