2026 ANRC National Equitation Championships Overview:
The ANRC National Equitation Championships are traditionally held on the second or third week in April. The championships are a competition for collegiate, junior, and adult amateur teams. The championships are held the same weekend and judged separately. In each championship, teams may compete in a 3′ National Division or a 2’6 Novice Division. Participants may compete on a school-owned horse, a leased horse, or a privately owned horse. A college, high school, or private organization may enter more than one team in each division. Teams consist of 2-3 riders. In the case of a team of three, the lowest competition score for that team is dropped in each phase.
The championships begin with stabling open and teams arriving with horses to prepare for competition. Prior to arrival, entered teams have been assigned scheduled schooling sessions in each competition area. This practice time gives coaches, riders, and horses a chance to become familiar with each venue. Informal gatherings are held in the evenings to promote camaraderie among teams. Regular coaches meetings are held to ask questions, and review competition rules with steward and competition manager.
Championship Format:
The competition is judged and scored on equitation skills and sound horsemanship practices. The highest score in each phase will be awarded to the rider who demonstrates excellence in equitation and produces a smooth, cooperative performance exemplifying quality hunter movement both on the flat and over fences. The scores are added to produce both individual and team standings. The four phases are described below with a sample video of each mounted phase.
- A Written test based on riding theory and a selected stable management topic worth 5% of the total score
- A Flat Phase (includes USEF Hunter Equitation Tests) worth 35% of the total score
- An Equitation Derby Course (natural jumps in a field) worth 30% of the total score
- A Hunter Seat Equitation Medal Course worth 30% of the total score
Throughout the year, coaches are encouraged to incorporate forward riding theory and sound stable management practices to improve the rider’s mounted and unmounted horsemanship skills. Students are encouraged to set personal goals as well as team goals, study ANRC materials, practice fundamentals, and apply knowledge.
The primary goal of ANRC is to promote the American System of Forward Riding. This system is based on the idea that the rider’s position or seat, control, and schooling of the horse are integral parts. The training objectives seek to develop the horse’s agility and strength under the weight of the rider, and achieve balance of the horse independently of the rider’s aids. Emphasis is placed on the rider’s ability to achieve a cooperative performance, allowing the horse to move forward freely with connected movement, while remaining calm and alert.
For more information about the ANRC National Championships, please contact Justine Betzler, ANRC Chair, at justinebetzler@gmail.com