Frequently Asked Questions

What fees are involved in the program?

Application fee: $75
Emerging Athletes Program Regional Training Session fee: $750

Application fee is non-refundable.

Fees remitted to host facility: Stall fees. Additional fees may include feed, bedding and early arrival fees, if necessary. (Rider acceptance packets will contain additional information about any fees charged by the host facility of the session to which they applied)

Travel costs for horse and rider: Responsibility of the Emerging Athlete

Gaining the opportunity to advance your education in your pursuit to become a knowledgeable horseman: Priceless

Fees for hosting a Regional Training Session: host facility will provide, at its own expense, full use of the grounds and facilities, including all necessary personnel, sanitary facilities, equipment, jumps, seating, communication equipment and all necessary insurance.

How do I check the status of my application?

You can view the status of your EAP application on your EAP Regional Clinic Dashboard. To access your dashboard, log into your USHJA Member Account. Near the bottom of the page, in the Emerging Athletes Program section under Member Programs and Opportunities, click “EAP Regional Clinic Dashboard.” Your dashboard will show the status of each component of your application (application form, Horsemanship Quiz Challenge, and three recommendations). Once all components have been submitted, the dashboard will indicate that your application is complete.

Do all EAP riders begin at the Regional Training Sessions?

All riders who apply and are accepted to the EAP first participate in a Regional Training Session. Invitations to the National Training Session are based on the riding, stable-management skills, written-test results and potential shown during the Regional Training Session.

What is the difference between the .90m and 1.0m section?

All Regional Training Sessions will offer two height sections, .90m and 1.0m. Riders are encouraged to apply to the height section that best matches their and their horse’s capabilities. Riders in both sections will receive the same riding and stable management training, and riders from either section may be selected to participate in the National Training Session, provided they meet the eligibility requirements and select on the application form that they would like to be considered for the National Training Session.

Is this program for jumper riders only?

The program is open to any hunter/jumper rider who is proficient at completing a jumper-style course at .90m or higher. Although the courses and fences are set in a jumper style, the program is focused on promoting complete horsemanship and rider competency. The techniques, stable management, horsemanship and overall lessons learned in the program can carry into the hunter, equitation and jumper rings combined.

Do I provide my own horse for the Regional Training Sessions?

Emerging Athletes are responsible for providing their own horses for the Regionals, and the horse should be comfortable jumping a course at the height to which the rider applies (.90m or 1.0m). The USHJA National Training Session Host Facility provides all horses for the riders who are invited to the National Training Session.

Are meals provided for the riders?

Meals are not provided during the Regional Training Sessions for participants or guests. There is a scheduled lunch break on each day during which time riders may leave to purchase lunch, but riders are encouraged to bring a packed lunch/snacks.

May a rider bring a guest to the Regional and National Training Session?

The Emerging Athlete may bring one guest at no charge to the Regional and National Training Session. This may be a parent/guardian, trainer, friend, et cetera. Additional guests may be asked to pay a nominal auditing fee determined by the host facility. Any auditing fees will be outlined in the rider acceptance packet.

If I am not riding in the Regional or National Training Session, may I audit?

The opportunity to attend the Regional and the National Training Session varies each year with the capability of the host facilities to accommodate all interested auditors. Please contact the host facilities for the current year's auditing policy.

How is the program winner determined, and what prize do they receive?

The winner is determined by the Emerging Athletes Program Committee, based on the clinicians’ observations and evaluations at each Regional Training Session and the National Training Session. The winner receives a $3,000 grant to apply toward the cost of advanced training with an approved trainer.

If a rider is not accepted into the EAP or does not advance to the National Training Session, may they apply to the program again the following year?

Yes. USHJA encourages all riders to continue their riding and horsemanship education through various avenues, such as the EAP. Riders who have previously been invited to the Regional Training Session or the National Training Session may apply to the EAP Regional Training Session the following year, as long as they continue to meet the eligibility requirements.

How can I donate to the program?

Donations to the EAP can be made through the USHJA Foundation. When contributing, please specify that you would like your donation to go toward the EAP.