Kym K. Smith Returns as Title Sponsor for 2022 Kym K. Smith/USHJA Young Hunter Pony Championships

Lexington, Ky.—Jan. 24, 2022—The U.S. Hunter Jumper Association is pleased to announce that Kym K. Smith will be returning for the fourth year as title sponsor of the 2022 Kym K. Smith/USHJA Young Hunter Pony Championships. Now in its fifth year, the Championship will take place August 26-28, 2022, alongside the Sallie B. Wheeler/USEF/USHJA Hunter Breeding National Championships - East Coast at the Virginia Young Horse Festival at the Virginia Horse Center in Lexington, Virginia.

The Kym K. Smith/USHJA Young Hunter Pony Championships aim to develop the Hunter Breeding sport and create opportunities for current and new owners, breeders and handlers to showcase talented young Hunter pony prospects. Since inception, the Kym K. Smith/USHJA Young Hunter Pony Championship has experienced vast growth with 345% increase in total competing entries. Total entries increased by 60% and first-time participants increased 61% for 2021. 

"I am beyond thrilled to be coming back as title sponsor for 2022 Young Hunter Pony Championships," said Smith. "The kids, the ponies, everyone makes these championships like no other."

The Championship offers ponies aged 4 through 7 to compete at heights of 2' to 2'6" in sections made up of one model, two over fences classes and one under saddle class.  A division for ponies 5 and under not competing over fences is also offered. Returning for the second year is the Adults on Ponies division which consists of one under saddle, two over fences, and one model class and is open to Professional or Amateur riders at their choice of 2', 2'3", or 2'6".

For more information about the Kym K. Smith/USHJA Young Hunter Pony Championships, visit ushja.org/YHPC.

Photo: SAS Equine Photography