The Youth Team Challenge competition PDFinformation is on the left.The format is similar to the USDF/Region 9 Youth Team Regional Championships, in that there are suggested divisions and riders choose which two tests from a list of paired tests they will ride. In addition to dressage tests the teams may have un-mounted or mounted tests in which the team chooses a member to represent them. The additional “test” suggestions will vary from games to informational “tests” all that show horsemanship and team spirit. An un-mounted additional team member called the Horse Manager may enter to help team members as much as possible to be on time by aiding with the horse care and rider readiness. The Horse Manager does not go into the arena, do not take tests and they receive the same team (individual) award as the team.
The Team Challenge has teams of two and three plus and optional Horse Manager.
This PDF format is used so that the teams may expect continuity when going around the region.
The goal of the Youth Team Challenge is to expose more youth to dressage and to present Dressage in a format that allows team participation and sportsmanship in a fun and “championship” atmosphere.

Ribbons and metals will be supplied free to approved competitions with timely paperwork. There will be no monetary grants for the shows. The dressage tests portion will be judged by judges approved from the “L” program and up. At this time the Challenges are not designed to be held at a recognized show. The schooling competitions should not loose money and are easier to run and less expensive than recognized shows. The format can be used inside a recognized show but is of course more expensive for the teams and the show management as extra class ribbons must be awarded and an “r” or above judge is required. USEF Recognized shows must follow strict rules and regulations.
If you wish to use the format to have your very own youth team shows by all means please do. If this is the case you will not be eligible to receive free ribbons and medals or be able to use the Youth Team Challenge name; but, I will still be happy to list the show as a club event and publish news reports. Names such as the ODS Kids Team Fling or the NCC Youth Team Festival are unrecognized possibilities and ODS Kids Fling Youth Team Challenge and NCC Festival Youth Team Challenge would be recognized show name possibilities. The Youth of Region 9 need all the growing opportunities we can give them.